Comparison of static lifting capacity between experienced and novice Taiwanese female workers

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have analyzed the lifting capacity of either experienced workers or novices, but a systematic comparison of the lifting capacity of experienced female workers and novices has not been conducted. OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to identify differences in lifting strengths and postures between experienced and novice Taiwanese female workers. METHODS: Twenty-three experienced female workers and 23 novices volunteered for this study. Their static lifting strengths (n = 46) and lifting postures (n = 22) were analyzed using statistical analysis software. RESULTS: Experienced workers' vertical lifting strengths were approximately 5-7 kg lower than those of novices at lower heights (≤50 cm). However, at heights equal to or higher than 90 cm, the experienced workers generated approximately 2-3 kg higher toward-body lifting strengths than did novices. The experienced workers' strengths at all 15 lifting heights were relatively unchanged, compared with changes in the novices' strengths. Experienced workers tended to adopt a consistently deep squat at lower heights and a more flexed arm posture at higher heights. CONCLUSION: Through daily work experience, experienced workers may have subconsciously learned to shift their postures to avoid overexertion. These techniques for safe lifting should be taught to new Taiwanese female workers.