Airplane Maintenance: Musculoskeletal Disorders vs Difficulties Identified by Workers and by Workstation Characterization

The object of the study was to provide recommendations for improving the work situations of airplane maintenance workers. This paper specifically bears on the improvement of workstations. Seventeen different tasks were videotaped and characterized through an observation grid, and 26 mechanics were questioned at the end of each video session. The results show that MSD is a major issue that highlights the importance and potential impact of the accuracy required to perform tasks. We were also able to delineate the main issues surrounding workstation design. The value of using both observation and surveys, and the potential of body rigidification as a risk factor are also discussed.