Ergonomics - Atlas Copco

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Working with high feed forces requires the
operator to lean forward slightly in order to
make use of his body weight.
an operator slipping or tripping over. An op-
erator’s footwear should be selected accord-
ing to the degree of horizontal force to be
applied and the floor surface. Special atten-
tion should be paid to the slipperiness of the
floor surface when dry, and when wet from
spilled materials or cleaning operations.
Non-slip coatings, such as paint containing
sand, have successfully reduced the risk of
“slip-and-trip” accidents in areas where wet
floors are common. However, increased
friction may make walking or manually
maneuvering a vehicle difficult.
Operator comfort in the
standing workstation
Shoes with well-cushioned insteps and
soles, and/or rugs or mats can be used in
standing workplaces to improve operator
comfort. It has been shown that working in
a standing position for prolonged periods
causes discomfort due to (1) prolonged static
muscular effort in the feet, knees and hips;
and (2) increased hydrostatic pressure of
the blood in the veins of the legs, and
general restriction of lymphal circulation
in the lower extremities.
It is, therefore, important that the stand-
ing operator is provided with the facilities to
sit down frequently and rest his or her leg