Ergonomics in Linemen Activities: A Proposal for the Redesign of a Telescopic Pole

Casanova-Vise C.; Escobar-Galindo C.M. · Springer Series in Design and Innovation (2025) · DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-88134-3_7

Resumen

Maintaining electrical towers is critical for a stable power supply but presents substantial risks to linemen’s health and safety. In 2020, the Peruvian Ministry of Labor documented 1,508 occupational accidents in the electrical sector, representing 4.6% of all workplace incidents nationwide. This study aimed to analyze the ergonomic conditions of linemen engaged in tower maintenance, specifically addressing issues associated with the telescopic pole. Using a mixedmethods approach, we applied User-Centered Design tools, such as journey mapping and interviews with linemen from Peruvian power transmission companies, to uncover ergonomic challenges and operational experiences. Ergonomic risks were assessed through Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA), revealing that tasks involving safety, electrical voltage handling, and temporary line positioning are time-intensive and high-risk. The telescopic pole emerged as a primary ergonomic issue, hindering task efficiency and safety in power line maintenance. These findings highlight the urgency for improved ergonomic solutions; consequently, a motorized pole design was proposed to enhance working conditions, minimize injury risks, and streamline maintenance processes. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.

Instituciones: Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas