Authors (including presenting author) :
Tsang SW(1), Wong CM(1), Ng ML(2), Ho KM(2), Cheng PY(3), Fok PC(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Occupational Medicine Care Service (OMCS) New Territories East Cluster (NTEC), (2) Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Prince of Wales Hospital, (3) Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) NTEC
Introduction :
Healthcare workers are dedicated care providers for the community. In the course of work, they are exposed to ergonomic hazards which may lead to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Ergonomics program comprised hazard identification, risk assessment and control measures. Despite existing engineering and administrative control measures, some specific work tasks were identified as in need of newly designed assistive device. 3D printing technology provides cost-efficient and instant results while creating customized item which helps to put innovative ideas into tangible object to improve workplace ergonomics. An innovative design “SpikEase” will be discussed.
Objectives :
Application of 3D printing technology in workplace ergonomics by prototyping innovative design to minimize risk of WMSDs among healthcare workers.
Methodology :
OMCS, OSH and ICU department worked closely to improve workplace ergonomics. Spiking intravenous (IV) bag is a high frequency work tasks in ICU. Nurses are required to spike the IV bag by inserting spike into spiking port with forceful finger pinching, hand gripping and twisting. These actions imposed risk of hand and wrist WMSDs. Participatory ergonomics were adopted in the process that frontline staff was able to voice out their concern. OMCS care managers are experienced occupational therapists with interest in ergonomics, designed SpikEase with the following factors taken into consideration: staff feedback, application feasibility and anthropometric data e.g. grip circumference. Team members were able to try and feedback on initial 3D product. Owing to efficient feedback loop and fast iterative process, customized design would evolve and end up with a highly functional ergonomic device that guarantee optimal usability.
Result & Outcome :
SpikEase function as an enlarged handle to hold the small spiking port in place for spiking which facilitate a firm grip with hand and wrist in neutral position. Occupational hygienist, occupational medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon commented that SpikEase can minimize repetitive stress to finger joints; and strain to hand muscle and tendon. Staff and supervisor’s feedback were encouraging that SpikEase can improve their workplace ergonomics and facilitate injured staff getting back to work. Riding on the success, sharing SpikEase to relevant stakeholders and a larger scale study would be the way forward.
