Abstract
A field study was conducted to examine scanning productivity and ergonomic issues as a function of scanner technology and product type. Cashiers performed both normal and staged activities using bi-optic and flat-bed scanners. In Phase One of the study, package handling and throughput were examined. Overall, bi-optic scanning was faster and some package types were handled more efficiently. Some package types, however, were handled less optimally (i.e., flipping and twisting scans). In phase two of the study, wrist acceleration measures were examined as a function of scanner technology and package type. Lower wrist accelerations in both hands for both flexion/extension planes of motion were found for the bi-optic scanner. In addition, bi-optic scanning also produced flexion/extension accelerations (both hands) and radial/ulnar accelerations (left hand only) that were below industry validated low risk benchmarks. The effects of scanner technology and package type on wrist acceleration and scanning behavior are discussed.
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