Assessment of Musculoskeletal discomfort for mobile crane operators. (2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Baskaran, T.; Sankaranarayanasamy, K.; Gopanna, Kuruva
• Is Part Of: Materials today. Volume 46:Part 20(2021)
• Page Start: 10459
• Page End: 10463
• Publication Date: 2021
• Subjects: Discomfort -- Ergonomics -- Mobile crane -- Musculoskeletal disorders -- Shift Intervals; Materials science -- Congresses -- Periodicals; 620.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2020.12.1097
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-7853

Abstract

Abstract: Workers seated in mobile cranes and operating for a prolonged period with an awkward posture are facing various ergonomic problems in the different body parts and particularly in the lower back. The research study purpose is to find an association of discomfort with the mobile crane operations. A discomfort study was carried out in a heavy equipment manufacturing industry where most of the mobile crane operators are continuously suffering from musculoskeletal discomfort in different body parts. Discomfort information was obtained with the help of a body part discomfort questionnaire during the various shift intervals from the start to the end of the shift. A total of 30 mobile crane operators of age from 21 to 59 years were made to participate. The study results reveals that, among the 30 mobile crane operators, 83.3% of operators reported discomfort in the lower back, and 20.0% reported in the upper back. In other parts, 23.3% to 63.3% of operators reported discomfort. Considering the severity level of discomfort reported by the operators, the highest discomfort is seen in the lower back and neck region. The operator's age also has a significant influence on body discomfort sensed by mobile crane operators. Concluded that the main effected body parts are lower back and neck and the risk factors that may cause this discomfort are an awkward posture and whole-body vibration.