Development of Ergonomically Designed Workstation for Sitting and Standing Workers in Production Area at TKS Auto Parts & Industrial Incorporation

Authors

  • R.J P. Curbano , K.M. Malijan , J.L.P. Marasigan , C.N.M. Martija , M.B. Virtudazo

Abstract

Ergonomics evaluates the relationship between ones’ body, tasks, and surroundings. The purpose of ergonomics is to
give the user the comfort while performing a specific task. This study is carried out to determine the physical
discomfort experienced by the workers at TKS Auto Parts and Industrial Incorporation, in sitting and standing
positions and to develop a countermeasure through ergonomically designed workstation. Some of the workers
experience musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) due to bad work postures. The employees participated in this study were
observed and assessed while they are performing their task. Nordic questionnaire were also given out to the
respondents to determine the level of physical discomfort experienced by them. Postures were assessed by using
Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) for ergonomic evaluation to
identify if it is still working above the secure limit. As for the workstation design, anthropometric analysis was used
which would not only incorporate adjustability, but also improve the level of comfort for the intended users. The
findings from this study showed that improper posture and inadequate workstation is the main contributing factor of
the occurrence of MSD among the workers. MSDs caused the workers to experience pain or fatigue that result in
absenteeism of the workers. Hence, the development of ergonomically designed workstation is needed.

Published

2020-03-31

Issue

Section

Articles