Ergonomic Risk Factors Research Articles

Promoting safety of underground machinery operators through participatory ergonomics and fuzzy model analysis to foster sustainable mining practices

One of the most vital parameters to achieve sustainability in any field is encompassing the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) of the workers. In mining industry where heavy earth moving machineries are largely employed, ergonomic hazards turn out to be significant OHS hazards causing Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in the operators. Nevertheless, the Indian mining industry lacks a comprehensive technique of OHS risk assessment, especially for ergonomic hazards that cause MSDs. This research appraises ergonomic hazards and develops Fuzzy Musculoskeletal-disorders Index (FMI) model to evaluate ergonomic-related MSDs. Work process and work tool ergonomic risk factors were identified through literature review and directives recommended by experts. Work posture was evaluated using RULA. The data-collecting approach was implemented using participatory ergonomic and design science principles. The FMI results show average MSDs score of 3.69, indicating high to extremely high risk. Surface plots show that combined work tool and work process was the most sensitive factors to MSDs risk compared to other two combinations. A two-sample t-test validated the FMI. The findings should help safety experts and managers develop effective OHS management plans and programmes for the sustainability of Indian mining industry.

Assessment of Ergonomic Risk Factors among Metal Sculpture Workers and Future Scope of AI Applications in Ergonomic Evaluation

Background: Handicraft workers usually carry out daily activities by adopting awkward postures. The most prevailing health issues among handicraft workers are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Objective: The current research aims to assess the occurrence of musculoskeletal symptoms and investigate risk factors associated with musculoskeletal disorders among metal sculpture artisans. Subsequently, the study highlighted the future scope of AI applications in ergonomic evaluation. Methods: 144 male metal sculpture workers participated in the study. A modified Nordic questionnaire was adopted to determine the musculoskeletal problems among metal sculpture workers. The probable risk elements for MSD symptoms were identified by applying binary logistic regression. Results: Most workers faced discomfort in various body parts, particularly the wrist, lower back, and shoulders. The outcome of the logistic regression model revealed that job-related factors have significantly contributed to the development of MSD symptoms. Conclusion: This study concedes that awkward working postures for prolonged periods highly affect the health of metal sculpture workers, and there is a need for ergonomic intervention to minimize the risks of musculoskeletal disorders. The study also emphasizes the future scope of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications that can be used in ergonomically assessing working postures.

Method for synthesis of models for assessing the state of ram memory of operators of human-machine systems based on fuzzy decision making logic

The purpose of the research is to develop a method for synthesizing models for assessing the state of RAM of operators of human-machine systems, the use of which in the decisive rules for predicting and diagnosing the states of RAM and its blocks ensures an increase in the quality of decisions made.Methods. To monitor the state of various RAM blocks, the following set of techniques was selected: searching for a signal in noise; "identification"; full reproduction; identification of missing digits; Memory. To select an adequate mathematical research apparatus, an exploratory analysis of the structure of the processed data was carried out, during which it was found that the selected classes of RAM states are of a fuzzy nature with uncertain boundaries of their intersections. Taking into account the peculiarities of the processed data, the selected methodology was modified by developing a new method for fuzzy assessment of the state of RAM based on the characteristics of its properties in combination with informative features characterizing the ergonomics of the workplace, the environmental component and individual risk factors.Results. In the course of the research, a model was synthesized for predicting the appearance and development of dysfunctions of RAM in operators of information-rich systems, characterized by the use of indicators characterizing the state of RAM blocks as predictors, which allows one to obtain confidence in the correct decision-making of no worse than 0,85.Conclusion. In the course of the studies, it was shown that in order to improve the quality indicators of forecasting and diagnosing the states of RAM and its blocks, when synthesizing the corresponding decision rules, indicators characterizing the state of RAM blocks, energy imbalance of BAP, ergonomic and individual risk factors should be taken into account. With this approach, in forecasting problems, confidence in the correct decision-making is achieved at least 0,85. In the tasks of diagnosing the early stages of RAM disorders among operators of information-rich systems, confidence in correct decision-making exceeds 0,95.

