Scott Valorose, M.S., CPE



EDUCATION & TRAINING:

M.S.
Work Environment/Ergonomics; December 1993
University of Massachusetts Lowell, Massachusetts

B.S.
Industrial Technology; August 1992
University of Massachusetts Lowell, Massachusetts

Practical Electromyography for Ergonomists; October 2001 HFES 45th Annual Meeting

WORK EXPERIENCE:

May 2002 – Present
Principal, Ergonomics Outreach™

Ergonomics Programs & Worksite Assessments
Ergonomic Technologies Corp (ETC)/KeySpan Energy
Contracted with ETC to perform services for KeySpan Energy. Prepared an action plan to control ergonomic risks for high risk plant maintenance tasks through joint union/management walkthroughs as well as joint safety committee meetings during which, tasks and associated risks were discussed and mitigation efforts were reached. Union members were from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).

Ergonomic Technologies Corp (ETC)/Montana Rail Link: Contracted with ETC to perform services for Montana Rail Link. Prepared work practice training materials for mechanical staff of an FRA Class II regional railroad to satisfy their loss control initiative. Training included background of ergonomics, general awareness, and job specific recommended work practices. Training was developed following roundhouse risk assessments in which union members from the Brotherhood of Railway Carmen, Transportation Communications Union, International Association of Machinists, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers participated.

Objective Measurement & Product Design
CHEP:
Quantified work efficiency metrics to identify product design benefits between two types of reusable plastic containers through multiple muscle surface electromyography (EMG) and user preferences and perceptions.

Symbol Technologies: Conducted user research and usability testing of a wearable barcode scanner for parcel tracking within a large distribution plant utilizing unionized (Teamsters) workers. Developed surveys and conducted usability testing on-site to access design benefits and deficiencies prior to product acceptance and implementation. Performed statistical analyses on perceived discomfort/effort ratings from product usability testing data to determine possible out-lying data points.

Litigation – Expert Witness
Metro-North Commuter Railroad:
Performed a critical review on the report issued by the plaintiff’s expert witness in regard to alleged rotator cuff and biceps tendon tears to a sheet metal worker. Identified gross inaccuracies in the reliability of on-site measurements, estimated biomechanical loads, and methodologies and references used to indicate increased risk by the plaintiff’s witness. Case was quickly and reasonably settled.

Feb. 1998 – April 2002
Senior Ergonomist, Ergonomic Technologies Corp

Ergonomics Programs & Worksite Assessments
DiamlerChrysler:
Conducted ergonomic assessments of assembly line jobs during preparation and development for new model year; attention was given to work heights, layout, tooling, and design-for-assembly. Total of 400 jobs were assessed with the in-plant support of the United Automobile Workers’ (UAW) plant manager and line workers.

Nissan Motors: Conducted ergonomic assessment of leaf spring assembly jobs with the support and interaction of UAW station workers and Nissan management. Station layout modifications were recommended to support balancing line production.

Westvaco: Conducted ergonomic risk assessment of jobs supporting two commercial printing machines as reported concerns were voiced by union representatives. Risk factor exposure was assessed using several methodologies. Findings indicated that jobs were not high risk, although improvements could be made. Practical recommendations, including work method modifications were modeled to indicate proposed before and after benefits, and explained to both management and union workers.

Montana Rail Link: Conducted worksite assessments for heavy mechanical overhaul workers (i.e., roundhouse) as well as mechanical, operating, and maintenance-of-way workers for a Class II regional railroad. Observational data and discussions held at numerous worksites from the unionized workforce and foremen were classified to generate detailed job and physical demand descriptions to be used in medical standards to support diagnoses, treatment, and return-to-work strategies. Jobs, physical demands, risks, and control measures were discussed with company management including the Director of Medical Claims and Safety Manager as well as members of the International Association of Machinists, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, Transportation Communications Union, and Brotherhood of Railway Carmen.

Consolidated Edison: Conducted jobsite assessments over several days at various locations, and developed solutions for overhead electric transmission and distribution workers (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Utility Workers Union of America). Developed work sampling assessment methodology to reasonably estimate risk factor exposure and responsible task variables. Prioritized solutions to reduce ergonomic risks and actively discussed with the management.

