Overhead work: Identification of evidence-based exposure guidelines

Abstract

Overhead work is one determinant of the genesis and propagation of shoulder occupational musculoskeletal disorders and muscle fatigue. This is a result of a combination of organizational, biomechanical and physiological factors. In this paper, evidence for identification of the mechanisms of fatigue and injury associated with overhead work is presented in the context of ergonomic design guidance. Secondarily, although significant research efforts have analyzed and interpreted overhead work, there are limited resources available to ergonomists in which theoretical and practical concerns are combined in a single source. This review paper aims to address this deficiency by reporting on the mechanisms of exposure in overhead work and their associated negative health and performance outcomes.