Exoskeleton for health and safety in construction workers: a literature review

Abstract

Health and safety in construction are critical concerns, and exoskeletons present a promising solution to mitigate these issues. Designed to improve the ergonomics of wearers, exoskeletons are increasingly used across various industries. While this technology is relatively new to the Sri Lankan construction sector, it is already employed in many developed countries. The research aims to develop a conceptual framework for implementing exoskeletons among construction workers in Sri Lanka. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to assess the impact of exoskeletons on worker health and safety, emphasizing their ergonomic benefits and potential barriers to adoption. Findings indicate that exoskeletons have significant potential in reducing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) when properly integrated into construction tasks. The study proposes a conceptual framework that assists managers in selecting suitable exoskeleton types and tasks, aiming to enhance worker safety and productivity. This framework contributes to the construction industry by offering a structured approach to implementing exoskeletons, thereby addressing unique sector challenges and improving overall occupational health outcomes. Future research should focus on practical implementations and further exploration of barriers and facilitators to optimize exoskeleton adoption in construction contexts.