Differences in cashiers work technique regarding wrist movements when scanning groceries

Work. 2012:41 Suppl 1:5436-8. doi: 10.3233/WOR-2012-0845-5436.

Abstract

Checkout cashier work can be repetitive and hand-intensive. Differences in workstyle might explain why some cashiers develop symptoms and other do not. Work technique is one part of the workstyle concept. The aim of this study was to analyze if there were differences in work technique among cashiers in to what extent they use large or small wrist movements when scanning groceries. Wrist movements of 17 cashiers were video recorded. The results revealed large variation among the cashiers in if they use large or small wrist movements when handling the groceries. This indicated there is a potential for some cashiers to improve their work technique.

MeSH terms

  • Ergonomics*
  • Humans
  • Movement / physiology*
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / physiopathology
  • Musculoskeletal Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Occupational Diseases / physiopathology
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Occupational Health
  • Wrist / physiology*