An Ergonomic Investigation of Musculoskeletal Strain in Laundry Ironers

Abstract

The laundry business in India is especially vulnerable to work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) due to a variety of variables such as ironing, awkward postures, repetitive duties, and so on. The goal of this case study is to investigate the severity of Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) among Indian laundry Ironers. Laundry Ironers in the laundry business are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with musculoskeletal problems. The purpose of this research study was to identify the areas that are dangerous for a professional washing clothes over the whole work cycle. Furthermore, it throws light on the workplace-related issues encountered by Laundry Ironers as a result of existing laundry methods and equipment, particularly when considering the environment and equipment used. This research includes a wide range of these laundry houses, as well as their economic position and ratings of the working conditions they offer. The postural evaluations were carried out using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), methodologies for measuring and comparing ergonomic risk factors associated with a person's employment. The findings and results from this study were used to examine workplace-related dangers for professionals involved in every step of ironing clothes. These findings were also applied to design suggestions and actions to enhance workplace ergonomics and appropriateness.