Effects of using different riveting tools on the vibration exposure and muscle fatigue of riveters and buckers

Abstract

Riveters and Buckers in the aircraft manufacturing industry are exposed to high vibration levels, often exceeding the Daily Exposure Limit Value (DELV) of 5 m/s2. Proper control of vibration exposure and muscle fatigue is crucial to minimize the risk of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD). This study investigates the impact of different rivet guns, gun handle positions, and bucking bars on vibration exposure and muscle fatigue. Ten male participants, evenly divided between riveters and buckers, participated in the experiment. Throughout the investigation, various data, including acceleration, Electromyography (EMG), heart rate, grip strength, and perceived level of exertion, were collected simultaneously from the participants. The findings revealed that gun types 3 and 4 resulted in 43.27% lower vibration exposure than gun types 1 and 2, while combining a spring dampener and tungsten bucking bar yielded 24.46% less vibration than steel and tungsten. For both riveters and buckers, the horizontal gun handle position reduced vibration by 12.66% compared to the vertical handle position. Consequently, it is crucial to consider the type of gun, bucking bar, and handle position to mitigate vibration exposure and muscle fatigue among riveters and buckers in the aircraft manufacturing industry.