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A comparative study of two shovel designs.
A Degani1, S S Asfour, S M Waly
1NASA AMES Research Center, M.S. 262-4, Moffett Field, CA 94035, USA.
Applied Ergonomics
|October 1, 1993
Summary
A new two-shaft shovel design significantly reduces muscle strain and perceived exertion during digging tasks. This ergonomic innovation lessens the load on lumbar paraspinal muscles, improving comfort and potentially preventing injury.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics and Biomechanics
- Occupational Health and Safety
Background:
- Traditional shovel designs can lead to significant strain on the lumbar paraspinal muscles.
- Assessing the ergonomic impact of tool design is crucial for preventing musculoskeletal injuries in manual labor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate a modified two-shaft shovel design.
- To compare the biomechanical and perceived exertion effects of the modified shovel against a regular shovel.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory testing using surface electromyography (EMG) on lumbar paraspinal muscles.
- Field study incorporating ratings of perceived exertion (RPE).
- Comparison of biomechanical load and subjective effort during digging tasks up to 90 cm depth.
Main Results:
- Significant reduction in EMG activity in the lumbar paraspinal muscles when using the modified shovel.
- Consistent decrease in perceived exertion ratings with the two-shaft design.
- Demonstrated ergonomic benefits for tasks involving dirt removal.
Conclusions:
- The modified two-shaft shovel design offers a biomechanically advantageous alternative to traditional shovels.
- This design can effectively reduce physical strain and perceived exertion, potentially mitigating injury risk.
- Ergonomic tool modifications are vital for enhancing worker well-being in manual excavation tasks.