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A.L. Cutler, U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland
An ergonomics team from the U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine performed an
ergonomics assessment of a new commissary check stand. One of the
objectives was to determine the risk of developing work‑related
musculoskeletal disorders among cashiers. The check stand was designed
without considering the anthropometrics of the user population or their
expectations concerning audio feedback and equipment controls and their
workplace control needs. Taller cashiers worked with their necks and
backs in awkward postures. As a remedy, the team suggested adjustable
sit‑stand stools to accommodate taller cashiers and to reduce back and leg
strain due to long periods of standing. Cashiers often double‑scanned
items unnecessarily due to delays in audio feedback (beeps). The
ergonomics team suggested real‑time audio feedback with a volume control to
discourage excessive scans. The global user interface design of the
computer software forced cashiers to navigate and scroll through excessive
screens to reach crucial product information. The team suggested
screen shortcuts to encourage keying as an alternative to hand‑scanning
heavy items and encouraged prototype design testing with samples of the user population.
For more information about USACHPPM computer workstation assessments, contact
services@ergoworkinggroup.org |
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