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Volume 14, Issue 3 (Iranian Journal of Ergonomics-In Press 2026)
Iran J Ergon 2026, 14(3): 0-0 |
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Salmanzadeh H, Mirhaji Moghanjoughi A. Developing a Mixed-Integer Quadratic Programming Model for Equitable Construction Task Allocation to Mitigate Cumulative Low-Back Load Based on the MDD Model. Iran J Ergon 2026; 14 (3)
URL: http://journal.iehfs.ir/article-1-1167-en.html
URL: http://journal.iehfs.ir/article-1-1167-en.html
1- K.N.Toosi University of Technology , h.salmanzadeh@kntu.ac.ir
2- K.N.Toosi University of Technology
2- K.N.Toosi University of Technology
Abstract: (19 Views)
Background and Objectives: Low back musculoskeletal disorders are among the major concerns in the construction industry and are primarily caused by biomechanical loads imposed on the lower back. Previous studies on task allocation and job rotation have mainly focused on reducing maximum physical risk and, in some cases, psychological risk, while ergonomic indices have predominantly been assessed using qualitative or semi-quantitative methods. However, fairness in the distribution of risk and working time among workers has received less attention. Therefore, this study was conducted to develop a model for reducing risk and ensuring its equitable distribution, as well as the equitable distribution of working time. From a macro ergonomic perspective, such a model can enhance personnel motivation and prevent tensions arising from perceived inequality in the workplace.
Methods: Posture and applied force data were collected from four construction workers performing nine tasks, and the forces exerted on the lumbar region were determined using 3DSSPP software. Subsequently, using the Mainz-Dortmunder Dosis model (MDD), the quantitative risk associated with force intensity and exposure duration was calculated, and a mathematical model for equitable task allocation was developed.
Results: Implementation of the mixed-integer quadratic programming model showed that, with divisible task allocation, the cumulative low back risk and working time for each worker were 5,176 units (below the allowable limit of 5,500) and 1.575 hours, respectively. The objective function value approaching zero also indicated equality in the distribution of risk and working time.
Conclusion: While maintaining operational constraints, the proposed model improves ergonomic equity and can be used as a decision-making tool for project managers to protect workers’ spinal health while maintaining operational efficiency.
Methods: Posture and applied force data were collected from four construction workers performing nine tasks, and the forces exerted on the lumbar region were determined using 3DSSPP software. Subsequently, using the Mainz-Dortmunder Dosis model (MDD), the quantitative risk associated with force intensity and exposure duration was calculated, and a mathematical model for equitable task allocation was developed.
Results: Implementation of the mixed-integer quadratic programming model showed that, with divisible task allocation, the cumulative low back risk and working time for each worker were 5,176 units (below the allowable limit of 5,500) and 1.575 hours, respectively. The objective function value approaching zero also indicated equality in the distribution of risk and working time.
Conclusion: While maintaining operational constraints, the proposed model improves ergonomic equity and can be used as a decision-making tool for project managers to protect workers’ spinal health while maintaining operational efficiency.
Keywords: Musculoskeletal Diseases, Task Allocation, Construction Industry, Ergonomic Equity, Optimization
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Received: 2026/08/14 | Accepted: 2026/10/2 | ePublished: 2026/10/2
Received: 2026/08/14 | Accepted: 2026/10/2 | ePublished: 2026/10/2
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
