Challenges in the implementation of occupational exoskeletons: an experience report from real work settings

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders remain the leading occupational disease in many regions of the world. Occupational exoskeletons are emerging as an alternative for managing biomechanical risk, yet their transition from the laboratory to the workplace remains difficult. This article offers an experience report on the evaluation and implementation of these devices, prepared by three ergonomics and human factors professionals and drawing on interventions involving more than 600 workers and over twenty different models, across six sectors of activity in Colombia, Germany and Spain. After an overview of the current state of the technology, ten practical challenges are identified: device weight, thermal discomfort, skin friction, donning and doffing complexity, hygiene, bulk, the adaptation curve, movement restriction, fit and sizing, and psychosocial factors. It is concluded that ergonomic support is a necessary condition for translating biomechanical potential into real and sustained benefits.