Smart work-wear for work environment analysis and work technique training in circular processes

Purpose and goal

New jobs are being created in recycling, remanufacturing and circular material flows. Dismantling, handling of recycled materials and used components is difficult to industrialize and has large elements of manual handling, which creates musculoskeletal disorders and other work environment issues. The goal is to identify important work environment problems with the help of, i.a., smart work clothes, and to document already used solutions and the need for solutions to improve the work environment.

Expected effects and result

Companies in the manufacturing and recycling of vehicles are participating. Work environment problems and solution options are identified; contributing to sustainable circular processes; concerning work environment, sustainability, competitiveness and innovative circular processes. The experiences, together with the companies’ needs, will form the basis for a project application for a main study, focusing on prioritized work environment issues and process steps within circular processes.

Planned approach and implementation

Data collection is done during company visits through interviews, observations, smart workwear is used for risk assessment, risk management and work technique training. Ergonomic problems and critical processes are identified, as well as causes and possible solutions. The results are analyzed and documented. At workshops with additional companies and organizations, the technology is demonstrated, and circular processes that should be prioritized in a main study are discussed and documented.