Abstract
BackgroundAn ergonomic method of lifting (EML) was introduced to truck loaders in the South-western Nigeria blocks-making industry (BMI). The aim was to measure the ergonomics and economic benefits. MethodsWith 125 workers and 30 managers from 25 BMI, workers' self-adopted un-ergonomics methods of lifting (UML) were assessed at baseline. Workers then received ergonomics training. Actual lifting time, pace/time losses, task quality were measured pre and post-intervention in addition to a cost evaluation, at the 7th, 30th and 60th days into EML implementation, involving return-on-training-investment (ROTI) and ergonomics training-yield index (ErgoT-YI). Job demands and workers/managers' opinions about UML and EML were rated through questionnaires. ResultsUnder UML, 76% of the workers were frequently absent from work due to lifting-related injuries of which 84% complained of fatigue, back and shoulder pains. Performance under UML was 64% and rated 48% after EML implementation. The average actual productive time improved from 95% (UML) to 97% (EML). ROTIEML was better than ROTIUML by 18.5%. The calculated ErgoT-YI was 1.18 after 7days post-intervention and increased to 18.62 after 60 days, making EML superior to UML. An independent samples t-test showed a reduction in product/material wastage with EML (t = 7.900; p <.01, SED = 108.35)). Other benefits included reduced medical costs and absenteeism by 98.3% and 66.7% respectively. ConclusionEML can be a cost-effective way to improve the health and wellbeing of truck loaders. However, supervisors and workers may need to be informed of the economic benefits of this approach in order for it to be fully accepted.
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