Data collection costs in industrial environments for three occupational posture exposure assessment methods

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics
• Biomechanical Assessment

Background:

• Cost documentation for posture measurement in occupational studies is limited.
• Existing cost models for biomechanical exposure assessment are often simplistic.
• This research introduces a comprehensive cost model for occupational biomechanical studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive cost model for biomechanical exposure assessment in occupational settings.
• To quantify the monetary costs associated with different posture measurement methods.
• To evaluate the impact of various cost components and study design parameters on overall expenses.

Main Methods:

• Assessed trunk and shoulder posture in 27 aircraft baggage handlers over three shifts.
• Utilized three methods: self-report questionnaires, video observation, and full-shift inclinometer registration.
• Developed a cost model encompassing planning, administration, recruitment, equipment, training, travel, and data collection expenses.
• Performed sensitivity analyses using simulated data to assess cost drivers.

Main Results:

• Inclinometry (€66,657) was the most expensive, followed by observation (€55,369), and self-report (€36,865).
• Researchers incurred the majority (90%) of the study costs.
• Sample size, measurement scheduling, location, travel, and equipment significantly influenced total costs.

Conclusions:

• The proposed cost modeling approach aids in decision-making and planning for future occupational studies.
• Empirical data validated the cost models, highlighting their utility for assessing cost-efficiency.
• The study facilitates the design of more cost-effective biomechanical exposure assessments.