Global Journal of Researches in Engineering, G: Industrial Engineering, Volume 23 Issue 2

Evaluating the Risk of Injury for Aircraft Attendants using Virtual Reality and Advanced Motion Tracking System Integrated with Ergonomics Analysis Xiaoxu Ji α , Ethan Swierski σ , Maria A. Arenas ρ , Ranuki O. Hettiarachchige Ѡ , Xin Gao ¥ & Jizhou Tong § Abstract- Aircraft attendants are at a high risk of occupational injuries and illnesses, leading to substantial compensation costs and staff shortages in the aviation industry. To address this issue, this study introduces an innovative virtual reality technique and advanced motion tracking system integrated with ergonomics tools to effectively evaluate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among aircraft attendants during their routine tasks. The study involved twenty-two participants who performed two common tasks: opening/closing the passenger door, and lifting luggage from the floor and placing it into the overhead compartment. The inappropriate postures were identified, which resulted in excessive strainon the participants’ lower back. By analyzing the impact of biomechanical variables, such as object weight, body height, and trunk motion, on the lower back, the study provides valuable insights that can inform the development of safety training programs and real-time monitoring approaches for injury prevention. Additionally, this innovative technology can be applied to other occupational fields. Keywords: aircraft attendants; injury risk; virtual reality; xsens motion tracking; jack siemens; ergonomics. I. I ntroduction ircraft attendants in the aviation industry are exposed to various challenging and hazardous situations. Unfortunately, they face a higher risk of workplace injuries and illnesses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [1], aircraft attendants experienced 4,980 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2019, with a rate of 517 per 10,000 full-time workers. Additionally, since 2003, 34% of all aircraft attendants have been injured on the job, and one in four have lost work time due to an injury [2]. Studies have shown that primary risk factors for these injuries and illnesses include aircraft attendant seating, handling of passenger luggage, service trolley design and maintenance, and galley design. Besides external factors, exerting forces and postures while pushing the A Author α σ ρ Ѡ : Biomedical Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA, 16541, USA. e-mail: ji001@gannon.edu Author ¥ : Electrical and Computer Engineering, Gannon University, Erie, PA, 16541, USA. Author § : Computer and Information Science, Gannon University, Erie, PA, 16541, USA . © 2023 Global Journals Global Journal of Researches in Engineering Volume XxXIII Issue II Version I 1 Year 2023 ( ) G serving cart, bending and twisting the upper body to pick up luggage, and reaching for items can contribute to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The most commonly affected areas are the shoulders and back due to poor biomechanical techniques and chronic fatigue[3]. To evaluate and prevent injuries in the aviation industry, various companies and research groups have developed injury assessment methods for aircraft attendants. Delta Airlines, a leading aviation airline, used Marsh's Ergonomics Practice to conduct a comprehensive review of ergonomics risks for aircraft attendants. This practice assessed the body forces, movements, and repetitions that aircraft attendants perform during their shifts [4]. In [5], this study developed a questionnaire that uses the 6-digit North American Industrial Classification System (NAICS) code and 2-digit Workers Compensation Insurance Organiza- tions (WCIO) code to analyze injury characteristics, such as body part injured, nature of the injury, and cause of injury, in the aviation industry. A study among Sri Lankan aircraft attendants [6] analyzed various factors in their questionnaire, including sex, ethnicity, duration of service, height, weight, ergonomic training, nature of the injury, manner of injury, part of the body affected, and whether the injury required time off to recover. In [7], this study developed another self-made questionnaire that covers personal and work-related information, work environment, pain occurrence site and intensity, and workplace stress. While these studies help to understand the strains that come with being an aircraft attendant, more research is needed to comprehensively understand how anthropometric and biomechanical factors impact aircraft attendants' health. Virtual reality (VR) technology is currently being utilized to investigate the effects of external factors such as vision and sound on the body. By simulating real-life situations, individuals can make spontaneous movements in a safe environment without risking injury. For instance, in one study [8], VR was used to design innovative interiors that enhance passenger comfort and well-being on future business aircraft by improving privacy during travel. Another study [9] employed the