Speaker: , Associate Professor, Auckland University of Technology

Introduction: Introducing new work systems brings about a series of challenges in optimising design to reduce the risk of injury to workers. As part of a proposed new organic waste collection service, Auckland Council enlisted the services of the Ergonomics and Human Factors Group of Auckland University of Technology (AUT) to provide ergonomic recommendations for the design of a semi-automated collection service.

Aims: To integrate ergonomic principles into the design of a new food waste collection service to minimise the risk of musculoskeletal injury to operators.

Methods: Interviews and observations were undertaken with operators to identify potential hazards and risks to employees of existing waste collection methods. A detailed literature review provided an evidence-based approach for identifying appropriate criteria for optimising design and minimising injury risk. Field and laboratory-based user trials were undertaken to optimise food bin and vehicle receptacle design. Discussions with product designers established manufacturing and design constraints, and likely cost-benefits of the proposed designs.

Results: Work organisation and work practices varied amongst operators undertaking the current food waste collection trials. Risks identified included awkward and hazardous lifting postures, multiple bin handling, and the fast pace of work. Resident’s behaviour (e.g. overfilling bins, placement of bins) was also considered a contributory factor to potentially hazardous work practices. Findings from the user trials and field visits resulted in a bin concept design and recommendations for the vehicle receptacle.

Conclusion: Understanding the physical and mental demands of work and how they relate to user capabilities is paramount in designing new work systems that minimise the risk of injury to workers. The project brought together service provider representatives, potential users, health and safety advisors, engineers, product designers and ergonomists. Such an integrated approach to planning and delivery of a work system is rarely seen.