Posted: September 16th, 2017

Human Factors/Ergonomics (SFTY460)

Human Factors/Ergonomics (SFTY460)

1-    In a small manufacturing plant, the soldering iron shown here is used to solder connections on a large vertical panel. Several musculoskeletal injuries have been reported on this job over the last year in addition to many operator complaints. In general, it seems that:

a.    It is difficult to see the point of application when using this tool.
b.    The operators are gripping the tool unnecessarily tightly.
c.    The power cord tends to get entangled.
d.    Operators complain about wrist pain.

Redesign the soldering iron to eliminate the problems outlined above. Point out the ergonomic or other specific features that have been incorporated into the design.