Prediction of Two-Person Team Lifting Capacity

Abstract

Predictive models for team lifting capacity are important for task and equipment design, as well as worker selection and placement. The purpose of this study was to develop a prediction equation for single gender and mixed gender two-person team lifting from the floor to knuckle height. Men (n=23) and women (n=17) were combined into teams of two men (n=26), two women (n=24), and one man with one woman (n=25). Independent variables included incremental dynamic lift, 38 cm upright pull, dead lift, fat free mass, and body mass. A least squares linear regression was used. In addition, an equation was developed from deadlift strengths only. The lightest individual deadlift and the sum of the individual deadlifts were the best predictors of team lifting capacity (R² = 0.90, SEE = 16). The results indicate that two-person team lifts to knuckle height are determined by the weaker team member.