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A STUDY ON PUSH-PULL ANALYSIS ASSOCIATED WITH AWKWARD POSTURE AMONG WORKERS IN AEROSPACE INDUSTRY

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In aerospace industries, many working tasks required their workers to perform works in push-pull activity. It is associated with an awkward posture. The awkward posture is a practical working posture when joints are not in neutral position. Furthermore, the workers need to push or pull the mould in a long distance into a workplace. If the workers perform the activity continuously throughout the working hours, they may be experienced back pain problem. The objective of this study is to measure the maximum acceptable initial force and sustained force for push-pull activity while workers perform their tasks. Besides that, this study also wants to identify which activity can endure longer between push or pull activity. Moreover, this study measures the comfort level of working posture. The acceptable initial force and sustained force were measured using Push-Pull Analysis, expressed in Newton, N. The comfort level is measured using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) Analysis, expressed in scoring level. Both of these assessments are analysis tools Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application (CATIA) software. Six production workers from manufacturing department were participated as subjects. The results show the maximum acceptable initial force for push task is 433.942N and pull task is 396.691N. While, the sustained force for push task is 333.465N and pull task is 318.317N. Referring to the results, pushing activity can endure longer than pulling activity while workers perform their tasks. While the comfort level for this working posture is seven. Based on this study, the authors concluded that push-pull activity can lead to the back pain problem for workers in aerospace industry. It's was influenced by the work activity, work load, work duration of awkward posture and distance between workplace.
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IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and TechnologyeISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
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Volume: 03 Issue: 01 | Jan-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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A STUDY ON PUSH-PULL ANALYSIS ASSOCIATED WITH AWKWARD
POSTURE AMONG WORKERS IN AEROSPACE INDUSTRY
Norhidayah Hashim
1
, Seri Rahayu Kamat
2
, Isa Halim
3
, Mohd Shahrizan Othman
4
1
Master Student,
2, 3
Senior Lecturer,
4
Lecturer, Faculty of Manufacturing Engineering, University Technical Malaysia
Malacca, Hang Tuah Jaya, Durian Tunggal 76100, Malacca, Malaysia
Abstract
In aerospace industries, many working tasks required their workers to perform works in push-pull activity. It is associated with an
awkward posture. The awkward posture is a practical working posture when joints are not in neutral position. Furthermore, the
workers need to push or pull the mould in a long distance into a workplace. If the workers perform the activity continuously
throughout the working hours, they may be experienced back pain problem. The objective of this study is to measure the maximum
acceptable initial force and sustained force for push-pull activity while workers perform their tasks. Besides that, this study also wants
to identify which activity can endure longer between push or pull activity. Moreover, this study measures the comfort level of working
posture. The acceptable initial force and sustained force were measured using Push-Pull Analysis, expressed in Newton, N. The
comfort level is measured using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) Analysis, expressed in scoring level. Both of these assessments
are analysis tools Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application (CATIA) software. Six production workers from
manufacturing department were participated as subjects. The results show the maximum acceptable initial force for push task is
433.942N and pull task is 396.691N. While, the sustained force for push task is 333.465N and pull task is 318.317N. Referring to the
results, pushing activity can endure longer than pulling activity while workers perform their tasks. While the comfort level for this
working posture is seven. Based on this study, the authors concluded that push-pull activity can lead to the back pain problem for
workers in aerospace industry. It’s was influenced by the work activity, work load, work duration of awkward posture and distance
between workplace.
Keywords:Push-pull activity, awkward posture, Acceptable initial force, Acceptable sustained force, Comfort level
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1. INTRODUCTION
Manual material handling (MMH) such as lifting heavy
products, reaching materials, bending forward their back when
doing tasks, and pushing or pulling excessive loads because
those tasks require a stable position and large degree of
freedom.Pushing and pulling activities are one of the activities
for MMH that can increase the risks of back pain problem [1].
The pushing and pulling activities is a frequent activity for a
great segment of the workforce, including hospital workers,
manufacturing workers, construction workers, forest workers,
etc [2-8]. Moreover, both of these activities are associated
with the awkward posture. Awkward posture can be theorized
as a discomfort posture because it is harmful position for
human body when a joint is not in its neutral range of postures
and make muscles are either shorter or longer than resting
length. When joints are exposed to postures that involve range
of movement near the extreme positions, the muscles around
the joint are stretched or compressed. If the exposure to
extreme postures is prolonged, the muscles do not
immediately return to their resting length [9]. In
manufacturing workplaces, numerous processes jobs are
recommended to be performed in awkward posture. For
example, they need to bend their neck forward greater than 30
degrees, raise their elbow above their shoulder, bend their
wrist downward with palm facing downward greater than 30
degrees, bend their back forward greater than 45 degrees,
squatting, etc [10].
