Workload analysis of courier trolley push and pull for express couriers

Express couriers typically move packages by pushing and pulling trolleys as part of their duties. Rolltainers and hand carts are the most common courier trolleys. As a result of COVID-19, online shopping has expanded dramatically around the world and express courier services have become a part of everyday life. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent occupational diseases caused by repetitive pushing and pulling activities. This study investigated the physical and subjective workloads associated with straight and curved pushing/pulling of hand carts and rolltainers for express delivery. There have been many ergonomic studies conducted on pushing and pulling tasks, however, little research has been conducted on the effects of pulling and pushing directions on hand carts and rolltainers. Twenty-three professional express delivery workers participated in the study. A push and pull delivery trolley task was assessed using EMG and subjective perceived exertion in this study. A general observation was made that BIC and UT are less activated than TRI and ES when pushing and pulling delivery trolleys. Pushing a trolley is more effective than pulling one in reducing WMSD risk. A rolltainer would be preferred over a hand cart to reduce workload. The study found that hand carts generate more muscle activity when moved in a straight direction than when moved in a curved direction.