Ergonomics of grab unloaders for bulk materials handling

An ergonomic study of operator cabs for grab unloaders is presented herein. Our results demonstrated that the drivers adopted poor postures, partially owing to the basic geometry of the situation and partially because they used only the central lower front window for downward vision and control boxes obstructed vision. These problems have been exacerbated by introducing extremely large bulk carriers that have a wider hold than the previous ships used.Relevance to industryThis study evaluated the workplace and workspace design of a cab of grab unloaders for bulk materials handling from an ergonomics perspective. Recommendations for improvements are also presented. Copyright (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V.