Topic Articles

Research and standards on Temporal Light Modulation are reviewed, I.e. flicker and stroboscopic effects in the workplace which can cause effects ranging from headaches to seizures. Six research based factors/measures are presented (perceptual, physiological, cognitive, task related, environmental, individual differences) which can be used to design questionnaires. (Table 2)

Patient transfer techniques that reduce strain and injury risk include: neutral trunk posture, coordinated knee flexion, assistive device use, and push/pull assignments based on body height and weight.

Forward (day-to-night) rotations significantly increase fatigue, degrade sleep, and impact vigilance and delay adaptation; for operations, minimize rotating shifts and prioritize fatigue risk management for safety-critical performance.

Forward (day-to-night) rotations significantly increase fatigue, degrade sleep, and impact vigilance and delay adaptation; for operations, minimize rotating shifts and prioritize fatigue risk management for safety-critical performance.

A passive exoskeleton for shoulder level tasks was tested.  The exoskeleton lowered muscle activity, lowered perceived exertion ratings, increased productivity and decreased completion time. Shoulder level work height showed improved accuracy and lower exertion than eye level.

Passive exoskeletons prevented low-back tissue creep and reduced muscle strain during prolonged stooping, helping maintain spinal stability and lowering potential risk of low back pain development.

HRV and accelerometer data can distinguish mental from physical stress, with combined stress producing stronger, more persistent physiological responses in ICU nurses.

Avoiding low back flexion reduces spinal flexion without reducing strength, but high individual variability shows simple directives are insufficient. Personalized coaching is needed to ensure safe and effective lifting performance.

Investigators determined the optimal design of a portable dynamic seat cushion. The cushion must be at least as wide as hip breath (personalized is suggested). The best shape was a ring-shaped air sac. Higher inflation increased muscle activation.

Usability of handles was studied with lifting in a grocery store. The most preferred and best evaluated design are classic rounded rectangular handles, middle position, set at 0 degrees angle. Curved handles are less preferred and holes are least preferred; and both distribute weight less evenly.