Rheumatic complaints among Swedish engine drivers in relation to the dimensions of the driver's cab in the Rc engine.
This paper compares the occurrence of rheumatic complaints among male engine drivers with their body measurements and with the dimensions of the cab in the Rc Swedish engine. 150 Swedish engine drivers were interviewed regarding symptoms from the musculoskeletal system. Relevant anthropometric measurements were obtained from each subject and compared with similar dimensions on a symptom free group of drivers matched for age. Data concerning the dimensions of the cab in the Rc engine were obtained from drawings and measurements of the cab. The results indicate that engine drivers with complaints in the lower back, neck and/or shoulders and/or the lower extremities were significantly shorter than controls in those anthropometric measurements related to correct sitting posture. Since the cab of the Rc engine is designed for tall engine drivers, the shorter driver appears to be at risk. Recommendations for cab designs suitable for all potential male and female drivers are appended.
Hedberg
G
G
Licentiate of Philosophy National Board of Occupational Safety and Health, Work Physiology Division, Umea, Sweden.
Björkstén
M
M
Ouchterlony-Jonsson
E
E
Jonsson
B
B