Abstract

Physically demanding, the handling of manhole and water supply system covers introduces several risks of musculoskeletal disorders for workers, mainly due to their unsuitable handling aid tools. In a prior study, the researchers showed that no existing tool made this task safe to perform; they therefore established design criteria for a tool better adapted to this task, namely one that is safer and performs better. This time, with the collaboration of a roadway equipment supplier, they will examine in an actual situation the use of a new proposed tool, its effects on musculoskeletal solicitation, and the degree of worker satisfaction with it. This collaboration should lead to the design of an improved and safer tool prototype.