The effects of working with a passive arm-support exoskeleton on objective and self-reported measures during field tasks – a randomised cross-over study

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are prevalent under poor working situations. Where it is not possible to remove the root cause of MSDs, passive exoskeletons could be a solution. In this randomised cross-over field study we investigated the effect of a passive arm-support exoskeleton. Ten participants, recruited from a Dutch gas company, were measured with and without exoskeleton assessing muscle activity, heart rate (HR), arm elevation, and reported about their experiences. Participants spent more time in high arm elevation levels with the exoskeleton than without. Muscle activity was lower in the trapezius (Beta: -1.8 [-3.1; -0.4]) and deltoid (Beta: -1.4 [-2.3; -0.6]) muscles, but not the biceps muscle, during the measurements with exoskeleton than without, suggesting effectiveness of the exoskeleton. HR and discomfort did not statistically significantly differ between the two conditions. Participants would recommend an exoskeleton to their colleagues, but mainly for repetitive work. Their opinions about the usefulness during work varied.