Preventive strength training improves working ergonomics during welding

Abstract

To investigate the effect of a preventive strength training program on cardiovascular, metabolic and muscular strains during welding. Welders are one of the occupation groups which typically have to work in extended forced postures which are known to be an important reason for musculoskeletal disorders. Subjects (exercise group) accomplished a 12-week strength training program, while another group served as controls (control group). Pre and post training examinations included the measurements of the one repetition maximum and an experimental welding test. Local muscle activities were analysed by surface electromyography. Furthermore, heart rate, blood pressure, lactate and rating of perceived exertion were examined. In the exercise group, strength training lead to a significant increase of one repetition maximum in all examined muscles (p<.05). During the experimental welding test muscle activities of trunk and shoulder muscles and arm muscles were significantly reduced in the exercise group after intervention (p<.05). While no changes of neither cardiovascular nor metabolic parameters were found, subjects of the exercise group rated a significantly decreased rate of perceived exertion welding (p<.05). Effects of strength training can be translated in an improved working ergonomics and tolerance against the exposure to high physical demands at work.

A randomized controlled trial of the effect of participatory ergonomic low back pain training on workplace improvement

“…A number of effects of PE have been reported, including decreased musculoskeletal symptoms and industrial accidents, reduced work injury-related expenditure, and fewer days of absence 6,[10][11][12][13][14][15][16] . However, the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown no effect on the prevalence of low back pain or neck pain 17) ,n od ecrease in pain intensity 18) , and no prophylactic effects on musculoskeletal disorders 19,20) .…”

Exercise training reduces workload, improves physical performance, and promotes overall health in welders

“…The rationale for these positions was that they are common from EFP in industrial workers and exert a maximum of physical effort as shown by our own group and others. 19,20 The task was to weld a fictitious seam of two metal-workpieces. In both positions, all participants welded one-handed with their dominant hand.…”

“…[13][14][15][16][17][18] Recently, our group evaluated the effect of a resistance training program. 19 In this pilot study, a 12-week resistance training program was able to reduce muscle stress response during welding task in novices. However, these results need to be confirmed in professional welders to derive specific training recommendations in terms of time, duration, and modality of exercise.…”

Simulation and Ergonomic Evaluation of Welders’ Standing Posture Using Jack Software

“…Welders comprise a large occupational group that works long hours in forced postures [1]. Maintaining forced posture can cause early muscle fatigue [2], while it can lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in the long-term or in severe cases [3].…”

“…On the basis of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Disorder Questionnaire, the results of ergonomics related to nurses have shown that poor working postures tend to cause WMSDs, and measures to prevent WMSDs in nurses have been proposed [9]. Other scholars have proposed starting from a training and management perspective to overcome or reduce the adverse effects of welding on the upper limbs by developing a training program for welders [1]. In addition, Francisco C and Edwin T analyzed the stress on the upper limbs during the work of the auto assembly welder.…”