David Rempel, MD University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, CA
Ph: 510-665-3653
Email: rempel@itsa.ucsf.edu
Abstract:
Laborers and other construction workers who repair and retrofit highways and bridges are at risk for upper extremity and back injuries associated with concrete drilling. Some of these projects require drilling 5,000 to 50,000 1” diameter holes 12” or deeper. The work is done manually with 30 to 80 lb air powered drills and is usually done overhead or horizontally. The primary objective of this research proposal is to collaboratively develop drill support systems for concrete drilling on highway and bridge construction that will reduce construction worker body fatigue and pain, decrease risk for musculoskeletal disorders, and decrease hand vibration while maintaining or improving productivity. There are nine logically connected specific aims to accomplish this objective. These include focus groups (N=16) to identify problem tasks and review solutions; design, build and field test (N=15) a prototype drill support system; design of a final drill support system; field testing (N=40) with evaluation of hand vibration, arm and head postures, usability and productivity; cost-benefit analysis; dissemination; and evaluation. The project should ultimately lead to the dissemination of new methods for concrete drilling and the widespread use of drill support systems. The project has the potential to decrease soft tissue injuries to the arms, shoulders and back, and decrease risk for hand arm vibration syndrome.
