Commercial Dungeness Crab Fishermen’s Perceptions of Exoskeleton Use to Reduce Musculoskeletal Injuries

Commercial crab fishing involves physically demanding tasks that increase the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This study evaluated fishermen’s perceptions of occupational exoskeletons as a potential intervention to reduce physical demands in commercial fishing. Twenty commercial crab fishermen completed an in-person survey after trying soft and/or rigid exoskeletons. The survey assessed fishermen’s demographics and work characteristics, awareness, adoption and acceptance factors, potential applications, and perceived barriers to exoskeleton use. Descriptive statistics and content analysis were used to summarize responses. Fishermen identified practicality as the key adoption factor and shared concerns about cost, time required to don and doff the device, bulkiness, and incompatibility with rain gear. Crab pot handling and crab sorting were identified as potential use cases. Overall, fishermen viewed exoskeletons as potentially useful for reducing physical demands during commercial crabbing; however, successful adoption will require lightweight, comfortable, and affordable designs compatible with fishing gear and challenging work conditions.