KeySpan Energy (MSD): Led effort into injury/illness trend analysis and worker surveying. Conducted large-scale risk assessment and mitigation effort for electric production power plant workers with the assistance of safety coordinators and the unionized (IBEW) workforce. Reduced back injury risk through systems approach to manual material handling. Justified lift table purchase through validation study; average back bending decreased 80%, extreme bending and kneeling was eliminated, and task efficiency was improved 40%. Elimination of one back injury equals the cost of nine tables.

Recommended and justified anti-vibration glove purchase for electric production power plant workers. Purchase was based on 40-60% reduction in vibration compared to current gloves; saved $7 per pair over current stock.

Recommended and justified composite handled hammers. Conducted mechanical shock impact tests, finding that the composite handle transmitted 55-60% less mechanical shock than the current wooden handled hammers. Composite hammers also have longer life cycles than wooden handles.

Conducted heat stress measurements in multi-boiler plant to determine heat stress variables (e.g., radiant heat, humidity, air flow) and risk potential to near by IBEW union workers. Developed solution plan that included heat reflective absorptive curtains, mobile cooling fans, and management practices.

KeySpan Energy (GD&C): Recommended alternative hand tool and shovel designs which was followed by a detailed design comparison between the current tooling and composite handle tools. Expert review and comparison to recommended design guidelines as well as user testing with members of the IBEW and Transport Workers Union (TWU) was conducted. Presentations during joint union/management safety meetings were made to each crew concerning the background and benefits of the implementation.

With joint involvement from TWU workers and KeySpan R&D, heavy tool loading and storage within trucks was assessed; leading to design work and manufacture of a lift assist prototype. Prototype did not require tool bin modification as did a commercial version, cost less than the commercial version, and was considered a viable option by both TWU union members and management in improving work efficiency.

Rochester Gas & Electric: Co-trained utility transmission and distribution safety and supervisor personnel in general awareness and risk assessment methodologies over two-day course to support their safety and health program and growing concern with ergonomic injuries. Discussion and site visits occurred with union members (IBEW) and RG&E management.

United States Postal Service: Supported development of an OSHA citation rebuttal regarding alleged DBCS ergonomic hazards by modeling functional reach and postural analyses, including musculoskeletal loads on the back, per segmented work height.

Allen Bradley-Rockwell Automation: Conducted ergonomic risk assessment of commercial kitchen jobs (near 100) and workers within large assembly and production plant. Found ergonomic risks and inefficiencies throughout kitchen jobs and areas, and proposed several practical work practice modifications when handling baking pans, pots, and mixing bowls. Opportunities were also illustrated when considering updated layouts and equipment purchases.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Performed over 200 ergonomic risk, solution, and cost benefit scenario analyses for cost-benefit estimations regarding the Final Ergonomics Program Standard of November 2000.

Kohler Company: Analyzed and determined the physiological capacity and biomechanical strength requirements of specific plant jobs to determine job suitability pertaining to a female workforce.

Caterpillar: Conducted worksite ergonomic assessment of five jobs in large assembly plant for the purpose of becoming familiar with Caterpillar operations to develop engineer based training modules, to identify and prioritize ergonomic risks by job and body part, and to develop appropriate interventions.

Mansfield Plumbing: Conducted worksite assessments at two production plants (Ohio and Texas) to reduce back and shoulder risks for heavy plumbing product workers. Workplace modifications were predicted to reduce back compression forces (16%) to a safe limit. Back and shoulder strength percentages increased 23% and 160% to satisfy design limits.

Chinet Company: Conducted ergonomic assessment of two plastic product machine packing jobs within regional manufacturing plant using observational methods as well as dynamic real-time back posture and motion measurement (Lumbar Motion Monitor). Assessment outcomes were used to support decision of going to a smaller packing container.

ThermoKing: Supported ergonomic assessments and solution development by performing biomechanical modeling of jobs and product research specific to overhead rail systems and material handling, and pneumatic sleds to redesign plant production line.

UnumProvident Corporation: Conducted ergonomic assessment of dental technician jobs to gather exposure data related to medical claim. Researched bodily risk factor levels reported in literature, compared levels to those found from on-site observation, and rendered opinion on risk.

