The agricultural sector, particularly greenhouse operations, has long been characterised by physically demanding, repetitive tasks that take a significant toll on workers’ bodies. However, a groundbreaking collaboration between Netherlands-based exoskeleton manufacturer Skelex and employment agency ProKonak is poised to transform this reality, introducing cutting-edge mechanical support devices that could revolutionise how agricultural workers perform their daily tasks.

The Innovation Behind the Partnership

Skelex, headquartered in The Hague, has developed sophisticated mechanical exoskeletons that provide targeted support to workers’ arms, shoulders, and lower back during repetitive and physically demanding activities. The company’s technology originated from rigorous research conducted at TU Delft and TNO, representing years of scientific development focused on preventing musculoskeletal complaints in the workplace.

ProKonak, a temporary employment agency also based in The Hague, specialises in recruitment, selection, staffing, and payrolling with a focus on providing flexible and motivated temporary workers to various industries. Recognising the physical challenges faced by agricultural workers, ProKonak has partnered with Skelex to pilot these innovative support devices in Dutch greenhouse operations, particularly in the Westland region near The Hague.

The Technology: Two Specialised Models

The pilot programme features two distinct Skelex exoskeleton models, each designed to address specific workplace challenges:

The Skelex 360 serves as the flagship model, providing comprehensive support for the back, shoulders, and arms. This device is particularly beneficial for installers, painters, pruners, and maintenance engineers who frequently work in overhead positions. The exoskeleton employs proprietary FlexFrame technology that adapts seamlessly to the user’s body shape while supporting natural shoulder joint movement. By transferring weight to the lower body, the Skelex 360 creates a weightless sensation in the arms, storing and releasing energy to compensate for gravity without requiring motors or external power sources.

The Skelex Edge focuses specifically on lower back support, designed for tasks involving bending, kneeling, and lifting from floor level. This model is particularly valuable for workers who spend extended periods in squatting positions or performing ground-level activities such as clipping potted plants.

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Real-World Applications in Greenhouse Operations

The pilot program addresses the most physically challenging aspects of greenhouse work. Workers using these exoskeletons receive support while performing tasks such as:

Tying tomato plants and other climbing vegetables to support structures
Pruning and trimming plants at various heights
Lifting and moving heavy crates filled with produce
Working in prolonged squatting positions for ground-level plant care
Maintaining equipment and structures in awkward positions

These activities, when performed repeatedly throughout long shifts, traditionally lead to significant muscle fatigue, joint strain, and potential long-term musculoskeletal injuries. The exoskeletons aim to mitigate these risks while maintaining or improving worker productivity.

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Exoskelet Skelex 2_Skelex — The Skelex 360, the flagship model, offers comprehensive support for the back, shoulders and arms. Photo: Skelex

Design Excellence and User Experience

A key factor in the success of these devices lies in their user-friendly design. The exoskeletons can be donned and removed in under 30 seconds, making them practical for workers who need to move between different types of tasks throughout their shifts. The devices adapt to different body types and working styles, supporting both static positions and dynamic movements.

The mechanical nature of these exoskeletons – requiring no external power source – ensures uninterrupted operation throughout the workday. This reliability is crucial in agricultural settings where workers cannot afford equipment downtime that might impact productivity or crop care schedules.

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Measurable Impact and Future Expansion

The collaboration aims to deliver tangible benefits across multiple dimensions. By reducing physical strain and fatigue, the exoskeletons are expected to decrease injury rates and associated healthcare costs. Workers report improved comfort during long shifts, which translates to better job satisfaction and potentially reduced turnover rates in an industry that often struggles with labour retention.

The pilot’s success metrics extend beyond worker comfort to include productivity improvements and enhanced work quality. When workers experience less fatigue, they can maintain consistent performance levels throughout their shifts and potentially extend their working careers in physically demanding roles.

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Exoskelet Skelex 3_Skelex — The Skelex Edge focuses on supporting the lower back and is designed to provide support when workers bend over, kneel or lift objects from the ground. Photo: Skelex

Looking Ahead

If the current pilot proves successful, ProKonak plans to expand exoskeleton implementation to other production phases, including packaging and logistics operations. This expansion could establish a new standard for workplace ergonomics in the Dutch horticulture sector and potentially influence agricultural practices globally.

The Skelex-ProKonak partnership represents more than just a technological advancement; it embodies a fundamental shift toward prioritising worker welfare while maintaining operational efficiency. As the pilot continues to generate data and feedback, it may well serve as a blueprint for similar implementations across various industries where repetitive, physically demanding work remains the norm.

This innovative approach to workplace ergonomics demonstrates how targeted technology applications can address longstanding industry challenges, potentially transforming the agricultural workforce’s daily experience while maintaining the productivity demands of modern farming operations.