Upper limb musculo-skeletal disorders and insert fitting activity in automobile sector: impact on muscular stresses of fitting method and insert position on part

摘要

Insert fitting activity is often undertaken manually because of frequent renewal of parts in the automobile sector. Repetitive, precise movements are required in this activity, which is stressful and often induces upper limb musculo-skeletal disorders (Bernard et al. 1997). The purpose of this study is to assess the impact on muscular stresses of both practical fitting method and insert position on the part. This study was conducted in a company, it analyses the actual activity of work. Nine volunteer operators took part in this study. They were required to fit eight 'clip' inserts to a part. This activity was performed in pairs: six 'clips' were fitted by one operator on the right side of the part, whilst his colleague fitted two 'clips' on the left side (Figure 1). Two fitting methods could be implemented, one manual and one using a not energised hand tool. The nine operators fitted the 'clips' on both sides of five consecutive part, using the two fitting methods. The fitting methods used and the side, on which the 'clips' were fitted were randomly chosen.