Digital Commons Network^™

Are Posture Data From Simulated Tasks Representative Of Field Conditions? Case Study For Overhead Electric Utility Workers, Cristiane Shinohara Moriguichi, Leticia Carnaz, Luiz Carlos De Miranda Jr, Richard W. Marklin, Helenice Jane Cote Gil Coury

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Research and Publications

Many ergonomics studies are conducted in laboratory-simulated work environments to assess risks for the development of musculoskeletal disorders under more controlled conditions. However, the simulated conditions could be of questionable validity with respect to reproduction of field conditions involving risk factors. The objective of this study was to verify whether the postures recorded for neck extension/flexion and upper arm elevation of overhead electric utility workers in a simulated environment were similar to those recorded in a field environment. Of the three frequently performed tasks analysed, two presented similar exposure in both conditions. However, differences were identified for a more complex …