An Ergonomic Analysis of Tricycle Sidecars in Quezon City

Abstract

Tricycles are considered one of the most popular modes of transportation in the Philippines, due to their accessibility and capability to drop off passengers at almost any point. However, passengers that ride in the tricycle sidecar are subject to awkward postures and motions that cause discomfort, according to different surveys. The aim of this research was to use different methods of ergonomic assessment to evaluate the factors that contribute to discomfort of passengers during 3 phases: while entering, riding, and exiting a tricycle. Multivariate analysis and logistic regression were used to determine the correlation between anthropometric measurements and the perception of discomfort, while RULA and REBA were used to provide postural analysis. 95 samples of anthropometric data were taken, along with surveys regarding the presence of discomfort during the 3 study phases. The results show that the two statistically significant factors in predicting discomfort were sitting height and popliteal height. The regression model also predicts a high probability of discomfort for passengers with average and above average anthropometric measurements, during all 3 study phases. However, passengers during ingress and egress motion had higher of experiencing discomfort than those riding inside the sidecar. The postural analysis further strengthens this result, as the ingress and egress motion scored 11 for REBA, concluding that the motions were high-risk and needed change immediately.