Ergonomical assessment using wearable motion capture system in dockworkers during lashing

Abstract

Work-related injuries involving significant physical loads are of growing concern, as these injuries can negatively impact work productivity, physical health and well-being at work, but also have economic costs due to absenteeism. This observational study aims to quantify the ergonomical assessment of dockworkers using wearable devices to reduce the risk of injuries. Two different gestures are analyzed and observed using a wearable mocap system: Task1A securing the lash bars and Task 1B as lifting and locking process. Additional tests and questionnaire were also requested: FMS, HHD, RAND-36, ODI, and TSK questionnaires. As result, it was found a large spread between the maximum and minimum degrees and the range in which they are working among the different dockworkers. Despite the large heterogeneity, we found for task 1B that the wrist was held in extreme positions, and a significant correlation was found between the time and standard deviation of the low back (R = 0.45, p = 0.045). In addition, all participants reported having complaints; 66% had kinesiophobia, 60% were overweight, and the mean score on the FMS was 15. The occurrence of fatigue, complaints, kinesiophobia, a challenging work environment, or an unhealthy lifestyle may lead to altered movement patterns, which could possibly increase the risk of injury. Based on the results, we recommend implementing a warm-up and an individualized prevention program to reduce the risk of injury.