Where do exoskeletons fit in the hierarchy of controls?

The effectiveness of controls in the workplace are often described in terms of where they rank on the hierarchy of controls. At the top of the hierarchy (most effective risk control), we have elimination, followed by substitution, engineering controls, and administrative controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) at the lower end (least effective). 

Exoskeletons are wearable devices that interact with the body to improve physical capabilities; however, they do not reduce the risk factors present within the workplace. Since there is no impact on workplace MSI risk factors (see section 4.49 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation), exoskeletons should be considered as PPE, which is at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls.   

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