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Impact of social influence on construction workers' intention-to-use exoskeletons

Author(s): ORCID
ORCID
ORCID
Medium: journal article
Language(s): English
Published in: Smart and Sustainable Built Environment
DOI: 10.1108/sasbe-06-2023-0153
Abstract:

Purpose

Low back disorder is one of the most prevalent and costly injuries in the construction industry. Back-support exoskeletons are increasingly perceived as promising solutions. However, the intended benefits of exoskeletons may not be realized if intention-to-use the device is low. Social influence could increase intention-to-use exoskeletons. This study aims to evaluate the impact of social influence on construction workers' intention-to-use back-support exoskeletons.

Design/methodology/approach

A field study involving 37 construction workers was conducted, with workers who used exoskeleton for one week, and their peers and supervisors. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively.

Findings

The workers felt that the exoskeleton is easy to use and the functions are well integrated. Workers' intention-to-use exoskeleton was mainly influenced by employers providing and requiring the use of the device. The attitude of the workers and the perception of peers and supervisors did not have a significant impact on workers' intention-to-use exoskeleton, whereas the subjective norm of construction workers had a positive impact on the intention-to-use exoskeletons.

Research limitations/implications

The study involved only 37 workers, including 15 workers who used the exoskeleton, and 14 peers and 8 supervisors of the workers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing knowledge on the influence of social influence on intention-to-use exoskeletons. The study also highlights how exoskeleton designs and the construction workplace can influence behavioral intention-to-use exoskeletons.

Structurae cannot make the full text of this publication available at this time. The full text can be accessed through the publisher via the DOI: 10.1108/sasbe-06-2023-0153.
  • About this
    data sheet
  • Reference-ID
    10779609
  • Published on:
    12/05/2024
  • Last updated on:
    12/05/2024
 
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