ErgoTools: Software Platform Integrating Fatigue Failure-Based Risk Assessment Tools for Ergonomics Evaluation in Salmon Processing

Abstract

ErgoTools is an open-source software platform developed to support Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) risk assessment for workers in salmon-processing environments. Grounded in fatigue failure theory, the platform integrates three validated tools, LiFFT, DUET, and The Shoulder Tool, into a unified interface for evaluating cumulative loading on the low back, upper extremities, and shoulders. ErgoTools enables users to input task-specific variables, visualize anatomical risk areas in 3D, and compare exposure across workers or jobs. Three case studies from a Chilean salmon-processing facility are presented that demonstrate how ErgoTools supports musculoskeletal disorder risk identification, quality control improvement, and productivity insights.

Keywords

ergonomics software fatigue failure cumulative load musculoskeletal disorders salmon processing LiFFT DUET shoulder tool risk assessment open-source tools

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