A variety of ergonomic exposures have been shown to cause nerve hand/wrist disorders. Elevated digital vibration threshold (decreased sensitivity) has been associated with exposure to vibrating hand tools. However, literature exploring its responsiveness to other exposures is sparse. The objective of this study was to identify self-reported ergonomic exposures that are determinants of increased vibration threshold in automotive manufacturing workers (n=1185).
Vibration thresholds were measured utilizing the method of limits with the 120 Hz Vibraton II vibrometer (Physitemp, Clifton, NJ). T-tests and tests for trend, followed by multivariate analysis were performed to ascertain the effect of various ergonomic exposures (as well as an exposure index formed from the sum of workers' ratings of repetition, grip force, awkward postures, whole body effort, contact stress, machine pace, segmental and whole body vibration factors), while adjusting for potential confounders. Analyses were done for the population as a whole and stratified by tool use.
Mean vibration threshold increased with age (p < 0.05, non-parametric test for trend), consistent with previous literature. In contrast to other studies, women had lower thresholds than men (p < 0.05, t-test). Vibration threshold did not differ by hand tool use, but the ergonomic exposure index was associated with the outcome in tool users only, adjusting for age and gender. Similar results were found after eliminating segmental and whole body vibration ratings from the index. The models were not confounded by height, alcoholism, smoking status, wrist injury, or disease (gout, diabetes, etc.).
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: Describe ergonomic and other determinants of elevated vibration threshold in manufacturing workers
Keywords: Ergonomics, Epidemiology
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.