Ergonomic analysis in nuclear decommissioning: A comprehensive path planning strategy for workers well-being

Recent studies on path planning in nuclear decommissioning focus on efficient algorithms, often overlooking workers’ physical and cognitive well-being. However, there is a need to consider the effect of the paths recommended by algorithms on workers’ health to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders. This study introduces a computational dynamic body map tool designed to assess and monitor musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among workers in high-risk decommissioning environments. Utilizing color-coded body maps, the study identifies key ergonomic risk factors and their impact on different body parts. The strategy begins by identifying job tasks requiring ergonomic assessment, distilling the tasks into different activities and the time spent on each activity, and using the result to dynamically compute the average pain severity experienced by workers across different body parts. Subsequent body mapping, hazard surveys, and structured interviews are used to rank workplace risks and worker-specific risk factors. The major contribution of this work is the development of a computational dynamic tool to regularly track worker body maps regularly, ensuring optimal performance. To evaluate the proposed strategy, the study utilized data from a 35-response online MSD questionnaire for safety professionals. To demonstrate the methodology across diverse roles, 10 worker examples were analyzed, aligning with 5 key IAEA nuclear decommissioning categories. Analysis of the computational dynamic body map data reveals specific pain distributions among workers. The most severe pain occurs in the lower back (13.08 %), followed by the right wrist/hand (10 %), the right shoulder, the left elbow (8.46 % each), the left shoulder, the upper back (7.69 % each), the neck and the left wrist/hand (6.92 % each). The findings further reveal that the 36–45 years age category experiences the most pain. In addition, awkward posture was found in the study to be the most likely ergonomic risk factor affecting workers. The results show that incorporating ergonomics into path planning aids risk-informed decision-making for ergonomic interventions and continuous monitoring to maintain a safe and healthier workplace. Integrating the tool presented in this work with a conventional path-planning algorithm provides a comprehensive path-planning strategy for nuclear decommissioning.

Structural equation modeling approach for the analysis of ergonomics risk factors and occupational injuries among building construction workers in Bahir Dar City-Ethiopia

Ergonomic risk factors are a prominent cause of fatality and severe injuries in building constructions. Hence, this study applies a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach to analyze ergonomics risk factors and occupational injuries among building construction workers in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia. The results indicate significant relationships between ergonomics risk factors and the prevalence of occupational injuries. This study's findings contribute to the understanding of occupational health and safety in the construction industry, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. A cross-sectional study has been carried out, where data was collected through direct observations and standardized pretested questionnaires. The study recruited 220 participants in the construction industry. The data was analyzed using AMOS to study the direct and indirect effects of the identified variable. SEM has shown that the magnitude of the prevalence of occupational injury was 65.2 %. The results also revealed that the mostly affected body parts were lower arm, lower leg, hand, toe, and knee. Carpenter & roofers, plasterer and daily labors & other helpers were highly injury subjected occupations in respective order. The six leading significant risk factors were, do not tie belt at scaffold, falling stairways & ladders, exposure hazardous substances, tools & machinery, electricity (electric power accidents), repetitive tasks, the layout didn't consider health & safety aspects in the site, and do not provide safety orientation for new workers engaging the job. Employees are mostly affected on their lower body parts which needs more focus to prevent it, especially carpenter & roofers, plasterer and daily labors. Also the findings show that 50 % of respondents agree that the higher priority for safety and health management practices should be given to finishing part of the construction followed by excavation and earth work, masonry, and electrical installations. Therefore, it is recommended that the contractors must focus more on the finishing phase.

