Evaluation of impact loading in overhead work using a bolt pistol support.

Area of Science:

• Occupational health and safety
• Biomechanics
• Ergonomics

Background:

• Repetitive impact loading from bolt guns can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome.
• Existing protective measures may not fully mitigate shock transmission.
• The need for effective solutions to reduce occupational hazards in construction and industrial settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a bolt gun support stand in reducing impact loading.
• To quantify the shock damping effects on the hand-arm system.
• To assess the influence of the support stand on acceleration transmitted to skeletal structures.

Main Methods:

• Ten healthy male subjects participated in the study.
• Subjects fired spiked bolts into a steel beam using a bolt gun, both with and without a support stand.
• Shock sequences were recorded using accelerometers placed on the subjects.

Main Results:

• Peak acceleration values were reduced more than eightfold when using the bolt gun support stand.
• Significant shock damping effects were observed at the metacarpal (thumb) and elbow bones.
• The support stand demonstrated a substantial reduction in impact forces transmitted through the arm.

Conclusions:

• A bolt gun support stand is highly effective in mitigating impact loading on the hand-arm system.
• The device provides significant shock absorption, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.
• Implementation of this support stand can enhance worker safety in environments utilizing bolt guns.