Exoskeletons for work, a trend promoting ergonomics in industry

Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the main causes of sick leave in Europe and generate costs of millions of euros for companies, as stated by the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA). Among the most common risk factors that cause them are awkward postures, manual handling of loads and repetitive movements. These situations are especially common in the industrial sector. Taking preventive and supportive measures that promote ergonomics at work is key to reducing the incidence of these conditions. 

In recent years, technology has developed and improved exoskeletons, mechanical systems capable of adapting to the worker and providing additional assistance when performing specific tasks. EU-OSHA itself has published a document entitled Impact of the use of exoskeletons on safety and health at work, in which it explores the role of this technology in the present and future working environment. 

What are exoskeletons for work and what types exist?

Exoskeletons are external mechanical devices that attach to the human body and provide assistance and support to enhance its capabilities or facilitate movement. Generally, they consist of a frame equipped with joints, although there is a wide range of exoskeletons with different features.

Their potential to serve as a way of improving working conditions has led the Ministry of Labour and Social Economy to prepare two Technical Prevention Notes that examine their functions and correct use. Specifically, these are NTP 1162 2021. Exoskeletons I: Definition and classification and NTP 1163 2021. Exoskeletons II: Criteria for selection and integration into the company.

These documents stress that exoskeletons offer considerable benefits for workers, but that they only complement the specific preventive measures required by a job; they do not replace them. 

As we mentioned, there is a very wide range of exoskeletons, and the use of one type or another depends on the kind of task performed by the professional, their own physical condition and the place where the work is carried out. We can classify them according to certain variables.  

Types of exoskeletons by power source

• Passive. They have no electrical power supply and use hinges or springs as shock absorbers, weight redistributors or for energy capture. 
• Active. They are connected to an electrical network and have electric motors or computer-controlled systems that detect the worker’s movements. 

Types of exoskeletons by mobility

• Mobile. These are the most commonly used. They allow the person and the device to move freely. 
• Supported. They are attached to an overhead rail supported by a wheeled robot or a mobile frame. 
• Fixed. Attached to a support or wall, or suspended in the air by a harness and hook.

Types of exoskeletons by the part of the body with which they interact 

• Full-body. They enhance the capabilities of the body as a whole.
• Upper-body. They help support the weight of arms and tools, especially when working above shoulder height. 
• Lower-body. They provide continuous support and improve leg performance. 
• Back. They focus on protecting the back.

What benefits do exoskeletons offer for working in industry?

Work accidents and occupational diseases have a high cost in industry, and any preventive or worker-support measure helps to reduce it. The use of exoskeletons has become a trend in recent years because it improves ergonomics and makes demanding tasks easier to perform in a more comfortable and safer way. Based on this reality, their use offers several advantages in the industrial sector:

1. Injury prevention 

Their ability to distribute loads evenly and the physical support they provide minimise the possibility of injuries caused by handling heavy loads or repetitive postures. 

2. Reduced fatigue 

The mechanical assistance provided by exoskeletons reduces physical effort and prevents muscle overloading, improving worker comfort and job satisfaction. 

3. Increased productivity 

They help increase the user’s strength and endurance, which is especially beneficial when the job involves lifting heavy loads, speeding up tasks and increasing productivity.  

4. Personalisation 

Exoskeletons can be adjusted to workers’ physical conditions. The different types also adapt to the specific needs of industry. 

5. Improved posture 

Their design helps maintain proper ergonomics in different parts of the body. In this way, they protect spinal alignment while controlling tension in the joints

At Shoes For Crews, we are convinced that providing professionals with tools that make their work easier is key to improving their satisfaction and increasing productivity. That is why all our professional footwear models reduce the risks of workplace accidents and adapt to your team’s needs. Contact us and we will provide you with all the information you need.