Ergonomic risk in the management of the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

Introduction: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatrography is the therapeutic method of choice to treat biliopancreatic diseases. The complexity of the endoscopic procedure, learning curves, duration, and the demand for the service in health institutions, condition the presence of ergonomic risks in the domain of the multidisciplinary team that intervenes in the technique.Objective: To describe about possible ergonomic risk factors in the management of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. Methods: A search was carried out in the Google Academic/Scholar, PUBMED, SciELO Regional, SciELO Public Health, SciELO Cuba engines. In the search strategy, the terms were used: endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, ergonomic risks, ergonomic risk perception in the working population. The documents were evaluated at length and a summary document of the information was developed.Results: Dynamic and static postures, repetitive movements, load manipulation, psychological load and visual fatigue are considered risk factors that require greater attention in relation to the activities involved in the technique.Conclusions: Possible ergonomic risk factors in the endoscopic procedure were described. The complex activities that derive from the procedure and their relationship with the specialties involved were considered, in order to promote occupational health, sustainability and the transition towards excellence in the services provided.

Work-related musculoskeletal complaints: risk factors and impact on work productivity among university administrative employees

BackgroundWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant workplace problem leading to loss of productivity and disability. Administrative workers perform computer-based tasks for long periods. Consequently, they are at risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. The objective of this study was to explore the frequency and risk factors of work-related musculoskeletal complaints and their impact on work productivity among administrative employees of Suez Canal University, Egypt.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 administrative employees through simple random sampling. Data were collected by an interview questionnaire including sociodemographic, work-related data, ergonomic and psychological risk factors, the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and the World Health Organization Health and Work Performance Questionnaire (HPQ).ResultsThe frequency of work-related musculoskeletal complaints in at least one anatomical region over the past year was 74.7%. Neck (47.1%), lower back (40.7%), and shoulder (36.3%) were the most reported sites of complaints. Risk factors significantly associated with work-related musculoskeletal complaints were gender, age, physical activity, work experience, workplace stress, sustained body position, awkward posture, and inadequate rest breaks. Logistic regression revealed that older age (OR = 1.039, p = 0.023), being female (OR = 2.175, p = 0.011), and not having adequate rest breaks (OR = 1.979, p = 0.019) were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. The risk factors of absenteeism include gender, age, marital status, educational level, physical activity, BMI, work experience, and musculoskeletal complaints.ConclusionMusculoskeletal problems were highly prevalent among administrative employees. Being female and not having adequate rest breaks were significant predictors for the occurrence of WMSDs. Ergonomic interventions and improvement of working conditions are recommended to reduce WMSDs.

Computer vision syndrome and ergonomic risk factors among workers of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: an institutional-based cross-sectional study.

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is the most pressing public health concern that affects vision and reduces quality of life and productivity, particularly in developing countries. Most of the previous studies conducted in Ethiopia focus on the knowledge and personal risk factors of bank workers. Moreover, ergonomic workstation design was not objectively assessed, which could hinder the implementation of effective intervention strategies. Therefore, this study aimed to determine CVS and ergonomic factors among commercial bank workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 466 study participants from May 26 to July 24, 2022. A multistage sampling technique was applied to select the study participants. Data were collected via a standardized tool of CVS (CVS-Q). Besides, workstation ergonomics were pertinently assessed. The collected data was entered into EpiData version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 26 for data analysis and cleaning. Multivariable logistics regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with CVS. The variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant factors. Prevalence of CVS was 75.3% (95% CI: 71.2-79.2%). Blurred vision, eye redness, and headache, 59.8%, 53.7%, and 50.7%, respectively, were frequently reported symptoms. Glare (AOR = 4.45: 95% CI: 2.45-8.08), 20-20-20 principle (AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.06-3.67), wearing non-prescription eyeglasses (AOR = 4.17; 95% CI: 1.92-9.06), and poor workstation (AOR = 7.39; 95% CI: 4.05-13.49) was significantly associated with CVS. The prevalence of CVS was found to be high. Glare at work, ignoring the 20-20-20 principle, wearing non-prescription eyeglasses, and poor workstation ergonomic design were independent predictors of CVS. Therefore, comprehensive interventional activities like adhering to the 20-20-20 principle, avoiding the use of non-prescription glasses, minimizing glare, and improving workstation ergonomic setup are essential to prevent CVS.

