Ergonomic Interventions in the Building, Repair, and Dismantling of Ships

Easy Fixes: Pre-Assembly

Hazard: On-board outfitting of assemblies of pipes, ventilation systems, etc. Occurs in the confined spaces within the vessel during hull erection and after launching. Material and personnel must be transported to the final location of the assembly before the system unit can be constructed. Inherent confined spaces force workers to adopt awkward postures to complete the work. Awkward postures can result in injury to the neck, back, and arms.

Solution: On-unit outfitting of assemblies in the shipyard allows for easier use of powered lifting devices to minimize the confined spaces the workers must work in as shown in this picture taken in a Japanese Shipyard.

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