Tag Archives: Electromyography

299-304 K. Jansen, L. Esko M. Luik, V. Viljasoo, J. Ereline, H. Gapeyeva, H. Aibast and M. Pääsuke
Workload assessment and its influence on a male tile layers working ability
Abstract |
Full text PDF (101 KB)

Workload assessment and its influence on a male tile layers working ability

K. Jansen¹, L. Esko² M. Luik², V. Viljasoo², J. Ereline¹, H. Gapeyeva¹, H. Aibast¹ and M. Pääsuke¹

¹Institute of Exercise Biology and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu, 5 Jakobi Street 51014 Tartu, Estonia, e-mail: jansen@ut.ee
²Institute of Technology, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 56 Kreutswaldi Street 51014 Tartu, Estonia, e-mail: pteh@emu.ee

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to evaluate tile layers workload at a construction site and its influence to their working ability. The subjects (n = 8) were male tile layers (mean ± SE) age of 36 ± 3.6 years. First the subjects completed a questionnaire and thereafter they performed before and after the working day a test of tile setting on a special wall, where was 3 stages and every stage they must set correctly 14 tiles. In the course of test the electromyographical (EMG) power spectral median frequency (MF) of biceps brachii, trapezius, deltoideus and erector spinae muscles was measured (both sides). The results of questionnaire indicate that the tile layer’s most burdened parts of the body were knees, lower back and upper back. Workers complained most about tiredness, skin irritations, dyscomfort in eyes, knee, leg, lower back and neck/shoulder pain. It is important emphasis that all tile layers were taking tiles from a left side. Objectively estimated muscle fatigue emerged before and after the working day when comparing EMG power spectral MF measured at the beginning and end of the tile setting test. The results indicated that the most burdened muscle was right erector spinae for all 3 stages. In case of physical work, it is advisable to make short breaks every hour, so as to avoid the problems caused by overload. The results of this study can be used by specialists of ergonomics and production managers.

Key words:

, ,




79-85 K. Jansen, M. Luik, V. Viljasoo, J. Ereline, H. Gapeyeva H and M. Pääsuke
Neuromuscular Fatigue Characteristics in Female Painters Following the Working Day
Abstract |
Full text PDF (114 KB)

Neuromuscular Fatigue Characteristics in Female Painters Following the Working Day

K. Jansen¹, M. Luik², V. Viljasoo², J. Ereline¹, H. Gapeyeva¹ H and M. Pääsuke¹

¹ Institute of Exercise Biology and Physiotherapy, University of Tartu
5 Jakobi Str., EE51014 Tartu, Estonia; e-mail: jansen@ut.ee
² Institute of Technology, Estonian University of Life Sciences
56 Kreutzwaldi Str., EE51014 Tartu, Estonia; e-mail: pteh@emu.ee

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in neuromuscular fatigue characteristics in painters following the working day. The subjects (n = 10) were female painters aged 22-60 years. First the subjects completed a questionnaire and thereafter they performed before and after the working day a 3-minute test of wall painting, in the course of which the electromyographical (EMG) power spectral median frequency (MF) for biceps brachii, trapezius, deltoideus and infraspinatus muscles was measured. The results indicated an increase in subjectively evaluated muscle fatigue compared to the beginning of the working day, whereas the most burdened regions were the arms and shoulders. Objectively estimated muscle fatigue emerged before and after the working day when comparing EMG power spectral MF measured at the beginning and end of the wall painting test. However, this muscle fatigue, evaluated objectively by EMG power spectrum MF slope from biceps brachii, trapezius, deltoideus and infraspinatus muscles, did not differ significantly before and after the working day. This study revealed that painters used different manners of work, whereas the working tool was the same for everyone and no-one had customized it for herself. It is also important to emphasize that 82% of the workers had not been guided in terms of ergonomics. The results of this study can be used by specialists of ergonomics.

Key words:

, ,