A biomechanical evaluation of potential ergonomic solutions for use by firefighter and EMS providers when lifting heavy patients in their homes.

Firefighters and EMS providers continue to be challenged when lifting heavy patients in their homes. This study investigated the biomechanical efficacy of four devices that could be used by two-person teams when lifting patients from the floor, from a reclining chair, or from a Simulated Inflatable Seat at chair height. Fourteen firefighter-paramedics, working in two-person teams, were instrumented with motion capture and electromyographic sensors. The Binder Lift™, the Simple Strap, and the Slip Preventer were used to lift patient actors, and were compared to current lifting methods. Postural data and the peak dynamic spine shear forces at the L5/S1 level were reduced when using the Simple Strap, the Binder Lift, and the Simulated Inflatable Seat. The Slip Preventer reduced spine flexion when the Binder Lift was not used. In summary, the tested devices can potentially reduce the biomechanical loads experienced by EMS providers as they lift and move patients.

Re-thinking floor mat design from an ergonomics perspective: Can a two-part mat system reduce biomechanical loads during normal mat handling tasks?

Floor mats are commonplace in commercial buildings, particularly in entry ways. These mats are routinely handled by delivery personnel as the mats are picked up for cleaning and clean mats are deployed. A new two-part mat design, which eliminates the need to move the rubber base during mat change operations, was hypothesized to reduce the physical demands on delivery personnel. Electromyographic data from back and shoulder muscles and spinal kinematics were obtained as 12 volunteers simulated mat selection, mat deployment, and mat pick-up tasks. Other factors considered in this study included mat size, pick-up method, and mat textile orientation during deployment. Results indicated that the two-part design reduced muscle activation levels across all tasks. Biomechanical benefits were also found when the mats were picked-up using a kick-fold as opposed to hand-fold method and when mats were deployed with the textile component rolled towards the inside of the roll.