Assessment of musculoskeletal disorders among palm oil farmers with SNI 9011:2021 in Muara Wahau

Indonesia is the world's largest producer of palm oil, with millions of hectares of plantations. However, along with the growth of the palm oil industry, various challenges and issues related to the worker welfare have emerged. One important issue is musculoskeletal disorders or health problems associated with work in palm oil plantations. Workers in palm oil plantations are often exposed to heavy and repetitive work conditions, such as carrying heavy loads, performing monotonous movements, and working in non-ergonomic positions. These factors can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, such as back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, and other health issues. Therefore, this research aims to evaluate existing musculoskeletal disorders and provide recommendations for improvement and management of ergonomic risks in PT. DSN in Muara Wahau. The research methods include direct observation of palm oil farmers during their work, structured interviews to gather information on complaints and ergonomic risks, and the use of ergonomic analysis methods in accordance with the SNI 9011:2021 standard. The data obtained will be analyzed to identify ergonomic risk factors contributing to musculoskeletal disorders. The results of this study showed that all of palm oil harvesting workers experienced high risk level on their neck, while all of palm oil transportation workers encountered high risk on their elbow. Stretching or warm-up exercises before and after work were recommended to reduce the risk of injuries caused by non-ergonomic work positions among harvesting workers. Furthermore, redesigning Hook-T was recommended in order to minimize the MSD among palm oil transportation workers.

Analisa Postur Kerja untuk Mengukur Risiko Cedera Dengan Metode Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires, Rapid Upper Limb Assessment dan Rapid Entire Body Assessment

PT. XYZ is a company that focuses on providing construction materials such as ready mix concrete. The workforce is currently in decline due to the reduced prevalence of work behavior. The initial 1 hour produced 100m3 but the realization in the Company only produced 50m3. The purpose of this study was to measure the potential risk of musculoskeletal injury caused by non-ergonomic work postures. The methods used in this study are Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). This study found a significant relationship between the level of musculoskeletal discomfort obtained in respondents through CMDQ with ergonomic risk factors identified through RULA and REBA analysis. These can include poor body position, repetitive movements, or excessive workload. These findings could help in the development of theories regarding ergonomics and factors related to worker health and well-being.

Trends and risk factors in musculoskeletal disorders among stomatologists

Introduction: Dentists, due to their work, are prone to suffer problems in the locomotor system, a situation that can sometimes limit their work performance. These problems can cause anything from mild musculoskeletal symptoms to incapacity, putting not only their health at risk but also severely reducing their professional performance. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive observational epidemiological study was carried out with a sample of 35 stomatologists of both sexes. The stomatologists' data were recorded in self-recognition surveys and data collection forms, in order to group the individual, biomechanical and ergonomic risk factors present in the sample. Results: The female sex predominated with 71.4%, as well as the age group 35 to 44 years (42.8%). Musculoskeletal disorders prevailed in the female sex with 62.8%, the most affected specialty, the EGI with 42.9%, stomatologists with 11 to 20 years of work (37.1%). Predominant was the preference for seated work (74.3%) and the use of inadequate postures (65.7%). The cervical and sacrolumbar areas were the most affected 85.7% and 57.1% respectively. Conclusions: A close relationship was found between inadequate postures and non-ergonomic dental units with the occurrence of musculoskeletal disorders in the stomatologists in the sample.

