Assessment of the ergonomic quality of file handles using electromyographic and subjective methods

In a comparative investigation 3 file handles were evaluated with regard to their ergonomic quality. By means of a mobile measuring system for the recording of peripheral-physiological data, the muscle strain of 9 muscles of the left and right hand-arm-shoulder system was quantified with surface electromyography. A special laboratory device facilitated the standardized execution of the tests. A specific bipolar questionnaire had enabled the subjective assessment of the design, surface material, general usability, avoidance of pressure marks and blisters, suitability for the exertion of the necessary pressure and pushing forces, and the suitability during hand perspiration. Also, the assessment of more or less favorable body positions to various filing directions was made. From substantial differences in the objective data and the subjective evaluation, the inference has to be drawn that only the combination of subjective surveys and objective measurements represent the opportunity to assess the ergonomic quality of working tools adequately.