NIOSH Mining Major Equipment

Drop shock testing machine

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The IMPAC 3636 Mark II free fall shock testing machine, manufactured by MTS Systems Corp., is a free-fall testing machine of unique design for performing a wide range of shock tests. One testing procedure is to simulate impulsive (short duration) forces experienced by heavy equipment operators that may contribute to sprains and strains and other lower back injuries. Once these operator g-forces are characterized in the field, researchers can simulate conditions which could cause injuries on the MTS shock testing machine. Researchers can then design and test engineering controls to reduce operator injury.

Site:  Spokane Research Laboratory

Laboratory:  Human Factors Engineering Laboratory