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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
12:18
An Instrumented Pull Test to Characterize Postural Responses
Published on: April 6, 2019
Ergonomic study of a vertical rope-pulling task from a scaffolding.
1Department of Industrial Engineering and Management Information, Huafan University1, Shihtin Hsiang, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan, Republic of China. spwu@huafan.hfu.edu.tw
Ergonomics
|March 4, 2008
Summary
Manual material handling in vertical rope-pulling tasks (VRPS) is optimized using hemp or nylon ropes without gloves. These conditions significantly increase maximum acceptable rope-pulling weight (MAWR) and reduce perceived exertion.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics
- Occupational Safety
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Manual material handling (MMH) is a major cause of workplace injuries.
- Vertical rope-pulling tasks (VRPS) present unique ergonomic challenges.
- Optimizing VRPS can reduce musculoskeletal disorder risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess manual material handling problems in VRPS.
- To investigate factors affecting maximum acceptable rope-pulling weight (MAWR).
- To evaluate the impact of rope characteristics and gloves on exertion.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the psychophysical method with 25 young male Chinese subjects.
- Investigated effects of rope material, diameter, object size, and glove use.
- Measured MAWR, rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and heart rate.
Main Results:
- MAWR significantly increased with hemp rope, coarser diameter, smaller object size, and no gloves.
- RPE was significantly influenced by rope material, object size, and glove use.
- Heart rate showed no significant changes across conditions.
Conclusions:
- Hemp rope and no gloves offer the best VRPS conditions for higher MAWR.
- Ergonomic interventions should consider rope properties and glove use.
- Arms, fingers, and wrists are the most stressed body parts during VRPS.
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