Subjective Evaluation of Passive Back-Support Exoskeleton for Flooring Work
Omobolanle Ogunseiju, Nihar Gonsalves, Abiola Akanmu, Chukwuma Nnaji
Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are a major concern in the construction industry. The back is the most commonly affected body part, accounting for about 43% of construction cases. To reduce back loading, exoskeletons has been introduced in the workplace. Back-support exoskeletons are potential interventions to reduce physical demands on the back. Successful application of the exoskeleton will require an assessment of user acceptance and comfort with the device. The objectives of the study were to capture subjective evaluations of the impacts of exoskeleton use, including usability and discomfort. The participants perceived the exoskeleton as user-friendly, by providing moderate-to-high ratings of ease-of-use and ease-of-learning, and reduced time for donning and doffing. Using the exoskeleton reduced discomfort in the lower leg, lower back, and thigh by 28%, 21.74%, and 3.13% respectively, suggesting the potential of the exoskeleton for reducing low back injuries amongst floorers. However, an increase of discomfort in the chest region (111.11%) reveals the unintended consequence of the exoskeleton. Overall, the exoskeleton has the potential of being accepted as an intervention for flooring work. Future work is needed to better assess the exoskeleton among actual construction workers.