Acceptability of Industrial Exoskeletons in Chilean Mining Maintenance: A Cross-Sectional, Age-Stratified Survey

This cross-sectional survey of 85 maintenance workers at a Chilean mining company examined acceptability of industrial exoskeletons. Likert items were analyzed by age group (30 or younger, 31 to 40, 41 or older). Willingness to use was high with device knowledge low. Older workers reported lower expected helpfulness and greater distrust (errors). Musculoskeletal discomfort concentrated in the lower back and upper limbs, consistent with tasks identified for assistance. Open-ended responses highlighted expectations of pain and effort relief, alongside constraints of space, fit, and training. Findings indicate favorable social acceptability with practical gaps for implementation pilots integrated with ergonomic controls.