Ergonomic wellness for the trainee in gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Endoscopy-related injuries (ERIs) are prevalent in gastrointestinal endoscopy. The aim of this review is to address the growing concern of ERIs by evaluating the ergonomic risk factors and the efficacy of interventions and educational strategies aimed at mitigating these risks, including novel approaches. ERIs are highly prevalent, exacerbated by factors such as repetitive strain, nonneutral postures, suboptimal equipment design, and the procedural learning curve. Female sex and smaller hand sizes have been identified as specific risk factors. Recent guidelines underscore the importance of ergonomic education and the integration of ergonomic principles into the foundational training of gastroenterology fellows. Advances in equipment design focus on adaptability to different hand sizes and ergonomic positions. Furthermore, the incorporation of microbreaks and macrobreaks, along with neutral monitor and bed positioning, has shown promise in reducing the incidence of ERIs. Wearable sensors may be helpful in monitoring and promoting ergonomic practices among trainees. Ergonomic wellness is paramount for gastroenterology trainees to prevent ERIs and ensure a sustainable career. Effective strategies include ergonomic education integrated into curricula, equipment design improvements, and procedural adaptations such as scheduled breaks and optimal positioning. Sensor-based and camera-based systems may allow for education and feedback to be provided regarding ergonomics to trainees in the future.

Čimbenici rizika i učestalost mišićno-koštanih tegoba radnika pri radu u tehnici batika uzrokovanih položajem tijela i rada mišića ruku

The batik industry as one of Malaysian cultural heritage is mainly located on the East Coast of Malaysia, particularly in the states of Kelantan and Terengganu. Most of the industry is home-based. Hence, the traditional batik work environment and tasks impose threats to the well-being of the artisans. This study investigates ergonomic issues and the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in two of Kelantan’s batik industries. The artisans’ natural working postures and the environments of the two places were observed and video recorded. Muscle activations on the wrist of the artisan doing the paint (canting) were imitated. Surface electromyography (sEMG) investigations were performed in the laboratory. A questionnaire survey was also distributed among craftsmen and artisans involved in the batik industry in Kelantan. Results illustrate evidence of the need to educate batik industries on ergonomic risk factors. According to the survey of 33 respondents, the most affected body parts are the waist (60%), back and feet (57%). The walkthroughs and site visits showed that batik making process demands awkward postures which include standing, precision handling of hand tools, trunk bending &amp; rotating and overreaching repetitively between 4 to 8 hours. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) index obtained from the assessments ranges from 7-8. It was also shown from the sEMG data that trunk bending affects muscle contraction of the wrist during painting movement. Therefore, immediate interventions are required to improve batik artisans’ postural working conditions, especially on the neck, trunk, legs, wrists and arms.

Ergonomic Assessment of Septorhinoplasty Maneuvers During Simulated Pregnancy.

Women represent an increasing proportion of the otolaryngology workforce. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) are a little-studied yet important impediment to career completion. Scant attention has been directed to study the impact of pregnancy on surgeon posture and ergonomics. We piloted the use of a pregnancy simulation suit (Empathy Belly) to assess the risk of ergonomic compromise when performing open septorhinoplasty. Surgical simulation. Single session, training simulation lab at academic medical center. Medical students and surgical residents performed the initial steps of a rhinoplasty procedure without and with a pregnancy simulation suit and were filmed with an artificial intelligence-based video analysis app from Kinetica Labs that calculates joint angles and categorizes the ergonomic risk factors. Still images from videos were taken and analyzed using validated posture-based analysis rubrics. Participants were asked to complete a qualitative questionnaire after the session. Twelve medical students and surgical residents participated in the study. Posture-based analysis indicated increased ergonomics risk factors among trainees when performing a rhinoplasty while wearing the pregnancy suit. Video analysis indicated trends of worsening back angle and shoulder postures. Trainees reported experiencing pain in the neck, suprapubic area, and lower back. They acknowledged the importance of ergonomics in otolaryngology and desired further education about workplace injury risk mitigation. Pregnancy impacts the ergonomics of performing septorhinoplasty and further investigation is required into interventions to reduce risk of WRMSDs.

Occupational Fatigue and Its Relationship with Musculoskeletal Disorders and Heat Stress among the Workers of Summer Crops in Southeast Iran in 2021.