Staywell Publications: Reviewed general awareness publication on lifting practices and techniques; provided recommendations and feedback to clarify technical descriptions and illustrations.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation: Supported national office ergonomics program for government agency for two years through development of management practices, procedures, and forms including drafting the program directive; conducting one-on-one assessments and training; and running the ergonomics helpdesk. Ergonomics support was provided in Washington DC, New York, Chicago, and Kansas City. Program metrics included MSD symptom reduction of up to 70% for multiple body parts and reducing capital costs 33%.

Ropes & Gray (Law Firm): Evaluated intensity and uniformity light levels in multi-floor office to ease concerns about work efficiency and visual discomfort during VDT work. Out of compliance areas were identified and corrective actions concerning fixtures, lamps, and wall colors were provided.

Facilitated large HR purchase of executive office seats through a detailed design review including forty ergonomics criteria. Moneys saved included interior design fees, work inefficiencies, and elimination of needless “ergonomic” product purchases.

Social Security Administration: Performed office ergonomic assessments for top executives at SSA’s Baltimore headquarters to educate them on the program.

Objective Measurement & Product Design
3Dconnexion:
Identified work efficiency metrics in terms of physical/mental demands and completion times for CAD input methods to support Six Sigma improvement initiative at US auto maker. Surface electromyography (EMG) and electrogoniometry was used to quantify upper extremity work demands. Testing led to an informed decision on whether to purchase and systematically implement 3D input devices.

Symbol Technologies: Developed, collected, and interpreted human interface data with internal designers for next generation wearable scanner for parcel tracking for use by Teamster members.

Conducted ergonomic and usability testing to examine the interface between users and the Signet Ring Scanner to measure the adequacy of the overall design as well as its specific features. Subjective perceptions of specific features and related comfort levels were collected from a group of subjects subsequent to two scanning tasks. Provided prioritize design recommendations related to the securing strap, trigger location and tactile feedback, and cabling.

Conducted usability testing of a hand-held barcode scanner to identify scanner design variables and the overall design that helped users better locate barcodes and scan more accurately. Visual cues, housing shape, and coloring were found to be key variables in assisting users.

Reviewed and provided technical modifications to general awareness and work practices poster related to scanner use and situation.

Conducted research on the optimal and preferred size and location of activation triggers for wearable barcode scanners. Objective thumb and finger effort level (EMG) data as well as subjective comfort and design feature data were used to trend effort demands and usability issues. This research has been utilized in designing newer product lines and generations.

Researched finger dislocation technical papers in terms of applied forces, directions, and affected joints to support the design of a safe breakaway strap configuration.

Maytag Corporation: Supported major appliance manufacturer develop future product lines through measurement of multiple real-time back posture and motion variables and perceived bodily exertions during task completion at sixteen design configurations.

Group 4: Reviewed prototype inhaler design in terms of anthropometrics, biomechanics, and usability variables of interest; highlighted potential deficiencies for older user populations.

Emerson Tool Company: Identified ergonomic benefits through quantified mechanical shock and handle transmissibility for consumer-oriented hammer versus its competitors to drive national marketing campaign. Design benefits included better nail driving efficiency, lower head recoil, and less mechanical shock transmitted to the user.

KeySpan Energy (GD&C): Compared gas leak tool generations through user muscle effort levels ( EMG), whole-body physiological demands (heart rate), and tool handle mechanical shock levels (vibration) after recommended design modifications were made. Transport Workers Union (TWU) support and involvement was critical. Peak impact shock was reduced 62-80% (p<0.05).

Recommended tool bit modifications for asphalt drilling tool, saving $45,000 in R&D and back injury costs. Modified bits in use and receiving positive worker feedback from TWU members.

Piney Bowes: Provided ergonomic design guidance and support to ensure productive and safe design for mail inserter machine. Objective data including upper extremity effort levels and postural demands, dynamic back postures and motion, as well as elevations in heart rate per task and work height scenario drove design trends and data-driven recommendations.

Ingersoll-Rand: Conducted a comparative study between 1-inch impact tools used for bus maintenance. Electromyography and heart rate data in addition to subjective preferences and perceptions were used quantify ergonomic differences and benefits of use in the work environment.

