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Outputs
Version 4 of the Overhead Drill Press is currently used on worksites and is available on a limited basis for interested contractors.
Contact Dr. Rempel to find out about purchase and use.
View photos of the new tool or watch a short video demonstration.
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David Rempel, MD, MPH
University of California - San Francisco
San Francisco , CA
Ph: (510)231-5720
Email: rempel@itsa.ucsf.edu
Abstract:
For construction workers, repeated overhead drilling into concrete or metal is one of the most physically demanding tasks at work; a task associated with elevated rates of shoulder pain and disorders. The purpose of this study is to develop and evaluate various interventions to assist with overhead drilling in order to reduce shoulder load. In Phase 1 of the study, three assist devices will be used over one day in the field by 20 construction workers. The devices will be modified to address identified limitations and the evaluation and modification process will be repeated. In Phase II, the best 2 devices will be evaluated against the usual method for overhead drilling by 120 construction workers when they perform 3 days of overhead drilling in the field. The construction trades studied will be plumbers, electricians, and sheet metal workers. Outcome measures will be shoulder pain rating, shoulder posture, electromyography of shoulder and forearm muscles, tool vibration, device usability and work productivity. Cost-benefit analysis will be performed. In Phase III, the study findings will be disseminated nationwide. This phase will involve assembling a Dissemination Advisory Committee which will design and oversee the implementation of a dissemination plan directed to construction workers who perform overhead drilling, related contractors and tool purchasers, tool manufacturers, and construction health and safety professionals. It is anticipated that the study will identify overhead drilling interventions that will reduce shoulder pain and shoulder load and improve productivity and effectively disseminate this information nationwide.
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