Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 21, 2026

Automatic Laser-based Geometry Capture for Finite Element Analysis of Weld Beads
Published on: July 25, 2025
Analysis of workers' compensation claims data for machine-related injuries in metal fabrication businesses
Samuel C Yamin1, Anca Bejan1, David L Parker1
1HealthPartners Institute, Bloomington, Minnesota.
Background:
Metal fabrication workers are at high risk for machine-related injury. Apart from amputations, data on factors contributing to this problem are generally absent.
Methods:
Narrative text analysis was performed on workers' compensation claims in order to identify machine-related injuries and determine work tasks involved. Data were further evaluated on the basis of cost per claim, nature of injury, and part of body.
Results:
From an initial set of 4,268 claims, 1,053 were classified as machine-related. Frequently identified tasks included machine operation (31%), workpiece handling (20%), setup/adjustment (15%), and removing chips (12%). Lacerations to finger(s), hand, or thumb comprised 38% of machine-related injuries; foreign body in the eye accounted for 20%. Amputations were relatively rare but had highest costs per claim (mean $21,059; median $11,998).
Conclusions:
Despite limitations, workers' compensation data were useful in characterizing machine-related injuries. Improving the quality of data collected by insurers would enhance occupational injury surveillance and prevention efforts. Am. J. Ind. Med. 59:656-664, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Related Concept Videos
Machines
A free-body diagram of the...
Machines: Problem Solving I
The toggle clamp system is a machine structure consisting of movable, pin-connected multi-force members that form a stabilized system to transmit forces. The...
Mechanical Efficiency of Real Machines
However, in reality, no machine can be truly ideal, and all of them experience some...
Steel Manufacturing
During this smelting process, limestone plays a crucial role by forming slag. Slag captures impurities within the molten iron, such...
Yield Criteria for Ductile Materials under Plane Stress
The Maximum Shearing Stress Criterion, also known as...
Machines: Problem Solving II

