Elements of the workplace system (II) - Organizatinal Management and Environment

Organizational Management

Organizational management is needed to plan, coordinate, and oversee the successful implementation of exoskeletons in the workplace. The initial procurement of exoskeletons should consider the worker, the task/job, and the design of the exoskeletons to best ensure effective and safe implementation.

Depending on the degree and ease of adjustability, workers may also require additional time to clean and adjust the fit of the exoskeletons before use. In addition, consider what maintenance is required to use the exoskeleton, such as repairs of wear and tear, frequency of part replacement, energy sources for charging, battery life and replacement, and preventative maintenance programs. All these factors may have short- and long-term effects on productivity that should be accounted for during the procurement process as well as future scheduling and planning of work.

For effective implementation of exoskeletons, consider what communication, procedures, resources (i.e., time and cost), training, inventory, and storage capacity within the workplace is necessary. In addition, a critical step for organizational management is involving workers in each step of the implementation process.

Environment

Consider the different environments in which the exoskeleton may be used, and how that may affect worker safety, equipment functioning, and life of the exoskeleton.

As these devices may be utilized in a variety of industries, environments may vary significantly.

Consider the following:

• Is there debris/dust that may impact the exoskeleton’s performance?
• Is there debris/dust, chemicals, heat, vibration, or cold in the work environment that would damage or increase wear and tear on exoskeletons? This may affect the maintenance requirements and overall lifespan of the equipment.
• Are there hygienic concerns that need to be considered in the environment exoskeletons are being worn?
• Do work environments require decontamination of equipment?

Wearing an exoskeleton may affect a worker’s ability to maintain comfort and thermal balance. Exoskeletons add a layer of insulation and reduce exposed skin, which can have an impact on comfort and the body’s ability to cool itself. In addition to insulating and reducing cooling ability, active exoskeletons may produce heat and further elevate a worker’s heat exposure. Based on this information, one must evaluate the suitability of using these devices in hot environments.

As technology of these devices continues to evolve, the impact of environmental factors on worker safety and the life of the devices may change.

Read more

• What are occupational exoskeletons?
• Where do exoskeletons fit in the hierarchy of controls?
• Elements of the workplace system (I) - Worker, Task, and Device/Technology
• Elements of the workplace system (II) - Organizational Management and Environment
• The future of exoskeletons: long-term applications in the field
• Events, webinars, and resources

---

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