At Aalberts, we are constantly working with management, executives and employees on new approaches and ideas to create healthier, safer and more ergonomic workplaces.

At each of our plants in Solingen and Kerpen, we carried out a four-week pilot or introductory project on the possible use of exoskeletons in collaboration with the ergonomics expert from Eparcare and in compliance with the Eparcare EuroExo protocol. By analysing the planned workstations in advance, training the employees and providing regular on-site support from Eparcare, the exoskeletons could be adapted to the employees' activities, resulting in a high level of acceptance.

For example, the "BionicBack" exoskeleton absorbs forces, dissipates them and protects the back without having to sacrifice freedom of movement and flexibility. This greatly reduces the risk of injury from overstrained muscles caused by forced postures at work.

After the test phase, the feedback from employees was consistently positive:

• Pain in the shoulder and back area could be completely eliminated during work and also largely eliminated after work.
• A better basic posture of the back and shoulders is noticeable thanks to the support, especially at work but also without support in everyday life.
• The exoskeleton is quick and easy to put on and take off, so it can only be put on when needed.
• There were also hardly any disruptive factors during wear.

Following a successful test phase and consistently positive feedback from employees, the exoskeletons are now in permanent use. In the meantime, the introduction of exoskeletons has clearly improved the health of employees in the areas where they are used.

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Axel Janeczko
Director Health, Safety & Environmental, Risk Management