Citation

Chen JG. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1992; 10(3): 225-240.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Visually impaired people can be placed in appropriate types of jobs compatible with their abilities through rehabilitation and training. However, since their performance may be constrained by their physical limitations they cannot function efficiently and effectively without a fair work measurement system and the proper workplace design. The objective of this study was to develop an integrated computerized system, entitled VITAL (Vision Impaired Task and Assignment Lexicon), to perform work measurement and workplace design tasks for the visually impaired workers. VITAL consists of three modules: Ergonomics Consultation, Disability Index, and Work Measurement. The system, implemented on a microcomputer, was developed using three software packages, namely, EXSYS, FoxBASE+, and QuickBASIC. The ergonomicc consultation module gives recommendations regarding workplace design by analyzing an individual's vocational evaluation test record with ergonomics considerations via an interactive question and answer session. The disability index module evaluates the individual's residual capacities in performing industrial assembly tasks. The work measurement module simulates and evaluates the proposed workplace designs and assesses the amount of time required for tasks performed. The system performance evaluation indicated that VITAL could be used as a tool to help nonprofessional vocation rehabilitators perform work measurement and workplace design tasks.