An Ergonomic Case Study of Scale-Pits in Transportation

Abstract

Research Goals and Objectives This paper presents a discussion of ergonomic concerns associated with working in a confined space in the unique environment of platform scale pits for use in weighting trucks. The goal of this paper is to assess aspects of pit design and suggest redesign improvements that can be made to improve the conditions of the pit for the men who work in them. Specifically, the objective of this research is to assess two of the primary ergonomic concerns associated with Scale pits: (1) Getting the technician and his equipment safely into the pit; and (2) the ability to move around safely in the pit. Literature Review Platform scales Since weight is the truest measure devised for buying, selling, and taxing commodities it can be claimed that the platform scale changed the world (Fairbanks Scales) [2]. This scale has seen minimal modification since its development in 1830. However, the technical capabilities and occupational expectations have changed considerably since 1830. In the time of the development of the platform scale, the wagon was the major method of transporting goods over land, and the ability to determine the true weight of whole wagon loads both rapidly and accurately, made commercial transactions more equitable. The primary thing that has changed in the almost 200 years regarding the use of these scales is that now trucks and railroad cars are the major means of transporting goods over land. What has not changed, however, is the value of the platform scale. The platform scale still serves the same purpose it has since its development. The platform scale has not changed from its basic design and purpose since its creation. Today's scales, like those of the 1800's, consist of a platform onto which the vehicle being weighed drives or is pulled. The vehicle is stopped and then weighed. What have changed are the size, materials, and complexity of the system itself. Today's scales have pits poured of concrete, with levers make of cast-iron and fabricated steel girders, and either concrete or metal platforms. In addition, not all of them are mechanical in design. Some of the latest are completely electronic. The size of scales has also changed due to the differences in the

The Importance of Ergonomics in Industrial Engineering

“…Recent published works study the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among different occupational groups and sectors, especially office workers and health professionals [6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16], but this type of studies are seldom carried out in industrial sectors [17][18][19]. Other few works focus on specific risk factors [20][21][22] but the mechanisms of influence of many factors are still not well known.…”