This research aimed to evaluate work fatigue and its relationship with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and heat stress (WBGT) among greenhouse workers in Jiroft County, southeast Iran. This cross-sectional study was carried out between September 2021 and February 2022 among 150 workers in summer crop greenhouses. Data were collected by a demographic questionnaire, the Swedish occupational fatigue inventory (SOFI-20), and the Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaire (NMQ), and wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) was measured as per ISO 7243. The collected data were analyzed by the χ2 test, logistic regression, and multivariable linear regression in the Stata 17.0 software. The results showed a higher total fatigue score among the studied workers (mean = 100.71 out of 200). Among the fatigue dimensions, the three dimensions of lack of energy, physical discomfort, and physical exertion had the highest scores of 27.28, 26.71, and 25.71, respectively. The highest rate of MSD prevalence was in the back (54.7%), neck (50.7%), and shoulders (49.3%). Based on ISO 7243, the mean WBGT was beyond the allowed level for most tasks for greenhouse workers. There was a statistically significant relationship between occupational fatigue with MSDs and WBGT. Given the relatively high score reported for fatigue and its relationship with MSDs and heat stress, it is recommended to conduct further and more applied studies to investigate the approaches to alleviating heat stress and physical ergonomic risk factors in greenhouses in this occupational group.

A STUDY OF ERGONOMICS AND ITS EFFECT ON THE HOUSEKEEPING EMPLOYEES

Background: Ergonomics is the science of designing work as per the human body, it is used by the management to make the work processes safe for their workers. Housekeeping involves lots of physical work, therefore it is necessary that such research should be done on housekeeping department employees. Objectives: The objectives of this study were: to understand the application of ergonomics in the housekeeping department, to study the effects and challenges of ergonomics on the members of the housekeeping team, and to explore the awareness of ergonomics amongst the housekeeping employees. Methodology: The research design was a combination of experimental &amp; descriptive. 100 housekeepers from 4 &amp; 5 star hotels in Delhi-NCR were participants of the work. A questionnaire consisting of close ended and few open-ended questions was circulated among the respondents on one to one basis. To study the fatigue rate while working, oxygen and pulse rate of the respondents was also recorded. Data analysis was done on the basis of gender. Results: The findings state that 98% of the housekeeping department employees were aware about the concept of ergonomics and its application in housekeeping. Unfortunately, due to constraint of time and tight work schedule, a housekeeper cannot always follow the practices of ergonomic. Oxygen level decreased (98.15±0.08) after doing the task and the pulse rate increased (95.54±1.52) after completing their task. Conclusion: Housekeepers are exposed to a range of ergonomic risk factors and are prone to posture related injuries. It has also been seen that there is a substantial difference in level of energy lost when the housekeepers are working in a hurry.

The relationship between the level of postural stress, Musculoskeletal Disorders, and chronic fatigue: A case study in the dairy industry.

Dairy industry workers face numerous ergonomic risk factors in their workplace, including improper posture, manual material handling, and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Fewstudies have been conducted on the correlation of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue among workers in the dairy industry. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of postural stress, MSDs, and chronic fatigue in a dairy company. In this cross-sectional study, 260 male workers were included in the research based on specific inclusion criteria. The Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, Chalder Fatigue Scale, and a researcher-made demographic questionnaire were used to collect data. The posture of workers was evaluated using RULA and REBA software, and the evaluation of the manual lifting of loads was assessed using the WISHA lifting calculator. Finally, the collected data were entered into the SPSS software version 26.0 and analyzed. The findings revealed a significant statistical relationship between the level of postural stress and chronic fatigue and a significant positive correlation between MSDs and chronic fatigue. Furthermore, a statistically significant relationship was observed between MSDs, chronic fatigue, and ergonomics training experience. The results obtained in this study support the notion that high levels of postural stress and MSDs can produce an increase in chronic fatigue among workers, and lack of ergonomics training for workers can increase both MSDs and chronic fatigue. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out intervention measures in the field of ergonomics management in similar industries through the implementation of ergonomic intervention programs with a focus on proactive and preventive measures and the use of participatory ergonomic programs and educational demands assessment.

