Employees at a Monoprix store in Paris are testing exoskeletons to assist with heavy lifting tasks, following a quality of working life agreement. The articulated mechanical structures aim to alleviate musculoskeletal disorders, promising reduced muscle strain during lifting. Despite some benefits, experts caution that they should complement existing safety measures rather than serve as a standalone solution. Monoprix intends to limit the use of exoskeletons to specific tasks while continuing efforts to enhance employee safety and health.
Since September, employees at a Monoprix store in the 11th arrondissement of Paris have been testing a novel approach to handling heavy loads. To assist with shelving tasks involving fruit and vegetable pallet trucks weighing 18 kg and water packs of 9 kg, staff members are wearing an exoskeleton—an “articulated mechanical structure” designed to alleviate musculoskeletal disorders, with an estimated cost of around 5,000 euros.
“Our trials arose from a quality of working life agreement established with our social partners,” explained Philippe Pirion, the HR Director at Monoprix. In this Paris location, measures were already in place to mitigate the exposure of employees to heavy lifting. According to the store manager, “employees take turns performing these tasks, and each session lasts no longer than an hour.” The feedback from staff has been positive; Irène, an employee, remarked, “The technology has significantly reduced my aches and pains.”
The exoskeleton’s manufacturer promises “reduced shoulder muscle activity and back relief,” and preliminary results from the store’s trial support some of these claims. For instance, employees must bend their legs and maintain a straight back when picking up a water pack from the ground. Moreover, lifting items to higher shelves requires noticeably less physical exertion. Laurent Kerangueven, a consulting expert at Inrs, noted, “Designers intend for the exoskeleton to partially offset the physical efforts required when handling loads,” yet he added that the burden is still ultimately carried by the employee.
The Health Risks of Handling Heavy Loads
The French National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS) underscores the dangers associated with lifting heavy objects, stating they can lead to “contusions, back pain, or muscle tears,” potentially classified as occupational diseases. The French National Health Insurance confirms that musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for over 80% of acknowledged occupational illnesses. As a result, Monoprix is optimistic that adopting exoskeleton technology will serve as “one of the solutions” for ensuring employee well-being.
However, it’s important to recognize that exoskeletons are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Although they may “relieve employees,” they might also introduce new challenges, such as skin irritations from the attachment mechanisms, impaired balance, or placing stress on different bodily areas. According to Laurent Kerangueven, “it’s essential to prioritize work organization.” Possible strategies include minimizing load weights, optimizing storage layouts to reduce handling, and educating employees about MSD risks. Kerangueven suggests that the use of exoskeletons should complement existing collective prevention efforts.
Monoprix is aware of these complexities, focusing on a “targeted application for specific, well-defined tasks.” Highlighting the company’s approach, Philippe Pirion stated, “Zero risk does not exist, but we conduct an annual social assessment to address all hazards our employees face.” This proactive strategy has reportedly contributed to risk reduction within the organization. For example, they introduced “constant load trolleys.” This system is designed to keep the weight of goods at hip level. Initially trialed in 2021, these carts have since become standard in “almost all stores.”