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Elements of the workplace system To effectively introduce exoskeletons in the workplace, it’s important to consider the interactions between the five key elements that make up the workplace system: the worker, the task, the tools and equipment (exoskeleton), the organization, and the environment. This holistic approach ensures a thorough evaluation and considers the overall impact on the work, worker safety, and worker performance. When introducing any new equipment or changes to the workplace, workers need to be involved in the process to provide feedback and perspective to ensure all aspects of the work are considered. 
Elements of the workplace system (I) - Worker, Task, and Device Worker 
Individual characteristics that vary among workers, such as physical attributes (i.e., body size, age, gender), experience levels, skills, and knowledge can affect their acceptance of exoskeletons. How the design tailors to the comfort, fit, and usability of each individual will have an impact on how receptive workers are to the exoskeleton. Fit is particularly important when it comes to the use of PPE, and exoskeletons are not an exception. Exoskeletons are not designed as one-size-fits-all, in terms of the workers using them or the task they are being used for. From a sizing perspective, exoskeletons often have a degree of adjustability; however, some research has identified that not all body types and sizes are compatible with exoskeleton designs. For example, women have been highlighted as a group that have difficulty with the fit of exoskeletons, which may affect the effectiveness and intended outcome to improve performance. As such, further refinement in adjustability and fitting for all population types may need to be considered for exoskeleton acceptance amongst workers. Task 
Benefits of exoskeletons may vary depending on how the design matches with the intended use for a job or task. Selecting the ideal exoskeleton for a job requires a systems approach that considers the interactions between other elements in the workplace system. Overlooking these interactions can introduce unintended hazards such as restricted mobility, worker discomfort, and inadequate support and fit. Matching the exoskeleton to the task or job maximizes the functionality and effectiveness of the intended design. Exoskeletons designed to reduce physical demands on one body segment or joint may inadvertently increase the physical demand on other body regions. In addition, assuming workers can safely meet higher physical demands when using an exoskeleton is risky if its effectiveness depends on how well its design and function align with the workplace demands. Consider the task demands and work being performed and whether other equipment/tools or PPE, such as fall protection, may interfere with the safety, fit, and usability of the exoskeleton. Other factors to consider when evaluating the interactions of the task, worker, and exoskeleton may include:
Device / technology 
Exoskeletons are often unique in their design for targeting specific body parts to enhance human performance. Most are designed to support a single joint or body segment; however, this doesn’t reflect the dynamic nature of work. Most work involves using multiple body parts in various movements and postures. While devices like exoskeletons can reduce muscle activity in the targeted area, they can also introduce hazards with improper use and applications. Passive exoskeletons are simpler by design and use lighter-weight structures like springs to store and release energy to aid specific body parts. In comparison, active exoskeletons are more complex and bulkier with power supplies and mechanical aids to enhance human performance. The rigidity in active exoskeleton designs can cause discomfort, friction and joint hyperextension. They can also pose a risk of injury due to poor adjustability or improper fit, making some designs unsuitable for certain body types and sizes. Factors like size, weight, and material can affect their practicality, especially in dynamic tasks and constrained work layouts requiring a range of postures and movements. Certain exoskeleton designs can also have an impact on balance, affecting the body's ability to recover from slips, trips, or falls. Careful consideration of design, user-device interactions, and task specificity during the planning or purchasing phase is crucial to maximize the benefits of exoskeletons while ensuring worker comfort and mobility. Read more
We're here to help For resources, please visit worksafebc.com/ergonomics. If you have questions about ergonomics or human factors, or need help managing the risk of MSI in your workplace, please contact us at HumanFactors@worksafebc.com | ||||||||||||
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