The Ergonomics Design and Analysis tool of Computer-Aided
Three-Dimensional Interactive Application (CATIA) software
is one of the ergonomics analysis tool that have been applied
to analyze pushing and pulling activities of workers while
performing tasks in awkward posture [5, 11-14]. The tool
quantifies the push-pull activity in two different forces which
is maximum acceptable initial and sustainability force in terms
of Newton, N corresponding to contraction of the awkward
posture while handling the jobs. For instance, if the maximum
acceptable sustainability force is high, it means that the
workers can endure longer while performing the particular
tasks. But, if the tasks are continuously performed over the
limit, they will experience back pain problem. Besides that,
this ergonomics analysis tool also can quantify comfort level
of working posture while workers perform their tasks using
Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) feature. Several
epidemiology studies used this feature because they wanted to
IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and TechnologyeISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
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Volume: 03 Issue: 01 | Jan-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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know whether the working posture in comfort or discomfort
condition [2, 15-20].
The purpose of this study is to measure the maximum
acceptable initial force and maximum acceptable sustainability
force for push or pull activity among six manufacturing
workers in aerospace industry while workers performed their
tasks in awkward posture. Additionally, the maximum
acceptable sustainability force between push and pull activity
was compared to find out which can endure longer while
workers perform their tasks. Furthermore, the level of comfort
also measured to figure out whether the working posture in
comfort or discomfort condition.
2. METHODOLOGY
An aerospace company situated in Malaysia was selected to
perform the data collection. In the production department of
the company, all workers are males andnational citizenship.
They worked in two shifts based on a 12-hour shift schedule.
A main working activity in this company is MMH activities.
One of the MMH activities is pushing and pulling activity. All
manufacturing workers related with pushing and pulling
activity performed their tasks in awkward posture especially in
lay-up process line. Moreover, the tasks require workers to
push or pull with awkward posture because the nature of jobs
is repetitive, frequent movement, and large degree of freedom.
Six production workers were recruited as subjects in this
study. They are selected from lay-up process lines. To fulfill
the basic requirement of this study, selected workers who
performed pushing or pulling activity in awkward posture and
no injuries for the past 12 months were allowed to participate
in the experimental work. Demographic of the selected
workers from lay-up process line are described in Table -1.
Table -1: Demographic of workers participated in the study
Criteria Mean (SD)
Gender Male
Age 25.7 (5.0)
Mass (kg) 64.5 (10.9)
Height (cm) 174.2 (7.3)
Experience (year) 4.7 (2.7)
An Ergonomic Design and Analysis tool of Computer-Aided
Three-Dimensional Interactive Application Version 5 Release
19 (CATIA V5R19) software were used to analyze the
pushing and pulling activity associated with awkward posture
of the workers. Besides that, the comfort level of working
posture also measured using this tool. The capture posture of
workers was captured based on real job monitoring. The
measurement of distance between workplace was measured by
using measuring tape. The distance is about 2.1 meters (m)
from furnace (Autoclave) to workplace (Clean Room). This
distance is the furthest distance for pushing and pulling
activity in this working area. On the other hand, the real time
monitoring also needs to be considered for this working
activity. It is because one of the requirements from the
ergonomics analysis tool is time consumption for pushing and
pulling activity per mould. Other than that, the weight of panel
also required which is 500 kilogram, kg per panel. After all the
data needed are ready, the design can now start to analyze.
Fig-1 shows the worker with awkward posture for pushing and
pulling activity.
Fig -1: Awkward posture for pushing and pulling activity
By using ergonomics analysis tool from CATIA V5R19, the
pushing and pulling activity can be analyzed. The analysis is
used to analyze the maximum acceptable and sustainability
force when workers push or pull each mould. The feature used
from this tool to do the analysis is Push-Pull Analysis feature.
Besides that, the comfort level of the working posture also
analyzed by using this tool. But, the comfort level is analyzed
by using RULA feature. The working posture for this analysis
is same with the posture shown in Fig -1. However, the
analysis needs to be done in three different height of mould
which is 50 centimeter (cm), 47cm, and 45cm. For this
analysis, the workers is separated into three group which is
taller (the height above 180.0cm), medium (the height
between 170.0cm to 179.9cm), and shorter (the height below
170.0cm). Besides that, in this analysis, all the angles involved
in awkward posture are an average from each worker as
shown in Table -2. The angles in analysis are same with the
angles in real case study as in Figure 1.
Table -2: Analysis angle involved in awkward posture (pls
modify like a table)
Body Segment Angle
Shoulder:
both left and right 95o
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Hand arm:
both left and right 53o from
origin, 00
Neck:
12o from origin, 00
Upper back:
5o from origin, 0o
Lower back:
36o from origin, 00
Right thighs:
40o from origin, 00
Right calf:
40o from origin, 00
Right ankle:
5o from origin, 00
Left thighs:
32o from origin, 00
Left calf:
20o from origin, 00
Left ankle:
5o from origin, 00
Based on selected angle in Table -2, the whole body working
posture for push-pull activity has been designed in CATIA
V5R19 software by using ergonomics analysis tool. Fig-2
shows the design of whole body awkward posture for pushing
and pulling activity by using ergonomics analysis tool in
CATIA V5R19 software.
