A Workplace Evaluation from an Anthropometrical, Physiological,
Biomechanical, and Manual Materical Handling Perspective

Overview

This is an evaluation of a Titan Electric Utility Vehicle by Cushman¨ Industrial used by the mail room at San Jose State University for the on-campus mail delivery and pick-up service. Numerous carts are used throughout the campus and this case study reviews one representative cart. I will evaluate the job of mail deliverer/mail pick-up, as known as "Mail Room Student Assistant," and the associated vehicle involved in this job. I will be evaluating the anthropometrics, physiology, biomechanics and manual material handling of the worker and the vehicle used. Various tasks, performed during a "route" will be evaluated. A description of the worker's anthropometrics which are relevent will be included. I will describe the work performed and aspects of the work affected by anthropometrics, physiology capability of the worker, and biomechanics in order to evaluate the impact of such factors on quality, quantity and worker health and safety. Included in this report will be specific data as used in the evaluation. A brief set of recommendations for change or improvement will be included as well.

Summary

An evaluation of the Cushman¨ Electric Uitlity Vehicle used by the mail room has found that this vehicle is adaquate for the task of mail delivery/pick-up on the San Jose State University campus. Although the cab is unadjustable, drivers only drive for periods of 5-15 minutes during a 1 - 1 1/2 hour route. During the route, the driver enters and exits the vehicle, allowing for movement from building to building and "rest" from the sitting position in the vehicle. The vehicle is built for a large majority of people and can be operated even by people outside the 5th or 95th range, since this vehicle is used for short periods. Foot, arm and lifting movements were analyzed. It was found that all of these movements are safe. Recommendations were made for repairs of the vehicles and the implementation of a proer lifting program was introduced.