Driving innovation in next-generation technology for food and general manufacturing industries
Worker Safety Research
Worker Safety Research
Contact Doug Britton-doug.britton@gtri.gatech.edu
Musculoskeletal Injury Risk Assessment System: Researchers, in conjunction with the Liberty Mutual Research Institute for Safety, have developed an Ergonomic Work Assessment System (EWAS) designed to help the poultry industry reduce muskuloskeletal injuries associated with the wrist. EWAS measures posture, grip force, and muscle exertion of a worker while cutting tasks are performed on a poultry deboning line. A large-scale study is planned involving participants from several plants with varying levels of experience and expertise. This study tested the capabilities of the system and began to lay the foundation for the development of new employee training programs and improved worker rotation schemes. The impact of fatigue on a worker's posture and exertion and the effect on overall yield is also being investigated.
PI: Sim Harbert, 404-407-8831, sim.harbert@gtri.gatech.edu