Appliances for paviours: an evaluation of purchase and use

Abstract

The results are presented of a study to evaluate a subsidy scheme designed by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment in The Netherlands in 1986. Every paving company that bought a specified appliance in that year could receive an allowance of 50% of the costs. The aim of the research was to enlarge the knowledge of the use of appliances in practice and to pass this new knowledge on in leaflets for different target groups.

We visited companies who had applied for a subsidy as well as companies who had not done so. Employers and employees were interviewed and the use of appliances was observed in practice. We investigated economic aspects, quality aspects and the effect on the working conditions of various appliances.

It was proved that some appliances can have a positive effect on the physical workload by eliminating tasks such as carrying and lifting heavy materials. Some important prejudices and barriers that impede the purchase and use of appliances were established. The study also showed some advantages and disadvantages of a subsidy scheme as a tool for marketing ergonomics.

Keywords:

• Evaluation
• Subsidy scheme
• Appliances
• Paviours
• Physical workload
• Introduction.