Conducted pistol grip assembly tool expert review and on-site comparative analysis to benchmark new product line versus its competitors. Objective test methodologies included electromyography (EMG), electrogoniometry, vibration/mechanical shock, and handle temperature. Data collection occurred at UAW plants.

Conducted torque reaction analyses on competitive right-angle wrenches; developed and conducted on-site testing using handle mounted accelerometers.

Pentel of America: Participated in developing sound testing methodologies (user surface electromyography, user electrogoniometry, pen point pressure) used to assess writing fatigue and design characteristics of prototype morphing pen; supported statistical analyses and interpretation.

United Airlines/Franklin Products: Conducted pressure profile analyses of a standard seat cushion and two prototypes to validate new cushion foam density and construction. Data included average pressures over two seat cushion profiles, average contact areas, and pressure changes or distribution.

Bemis Manufacturing Company: Planned testing methodology to perform a comparative analysis using pressure mapping between medical head and heel cushions. Analysis was used to support product claims of better patient support and control during triage and treatment.

Radius Product Development: Reviewed the design parameters and function of a prototype medical inhaler to ensure universal design. Found and reported a high activation force as the intended age of users increased as well as a different product motion pattern as intended by the designer.

International Truck and Engine: Developed and conducted perceived seat comfort study for commercial truck line. Technical surveys were administered at various points along thirty (30) mile driving route. This work supported internal design and human factor initiatives.

Vistalab Technologies: Conducted laboratory based testing to develop testing protocol for pipette comparison study. Utilized electromyography (EMG) and electrogoniometry during development and presentation process with client.

BE Aerospace: Supported seat cushion study of airline seats by providing support and supervision on subject testing, anthropometry measurement and analysis, and pressure measurement interpretation.

Litigation – Expert Witness
Metro-North Commuter Railroad:
Performed critical review of report issued by plaintiff’s expert witness and provided verbal testimony in evidentiary hearing to successfully defend client against fifteen carpal tunnel syndrome claims; proved to the court that the plaintiff’s expert witness did not present adequate evidence to support his conclusions or opinions pertaining to the alleged ergonomic hazards.

Metro-North Commuter Railroad: Performed critical review of report issued by plaintiff’s expert witness in regard to alleged ergonomic risks and injury (cervical radiculopathy). Illustrated gross errors in theory and use of 2D biomechanical vector modeling and ergonomic methodologies to question conclusions offered.

Oct. 1996 – Feb. 1998
Ergonomist, BCAM International

Ergonomics Programs & Worksite Assessments
CNA Insurance Companies/Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association’s:
Performed on-site risk assessments within sheet metal fabrication shops and at job-site (during construction of MCI Center in DC) to identify ergonomic risks associated with fabrication and installation tasks in support of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractor’s National Association’s safety and health interests.

CNA Insurance Companies/ National Roofing Contractors Association’s: Conducted ergonomics risk assessments of commercial roofing tasks at two work sites to identify ergonomic risks and improvement opportunities in support of the National Roofing Contractors Association’s safety and health interests.

Baltimore Gas & Electric: Assessed high risk electric splicing tasks with direct involvement from IBEW members and BG&E safety personnel. Predicted a 58% hand/wrist injury reduction or $67,000 to $410,000 in compensation savings after implementing ergonomic modifications.

Long Island Lighting Company (ED&C): Developed physical demand descriptions from ergonomic assessments of electric utility job classifications (IBEW members) to facilitate interviews, assess applicants’ abilities, discuss possible accommodations, and minimize likelihood of exacerbating disorders and injuries.

Developed and edited an outline and script for an ergonomics training video that included background information on ergonomics, common risk factors, MSD signs and symptoms, and control measures to improve worker education and general awareness.

St. Paul Company: Supported training material development related to construction work and ergonomic risks, and commercially available solutions.

AIG Claim Services: Conducted worksite ergonomic assessments regarding drum handling activities and developed practical no-cost and low cost solutions, including improved work techniques and drum handlers with integrated scales.

Consolidated Edison: After assessing electrical worker tasks (International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and Utility Workers Union of America) and splicing truck interactions, vehicle and work modifications were developed to reduce the contributing factors of injury; recommendations were structured as retrofits and as new truck specifications.

