Optimizing Workplace and Employee Safety through Ergonomics: Scoping Review

Abstract

All aspects related to manual material handling if not done properly can result in losses and even accidents. One of the negative impacts of improper manual work handling is the onset of musculoskeletal complaints. To evaluate work postures, especially in production areas that are doing work, ergonomic principles must be applied. This literature research aims to, search for relevant literature related to the application of ergonomics, map the literature so that it can provide an understanding of the importance of ergonomics integration in work safety practices in various industrial sectors. This research uses a scoping review approach to identify, describe, and organize the literature related to optimizing work safety using ergonomic principles. The data collected in this study was gathered by searching scientific literature in online scientific databases using ScienceDirect using keywords and search phrases relevant to the research topic. The final 13 articles obtained were then analyzed, then the articles were classified into 2 topics, namely (1) the use of ergonomics interventions for employee safety and (2) the impact of ergonomics interventions on employee safety. The results of our review found that the application of ergonomics in occupational safety can result in a number of positive impacts on work and organizations such as improved safety, reduction of work-related injuries, increased productivity, reduced fatigue, improved work quality, and worker well-being.