Overview
Keywords: Aging; recovery; precision; duty cycle; fatigue
Timeline: May 2015 - present
Researchers: Jessica Cappelletto (Principal Investigator and student researcher, McMaster University), Jim Potvin (McMaster University), Jim Lyons (McMaster University)
Funder: CRE-MSD
Project type: Seed grant
Sector/Workplace type: All
Themes:
Theme
2
Risk
factors
Theme
3
Risk
assessment
Theme
4
Interventions
Background/rationale
As baby-boomers age, the percentage of the workforce over 55 years old is rising. Older workers are less capable of performing demanding tasks due to age-related strength declines. Additionally, the recovery needs of older workers are currently unknown, especially with regards to muscle damage, and there is no evidence verifying that they are adequately recovered from work before returning the subsequent day.
Research question/objectives/methods
Our research is aimed at quantifying how younger and older workers differ in their need for recovery from work-related fatigue. This research can ensure the continued safety of older workers by creating jobs that incorporate sufficient work-to-rest ratios.
Key findings
In progress
Implications for the prevention of MSD
This project will enable us to gain insight into the needs of the aging neuromuscular system when recovering from work-related fatigue. Current job demands may not be providing adequate recovery times for older workers during and/or between shifts of work.
Knowledge dissemination
In progress