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Session 2793

Paraplegic Trainees and Operators in Engineering/Technology Environments.

E.P. O’Herlihy, W.F. Gaughran

Department of Manufacturing and Operations Engineering, University of Limerick.

Abstract

Research indicates that there is very little integration in training and operations in engineering manufacture and processing, of a highly valuable human resource – wheelchair users. As the general population are shifting in age balance and most are living longer the proportion of people who are wheelchair users will increase. Consequently the need to meaningfully include people with physical disabilities in the workforce will increase dramatically. Both economically and socially paraplegics are a valuable asset and have much to offer in engineering environments, which will benefit all. By integrating paraplegics in the engineering environment, areas such as safety, ergonomics, access, workspace design and layout will enhance training and working conditions for all.

The problems identified for solution, by the ongoing research at the University of Limerick, in endeavouring to integrate the paraplegic user in engineering environments are both practical and attitudinal. This paper will discuss four key areas relating to educational and operational inclusivity of paraplegic wheelchair users into engineering workshop and classroom environments. These are safety, access, bench design/work-area design and stand- drill design. The research shows that, by addressing and combining these elements a range of previously unavailable activities may be undertaken by wheelchair users in a safe and productive environment. Key words/phrases: Paraplegic ergonomics, safety, inclusive design.

Introduction

If trends and proportions internationally of wheelchair users in engineering environments are similar to that in Ireland then there is a major task to be undertaken to integrate wheelchair users. The integration of the wheelchair user into the Irish education system is currently inadequate. At present there is little evidence of wheelchair users being involved in engineering/technology environments. Research carried out on 121 post primary schools in Ireland indicated that only thirty-eight students who use wheelchairs were studying, out of student population of 54,793. Of the thirty-eight only four were involved in engineering/ technology subjects.

Proceedings of the 2002 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright Ó 2002, American Society for Engineering Educati on

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O Herlihy, E., & Gaughran, W. (2002, June), Paraplegic Trainees And Operators In Engineering/Technology Environments Paper presented at 2002 Annual Conference, Montreal, Canada. 10.18260/1-2--11181