IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Development of a research program to improve the design of work situations involving forklifts

Abstract

Motorized industrial vehicles (MIV), and particularly forklifts, cause many serious and even fatal accidents. Due to the scope of this problem, it is important to increase knowledge with a view to reducing the risks associated with their use; the IRSST and the Institut national de recherche scientifique (INRS) de France have been working on it for several years. The researchers now consider it appropriate to adopt a two-part integrated approach: 1) analysis of the forklift operator’s activity, and 2) dynamic modeling of operator-forklift rollover. They want to specify these topics in a mini-research program aiming to improve the design efficiency of work situations involving MIV. This project will enable them, through a series of preliminary studies, to specify research orientations in operator safety, to develop two research protocols, and to finalize a partnership agreement with the INRS. The result will be collaboration between five teams that will use the tools of ergonomics, modeling and digital simulation to better understand the risks of rollover and collision, and then, to help improve the design of work situations and operators’ means of protection.

Additional Information

Type: Project
Number: 0099-3110
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2003
Team:
  • Jean-Guy Richard (IRSST)
  • Steve Vezeau (Université du Québec à Montréal )
  • Nicolas Gagné (Université du Québec à Montréal )
  • Michel Gou (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Carl-Éric Aubin (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Maria Olteanu (Polytechnique Montréal)
  • Denis Rancourt (Université Laval)
  • Denis Giguère (IRSST)
  • Christian Larue (IRSST)