Solution Summary: Concrete Demolition Tool Operator with Boom Arm
The concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm is a portable pneumatic tool mount with a hydraulic boom that can operate tools.
Description:
The concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm, such as the Positioner-Actuator-Maniplator (P.A.M.), is an engineering control that may help decrease overhead work. The PAM is a tool-mounting platform that can hold various pneumatic tools used for concrete removal so they can be operated in different positions.
The P.A.M. comes with a tool mount, hydraulic boom, and platform and frame with outriggers (Figure 1). The hydraulic boom can be elevated up to 9 ft, extended horizontally up to 7 ft, and has 100° of rotation (Fig. 2). The platform is rollable and comes with 3 outriggers to increase stability while working. The P.A.M. weighs 525 kg (1150 lb) without tools mounted; the frames dimensions are 32 in by 72 in without the removable wheels attached. The frame comes with four caster wheels and two removable 12 in wheels for transport. The tool mount has a water nozzle attachment to reduce dust production during operation. The tool-mounted arm on the hydraulic boom is designed to push the tool against the working surface and maintain contact while the tool is engaged. The P.A.M. consumes 50-60 cubic feet per minute of air at 90 lb per square inch.
Figure 1. The P.A.M.
Figure 2. The P.A.M. positioning area.
Figure 3. The P.A.M. performing overhead concrete removal.
Risks Addressed:
Overhead work can cause musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) such as shoulder muscle strains; tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendons; or rotator cuff tears, which is a rupture of a shoulder tendon. The concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm can help reduce overhead work by allowing workers to operate pneumatic concrete removal tools from shoulder level or lower.
How Risks are Reduced:
Using a concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm reduces the ergonomic hazards generated from overhead work because the workers can operate the pneumatic tool without having to elevate their arms during manual demolition.
The manufacturer states that the concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm “eliminates wear and tear on workers”, “eliminates…. vibration and weight”, and is less fatiguing for workers to use.
Safety and health experts believe that working with arm along the sides reduces the risk of shoulder injuries associated with overhead work.
Effects on Productivity:
The concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm may increase productivity by reducing wear and tear on workers performing overhead work associated with concrete removal.
Additional Considerations:
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P.A.M. does not reduce the demand for workers to extend the neck to look up while performing overhead concrete removal
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The concrete demolition tool operator with boom arm does not reduce the demand for workers to extend the neck to look up while performing overhead concrete removal
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Usage of this robotic device should be in accordance within the manufacturer's recommendations
- As this is a robotic device, OSHA's Lockout/Tagout standards (29 CFR 1910.147 and 1910.333) should be followed for servicing and maintenance. Even though it is not stated in the manufacturer's website, this is a precautionary step
Availability
RNP Industries Inc. Postioner-Actuator-Manipulator
To obtain information, visit http://www.rnpind.com
or contact 1-888-697-5355 info@rnpind.com
