Scaffolding and access specialist Haki has tested the new Exowear BackX exoskeleton on site in Denmark.
Two staff working in a Haki yard lifting steel scaffolding sections and components, weighing from 500g to 15kg, tried the one-size-fits-all BackX, which helps operatives lift loads of up to 15kg. The pair find themselves frequently leaning forward to lift. They found the BackX easy to take on and off, and reported that it relieved and reduce fatigue and wear on the lumbar spine.
Exowear also supplies related harnesses, ShoulderX and LegX.
Haki Denmark is one of the first companies to trial the BackX. Henrik G Christensen, chief customer officer Denmark/export manager at Haki Denmark, said: “Employee safety and wellbeing are essential to our strategy. Obtaining two of Exowear’s BackX skeleton harnesses was a natural step for us and is part of our on-going pursuit to ensure our operatives are safe at work.
“The BackX harness fits so well that it feels like a second skin. It’s having a noticeable, beneficial effect on [workers’] morale and is enabling them to work better and more safely. We will definitely encourage fellow organisations to follow suit.”
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This is a really bad idea. Getting people to lift loads they are not designed to lift. It is a form of exploitation and slave labour. No doubt old and disabled people will be roped in to do the heavy lifting as well.
Better to design scaffolding from lightweight materials, but of course the supply chain will scupper that as there are millions invested in rental stocks. the HSE and Unions should should band together to get this technology banned.
regards
iain Mowatt FCIOB