Pacific Gas & Electric: Reviewed efficiency of assistive device for loading and unloading heavy tamping equipment from truck; finding the device a good example of workforce ergonomic ingenuity.

Identified potential biomechanical and vibration concerns while using tamping equipment and recommended practical work technique and equipment modifications.

Objective Measurement & Product Design
KeySpan Energy:
Developed, assembled, and tested pavement breaker lift assist to mitigate back injuries among IBEW members. Biomechanical predictions showed a 50-55% decrease in low back forces and an 85% to 95% increase for workers not at risk. Conducted on-site objective based testing and identified up to a 70% reduction in back muscle activity (EMG).

Black & Decker: Conducted product design reviews of prototype irons and hand mixers to support engineering and marketing initiatives. Critiqued parameters that affect comfort, fit, and usability and provided categorized design improvement opportunities.

The Campbell Group: Conducted a design review and critique of electric rotary tools and highlighted ergonomic differences in terms of usability and user comfort between the tools.

Litigation – Expert Witness
Consolidated Railroad:
Conducted multi-site ergonomic assessments and data gathering efforts of mechanical, operating, and maintenance-of-way workers. Reviewed injury files associated with alleged carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and knee/hip osteoarthritis cases and developed literary based criteria used to estimate ergonomic risk. Prepared site reports and generated opinions of whether workers were exposed risk factors to the extent to constitute MSD hazards. Joint union/management support in setting up and conducting site visits was critical. Unionized workers included International Association of Machinists, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employees, Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen, and Brotherhood of Railway Carmen.

Jan. 1995 – April 1996
Ergonomics Intern, United States Postal Service (EH&S)

Ergonomics Programs & Worksite Assessments
Supported ergonomics initiatives for deployed manual, mechanized, and automated operations to control injury rates and lost workdays; gained familiarity with DBCS, CSBCS, FSM, CFS, LSM, and REC operations.

Participated in joint union/management committee meetings with the American Postal Workers Union and National Postal Mail Handlers Union.

Evaluated keyboard and workstation designs through postural demands, surveys, and production output to formulate actions in response to an OSHA citation.

Increased worker education and awareness by developing a proper seat practices training video as related to health and performance levels.

Supported control implementation at contractor REC sites for approximate $10,000,000 in cost avoidance from reduced compensation case rates (2/100 FTEs from 49/100 FTEs).

Conducted large-scale computerized data collection of 700 symptom surveys, 250 risk factor analyses, and 92 compensation case files at REC sites.

March. 1994 – Dec. 1994
Loss Control Field Representative, Equifax Commercial Specialists

Worksite Assessments
Evaluated process and equipment configurations, workplace dimensions and layouts, and environmental variables for loss control and risk policies.

PUBLICATIONS & CONFERENCES:

Buchholz, B., Valorose, S.; Kinematics of the Thumb. Clinical Biomechanics. 1996

Leveraging Your Ergonomics Program to Obtain Timely Results and Generate Excitement; Applied Ergonomics Conference, March 13-15 2001, Orlando, FL. Co-presented with Thomas Barracca of KeySpan Energy.

Ergonomics in the Power Plant Environment; KeySpan Energy Long Island Technology Expo, June 2000, Melville, NY.

PATENTS:

Järvinen, J., Cassar, T., Costello, K., and Valorose, S., Ergonomic Tool with Lift Assist Mechanism, Patent No: 6,050,345, April 18, 2000

CERTIFICATION & AFFILIATIONS:

Board of Certification in Professional Ergonomics, CPE: Certificate #787
Human Factors & Ergonomics Society: Member #15658
Human Factors & Ergonomics Society New England Chapter: Publications Chair ‘02
American Society of Safety Engineers: Member #35859
Industrial Designers Society of America: Professional Member

SKILLS:

Noraxon MyoResearch, Polar Heart Rate Monitor, Lumbar Motion Monitor, Biometrics Electrogoniometers, Open Ergonomics PeopleSize Pro, University of Michigan’s 3DSSPP & Energy Expenditure Prediction Program, 1991 NIOSH Lifting Guide, Omega Microprocessor Thermometer, Simpson Dosimeter, Sekonic Illuminometer, Microsoft Office Professional, Dazzle Video, Analyze-It Statistical Package, SPSS









© 2004 Ergonomic Technologies Corporation