Documents materials handling 43 results

"Forty-five manual material handlers (15 females, 15 expert males and 15 novice males) performed series of box transfers under conditions similar to those of large distribution centers. The objective of the study was to verify whether sex differences in joint motions and in back loading variables (L5/S1 moments) exist during multiple box transfers. The task consisted in transferring 24 15-kg boxes from one pallet to another (4 layers of boxes; 6 boxes/layer: 3 in the front row, 3 in the back) at a self-determined pace and then at an imposed pace of 9 lifts/min. Full-body 3D kinematic data were collected as well as external foot forces. A dynamic 3D linked segment model was used to estimate the net moments at L5/S1. The results show that the peak L5/S1 moment during lifting for females was significantly lower than for males, but once normalized to body size the difference disappeared. In general, the female workers were very close to the posture adopted by the novice males at the instant of the peak resultant moment. However, females were closer to the box than the male workers. One major sex difference was seen when lifting from the ground, with the use of interjoint coordination analyses. Female workers showed a sequential motion initiated by the knees, followed by the hip and the back, while expert males showed a more synchronized motion. The lifting strategy of females likely stretches lumbar spine passive tissues, which in turn put them at greater risk of back injuries. As observed in our previous studies, these differences between expert males, novice males and females are especially notable when the box is lifted from the ground."

"A rising number of companies, especially small and medium enterprises (SME), are active in the field of nanotechnology. For safe development of this industry, forethought of occupational safety and health considerations is important. This guideline on good working practice with nanomaterials addresses research institutions as well as SME industries. Four decision criteria are presented that support the reader in deriving the appropriate occupational safety measures in a comprehensible way. These occupational safety measures are tailored to the defined groups of nanomaterials and follow the precautionary approach. They comply with the priority list of the STOP principle: substitution, technical measures, organisational measures and personal protection measures."

"The potential risks from exposure to carbon nanotubes have been identified and examined in research studies. To help people work safely with carbon nanotubes, Safe Work Australia commissioned the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to develop the guidance document Safe Handling and Use of Carbon Nanotubes. The document describes two approaches to managing the risks:

- Risk management with detailed hazard analysis and exposure assessment, and

- Risk management by using Control Banding

Either or both of these methods may be used, depending on the circumstances.

The guidance in this document is applicable to other forms of carbon nanofibres, such as carbon nanorods and carbon nanowires. It is also applicable to products containing carbon nanotubes and other forms of carbon nanofibres where these nanomaterials may be released during handling."

"The objective of this study, based on an extensive dataset on manual materials handling during scaffolding, was to explore whether routinely collected company data can be used to estimate exposure to manual lifting.The number of manual lifts of scaffold parts while constructing/dismantling scaffolds was well predicted by the number of scaffolders in the team and the type of worksite, in combination with company data of either the number of scaffold parts or the scaffold volume. The proportion of explained variance in the number of lifts ranged from 77% to 92%, depending on the variables in the model. Data on scaffold parts and scaffold volume can easily be obtained from the company's administration, since this is its usual paperwork supporting logistics and customer invoicing, respectively.We conclude that company data can be a promising source of information for ergonomic practitioners and researchers, to support assessment of manual lifting in scaffolding."

"Generally it is of common knowledge that risk assessment in using hazardous or potentionally hazardous chemical substances, either the exposition itself or the risk of those materials has to be minimised. The potential danger for someone can be derived from the basic fact, that direct contact with a potentially harmful substance has to be avoided. Currently, it is still quite unclear, which nanoparticulated material in which state and from reveals which type of danger. It is also unclear, if current measurement and classification of conventional materials, such as critical mass concentration at working places can be applied for the industrial usage of nanoparticles at all.
Main results
Avoid free flowing nanoparticles in air Eliminate ignition sources. Extended personal protection equipments are required during (un)loading processes. EX-Zone should be defined. Vacuum cleaning or variable speed fan with appropriate nanoparticle collection appear to be efficient cleaning method. In terms of waste disposal labelling and packaging are carried out according to national and international regulations.
Final suggestions
Use of nanoparticles in dispersion or in an agglomerated state. If this cannot be done, secure process containment is a must. Inert processes, if applicable. Efficient exhaust systems with particles filtration (e.g. HEPA filter H14).Personal protection equipment (Nitrile glove (2 pairs recommended), Mask (FFP3 or powered respirators incorporating helmets), Suits and safety shoes). "