An Inside Step in an Aerial Bucket Reduces Postural Instability During Ingress and Egress

Abstract

The objective of this research study was to determine if an inside step in an aerial bucket reduces instability of a person entering and exiting the aerial bucket by reducing muscular exertion, which in theory can help reduce the risk of a fall. There are no publications based on laboratory or field studies regarding how the design of an aerial bucket affects postural instability and the risk of falls. Three configurations of aerial buckets (2 inside step locations and no inside step) for ingress and egress were tested to determine if the presence, and also the location, of an inside step affected three indicators of postural instability: location of person’s center of mass (CM), hand force on the bucket rim, and EMG activity of the triceps and rectus femoris (quadriceps). Sixteen electric utilities workers were tested. It was found that the presence of an inner step allowed for a lower CM of the person entering and exiting the bucket, reduced the muscle activity of the triceps and rectus femoris, and decreased hand force on the rim. Two locations of the inside step are equally beneficial. Utilities should use a removable inside step in aerial buckets that do not have a door. An inside step in an aerial bucket may benefit other industries that use buckets, such as telecommunication, tree trimming, and sign painting.