An Investigation into the Solutions for Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Hairdressing Industry.
Date
2011
Authors
Fang, Hsiao-Lin
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Publisher
De Montfort University
Peer reviewed
Abstract
Hairdressers’ exposure to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) appears to be
insufficiently described in the literature. Knowledge regarding musculoskeletal disorders in this group
is also sparse.
The purpose of the research was to investigate the status of work-related musculoskeletal disorder
cases found in Taiwanese hairdressers and to develop user-centred, strategic solutions to prevent the
accumulation of musculoskeletal disorders in this group, especially newcomers to the industry.
The study involved a series of investigations into the status of WMSDs for hairdressers in Taiwan as a
first step towards their prevention. A hairdresser-oriented, musculoskeletal questionnaire was used to
discover the risk factors associated with WMSDs and a validated, on-line, rapid, upper-limb
assessment tool was used to identify critical hairdressing working postures.
Improvements to the main critical hairdressing working postures identified by the first stage of the
research have been addressed by an ergonomics training programme. The effectiveness of this is
validated using 3D-motion analysis based on a pre- and post-test evaluation of awkward movements.
A scientific approach to 3D-motion analysis has been achieved specifically by the study of the
awkward working postures of the upper extremity during hair-blow-waving and hair-straightening
activities.
The relationship between working postures and WMSDs in various body regions is discussed. In this
regard, poor posture and movement can lead to local mechanical stress on the muscles, ligaments and
joints, resulting in discomfort in the musculoskeletal system, particularly the neck, back, shoulder and
wrist.
This research has provided a WMSDs prevention framework as a strategic method of securing a
continuous improvement in the awkward working postures adopted during various hairdressing
activities. Topics for further studies are suggested.
Description
Keywords
user centred design, ergonomics, work related musculoskeletal disorders, hairdressing