Ergonomic risk assessment of the production process of Company X, Calamba City, Laguna, Philippines
List of Authors
  • Micah A Ramirez , Princess B Roxas

Keyword
  • repetitive motion, awkward posture, risk assessment, RULA

Abstract
  • Production workers experience discomfort due to repetitive motions and exposure to prolonged awkward postures in their workplace. The highly manual mass production of kakanin products makes use of repetitive processes to meet high demand. This study evaluated the risk factors associated with the development of Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) among the workers. To analyze the ergonomic risks, selected postures of the repetitive activities were evaluated using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Results of the RULA assessment showed that Cassava cake has a risk level of 7, while Fresh Lumpia, Empanada, and Kutsinta/Piche-Piche have a risk level of 5-6 suggesting a need for ergonomic interventions. The results of postural analysis and motion study further strengthens this need as the work not only imposes risk but also consist of ineffective motions which do not advance work. It also revealed that there is an imbalance in effective and ineffective motions between the right-hand and the left-hand as measured by the percentage of time it consumes with respect to the cycle time. Controls and interventions recommended include stretching activities, increasing the worktable height, providing a sit-stand stool, redesigning work methods and work system, providing a holding or support device, and considering job rotation.

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