NeoSomaTech
Which exoskeleton to choose for working with arms overhead?
The answer in detail
Working with arms overhead, as in painting, ceiling assembly or maintenance, puts heavy strain on the shoulders. It is a distinct family of exoskeletons from back devices: the principle is to take over part of the arms' weight through springs, with no battery.
Two models in our catalog address this need. They are passive, meaning mechanical: range is unlimited, with no charging.
The choice depends first on posture. Static work with raised arms, such as painting a ceiling, does not call for the same support as a repeated gesture at shoulder height, such as driving screws in series. Our FRONT page states up to 2 kg per arm as standard, with 4 and 6 kg versions for heavier tools. The UP, more expensive, aims at holding the arms raised.
Two models in the catalog
| Model | Price | Weight | Stated principle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hapo UP | 4,200 euros | 1.87 kg | shoulder support when raised (arms overhead) |
| Hapo FRONT | 2,280 euros | 1.3 kg | up to 2 kg per arm as standard; 4 and 6 kg versions |
Both models carry CE marking under Directive 2006/42/EC and are made in France, according to their pages. They are not listed as personal protective equipment, a point INRS recalls in its frequently asked questions.
How to choose
- Identify the dominant posture: arms raised for long periods above the shoulders, or arms stretched forward.
- Compare the load carried with the support level stated for each model.
- Try the device on the real workstation, with the tools actually used, for a long enough period.
- Have the choice validated by the occupational physician and the company's prevention officer.
- Plan user training and a follow-up after the first weeks.
Limits and precautions
- No exoskeleton replaces work organization: alternate tasks and reduce forced postures.
- Support figures are manufacturer values, not measured by us.
- A device well chosen for one task can get in the way on another: test on the real workstation.
- This is not medical advice: if you have shoulder pain, consult a health professional.
On the framework for introducing an exoskeleton at work, read our article on the applicable rules.
Key takeaways
For overhead work, two passive Hapo models are in our catalog: the UP for raising the shoulders and the FRONT for relieving the arms, with support levels of 2, 4 and 6 kg per arm. Choose according to the real posture, test on the workstation and have it validated by the occupational physician. For a choice by job, read our industrial exoskeleton guide by job.