Evaluating the Risk of Injury for Aircraft Attendants using Virtual Reality and Advanced Motion Tracking System Integrated with Ergonomics Analysis

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 strain on 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.