A Review of Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Rubber Tappers in Thailand, Malaysia, India, and Sri Lanka

Rubber tapping is regarded as an occupational risk for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). The impact of MSDs on the individual and their ability to work varies significantly from person to person. MSDs can cause work-limiting pain and fatigue which many people feel unable to disclose. A literature review of 14 papers on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among rubber tappers research in four selected countries Thailand, India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. The highest number of articles were identified from Thailand, the country having the highest production of rubber. Follow by India, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka. Ergonomic risk factors cause wide range of occupational related diseases among agriculture workers especially rubber plantation population. In view of limited study on prevalence of MSD among rubber tapper in Malaysia, this study was attempted to determine the prevalence of MSD among rubber tapper based on article selection. The highest number of articles were identified from Thailand, the country having the highest production of rubber.

Impacts of ergonomic risk factors on the well-being and innovation capability of employees in the manufacturing industry

Objectives. Although various studies have examined the relationship between ergonomic factors and employee well-being, the impacts of ergonomic factors on workers’ capability for innovation have not yet been studied in the manufacturing industry. This study advances understanding of the relationship between ergonomic risk factors and employees’ capability to innovate and to feel good at work in the manufacturing sector. Methods. The analysis uses the structural equation modeling technique based on cross-sectional data collected from 200 experienced workers in manufacturing industries using self-administered close-ended questionnaires. Results. Findings from this research show that the main ergonomic factors influencing the well-being and innovation capability of employees in the manufacturing industry are neutral awkward posture, psychological risk factors and effective utilization of information and communications technology infrastructures. Thus, ergonomic factors are significantly correlated to the innovation capability of employees. Conclusion. As there have been no studies addressing the integration of ergonomic risk factors and the capability for innovation of employees in the manufacturing industry, this study provides a unique contribution to the body of knowledge. Further research is also required to develop an in-depth understanding of the relationship among components of each ergonomic risk factor, and the well-being and innovation capability of employees.

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk assessment among radiologists and gastroenterologists using the workplace ergonomic risk assessment method

Background. Ergonomic risk factors in the workplace expose gastroenterologists and radiologists to Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs). This study aims to compare the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk factors in these two groups of physicians. &#x0D; Materials and methods. This descriptive study was conducted on 360 physicians (radiologists and gastroenterologists) at the 5 University and teaching hospitals in Tehran. The prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms was detected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. The Workplace Ergonomic Risk Assessment (WERA) method was used to estimate and evaluate the ergonomic risk factors in each physician. Finally, the frequency of musculoskeletal disorders was compared between the two groups using statistical tests. &#x0D; Results. The prevalence of shoulder (70% vs 36.66%; OR=4.03 (2.59–6.25); p&lt;0.001) and hand pain (45% vs 30%; OR=2.78 (1.80–4.31); p&lt;0.001) among radiologists was significantly higher than that among gastroenterologists. In contrast, gastroenterologists had a significantly higher prevalence of upper (65% vs 38.33%; OR=2.98 (1.94–4.58); p&lt;0.001) and lower back pain (67.2% vs 49.44%; OR=2.55 (2.06–3.17); p&lt;0.001) than radiologists. The mean WERA final score, the leg score, forceful score, contact stress, and task duration in radiologists were higher than that of gastroenterologists and the back score in gastroenterologists was higher than radiologists (p&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Limitations. In this study, the psychological factors affecting musculoskeletal disorders have not been investigated.&#x0D; Conclusion. WRMSDs had a relatively high prevalence among radiologists (shoulder and hand pain) and gastroenterologists (upper and lower back). Due to the impact of ergonomic risk factors on these disorders in the workplace, ergonomic interventions should be implemented to reduce these risk factors in occupational settings.