Jay Kapellusch, PhD

Speaker Topics

• Occupational Biomechanics
• Occupational Physical Exposure Assessments and Modeling
• Human Centered Design for Manufacturing Systems

Interests & Expertise

Jay Kapellusch’s primary research interests are in development of quantitative ergonomics job design algorithms that can be proactively used to design highly productive, safe jobs in manufacturing and service industries.

He is working to integrate these algorithms with modern Industrial Engineering philosophies, such as Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma, as well as traditional Industrial Engineering tools and techniques, such as methods engineering and statistical quality control, to provide industry with a comprehensive job design system.

On a parallel track, Kapellusch is interested in studying the physical capabilities of older and disabled populations with the primary objective of developing simple yet effective devices and/or equipment that would enable these individuals to be more functional and productive members of society.

He also works with members of the UWM Center for Ergonomics to build upon his ergonomics systems work with industry to create comprehensive job risk management software, training packages and to extend state of art consulting services/resources to industry on a “fee for service” basis.

Recent Funded Grants

Preventing Work Injuries and Chronic Illnesses in Truckers (4/1/2007 – 3/31/2010)
Centers for Disease Control, NIOSH

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Dr. Arun Garg (Subcontract from University of Utah)

GOAL: Perform cross-sectional study of 1,000 truck (≤ 10,000 lbs.) drivers in two states to identify risk factors leading to elevated prevalence rates of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and sleep disorders, as well as increased tobacco use, and prescription and over the counter medication use relative to industrial workers and the general population. Compare Commercial Driver Medical Examination (CDME) with questionnaire, blood test and urinalysis results to develop an improved CDME. Develop and pilot test a truck driver health promotion program.

The primary objective of this study is to address factors that shorten drivers’ careers, shorten CDL certifications and contribute to increased incident of motor vehicle crashes and other injuries.

ROLE on PROJECT: Collect and analyze data for the Wisconsin sub-contract. Assist with development of improved CDME and “health promotion program.” Conduct pilot test of health promotion program in Wisconsin.