An ergonomic evaluation of excavating operations: a pilot study.

Previous studies indicate that oper­ ators of heavy construction equipment are aff icted by musculoskeletal injuries of the arms, shoulders, neck, and lower back. These injuries appear to be due to excessive periods of sitting (static posture), work intensity, whole-body vi­ bration, high resistance levers, repetitive motions, and awkward postures.2 5) Al­ though numerous studies have shown an association between operation of heavy construction equipment and symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders, very little research has been performed that sys­ tematically characterizes operating engi­ neers’ exposure to ergonomic hazards. The objective of this study was to sys­ tematically characterize the ergonomic hazards associated with excavating op­ erations. As such, the following were performed: (1) vibrationsweremeasured at the operator/seat interface (X, Y, and Z axes), and at the f oor of the cab (Z axis); (2) psychophysical ratings of whole-body vibration (WBV) level and overall seat design were obtained; and (3) postural assessments of the job were made.