A Monash University graduate’s breakthrough design is aiming to reduce workplace injury rates for paramedics, which are among the highest in Australia.
Anja Johansen created the Paramedic Equipment Trolley (P.E.T) to minimise stress injuries for paramedics by providing an easier way to transport heavy equipment.
Manual handling is an inherent part of the job for paramedics, who could be carrying bags weighing up to 13 kilograms while providing medical care on-site or during transport to hospitals.
A 2023 Monash University study revealed that paramedics experience significantly higher rates of work-related injuries compared to other Australian workers. The study found that musculoskeletal injuries were the most common type of injury (64 per cent) among paramedics, with manual handling (62 per cent) being the leading cause.
Johansen developed the P.E.T in her Bachelor of Industrial Design unit. She hopes her design will improve the health and efficiency of paramedics, helping them deliver vital emergency care.
“Healthcare workers are our everyday heroes, and it was surprising to see that there were no design solutions addressing the challenges of their demanding work environment and high injury rates,” Johansen said.
“This project will be especially crucial for single responders who are required to carry equipment on their own.”
The P.E.T integrates into an ambulance’s existing bag tower and features a hydraulic lever that allows paramedics to load and unload bags and other items. The trolley can manoeuvre easily with its tri-wheels, and is also significantly lighter than other prototypes, weighing at just five kilograms.
Dr Giorgia Pisano, from Monash Art, Design and Architecture (MADA), said the Industrial Design unit nurtured students' social sensitivity and critical thinking.
“It encouraged them to address complex issues and drive meaningful change, all while preparing them for self-directed work and professional practice,” Dr Pisano said.
Professor Gene Bawden, Head of Design at MADA, said Johansen’s project demonstrated the depth of responsibility and care with which Monash graduates enter the design industry.
“Her thoughtful response to the wellbeing of healthcare workers was informed by careful user engagement, prototyping, and the unique possibilities open to Monash design students,” Professor Bawden said.
The P.E.T was recently showcased at Monash University’s MADA Now 2024 exhibition, an annual event that highlights the creative works of graduating students. This year’s exhibition featured student projects that tackle pressing global challenges.
View the media kit for:
-
Images of the Paramedic Equipment Trolley (P.E.T)
-
Video interview with Monash graduate Anja Johansen
View the MADA Now 2024 projects here
- ENDS -
MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Deniz Uzgun
Media Communications Officer, Monash University
M: +61 418 544 927
GENERAL MEDIA ENQUIRIES
Monash Media
T: +61 (0) 3 9903 4840
For more Monash media stories, visit our news and events site