Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3032-5466

Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2023

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

Department

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Committee Chair

Fei Dai

Committee Member

Yoojung Yoon

Committee Member

Scott P Breloff

Abstract

Exoskeletons and exosuits (collectively termed as EXOs) have the potential to reduce the risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) by protecting workers from exertion and muscle fatigue due to physically demanding, repetitive, and prolonged work in construction workplaces. However, the use of EXOs in construction is in its infancy, and much knowledge for driving acceptance, adoption, and application of this technology is still lacking. This paper aims to identify the potential facilitators and barriers to adopting EXOs in the construction industry, along with potential solutions to those identified barriers to fostering the adoption of EXOs in construction workplaces through a sequential multistage Delphi approach. Eighteen experts from academia, industry, and government gathered in a workshop to provide insights and exchange opinions regarding facilitators, barriers, and potential solutions from a holistic perspective with respect to business, technology, organization, policy/regulation, ergonomics/safety, and end users (construction trades professionals). A consensus was reached on all these perspectives, including top barriers and potential solution strategies. The outcomes of this study will help the community have a comprehensive understanding of the potential for EXO use in the construction industry, which may enable the development of a viable roadmap for the evolution of EXO technology and the future of EXO-enabled workers and work in construction workplaces.

Download

Share

COinS