Fig -2: Awkward posture for pushing and pulling activity
After the whole body awkward posture with the mould has
designed, the Push-Pull Analysis now can be analyzed. The
output parameter from the analysis is the value of maximum
acceptable initial and sustained force that is expressed in
Newton (N). While the output parameter from RULA feature
is final score for comfort level of awkward posture. Graphical
analyses associated with descriptive and comparative analysis
were used to interpret the data.
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This study has conducted an analysis of pushing and pulling
activity associated with awkward posture of manufacturing
workers in aerospace company. Besides that, this study also
quantifies the comfort level of working posture among the
workers while they are doing their tasks. In the company, a
IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and TechnologyeISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
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Volume: 03 Issue: 01 | Jan-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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main manufacturing process is coming from lay-up process
line. This lines required workers to perform pushing and
pulling activity in awkward posture for period of time. All
workers worked on a 12-h shift schedule. The shift is changed
every week which is worked both; day and night shift. It was
observed that the workers spent about 80% of the working
hours in awkward posture to do their tasks (only neutral
standing during setup ply and sitting during breaks)
throughout the 12-h working period. This is due to the
activities that required the workers to push or pull the panel
every 45 minutes with awkward posture from furnace
(Autoclave) to workplace (Clean Room). For instance,
workers also need to push or pull the panel in the workplace
(Clean Room) before the panel is fixing to the floor. Thus, the
process would be practicable in awkward posture as it requires
frequent bending forward of the workers back. This study
observed that the back pain problem occurred particularly in
the lower back due to above mentioned working conditions.
Furthermore, there were complaints of intense pain in those
body parts from the workers of lay-up process lines which is
upper back, shoulder, hand arm, wrist, and fingers.
Through Push-Pull Analysis as shown in Fig-3, this study
identified that the maximum acceptable initial force when the
workers do the pushing activity is 433.942N. While the
maximum acceptable initial force for pulling activity is
396.691N. According to the results, the workers must either
use the initial force of 433.942N to push the mould or use
396.691N to pull the mould. The initial force is the primary
effort needed for workers to do their works [1].
Fig -3: Push-Pull Analysis from CATIA V5R19 software
Based on Fig-3, the time consumption used is 2700 seconds is
equally 45 minutes. Besides that, the distance of push or pull
the mould is 2100 millimeters (mm) is equally 2.1m. Other
than that, the population sample is 50% because the subjects
for this experiment are six workers among 12 workers. Hence,
the population sample is half of the overall workers.
Referring to the result of maximum acceptable sustained force
for pushing activity is 333.465N. While the result for pulling
activity is 318.317N. According to the results, the workers
used 333.465N to push the mould or use 318.317N to pull the
mould along the activity is performed. The sustained force is
the gross effort needed when the workers do their works along
working hours [1].
This analysis pointed that working activity, distance of push-
pull activity, and weight of mould can influence the initial
force needed to push or pull the mould. Other than that, it’s
also influence the sustained force which is the gross force
needed during the activity is performed. When the worker
used the sustained force in a long period of time, their energy
will decrease. Due to energy diminish, the muscles will
involve with contraction and this condition can lead to
discomfort and back pain problem [21].
Moreover, according to ergonomics analysis tool using RULA
feature from CATIA V5R19 software, the working posture is
discomfort posture because the level of comfort for this
awkward posture is 7 score. Fig-4 shows right body region
from RULA analysis for push-pull activity using average
shortest worker with 45cm height of mould. Whereas Fig-5
shows left body region from RULA analysis for push-pull
activity using average shortest worker with 45cm height of
mould. Both left and right need to analyze because the
awkward posture is not in symmetrical posture. Thus, the
analysis needs to be done in both body regions because the
comfort level will different. By referring to Fig-6, the score
from comfort level of RULA analysis will easily understand
using RULA standard from NIOSH [20].
Fig -4: RULA analysis of right body region for push-pull
activity using average of shortest worker with 45cm height of
mould
IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and TechnologyeISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
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Volume: 03 Issue: 01 | Jan-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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Fig -5: RULA analysis of left body region for push-pull
activity using average of shortest worker with 45cm height of
mould
Fig -6: Standard score from NIOSH for comfort level of
RULA analysis
Based on Fig-4 and Fig-5, both of body regions which is right
and left are in very high risk working posture. Changing is
immediately needed for that working posture. The changing
only needed for right and left hand arm. Based on the results,
wrist and arm is in discomfort posture because the wrist is in
twist position for both hand arms. Thus, placed more stress in
the wrist for both hand arm [22]. Table -3 shows summary of
RULA analysis for three different groups of workers with
three different height of mould.
Table -3: Summary of RULA analysis for three different
groups of workers with three different height of mould
Group of
Workers Height of
Mould (cm) Average Score (Right
and Left)
Small 50 7
Medium 45 7
Tall 47 6
Small 45 5
Medium 47 5
Tall 50 5
Small 47 6
Medium 50 6
Tall 45 7
* Tall workers (the height above 180.0cm), medium workers
(the height between 170.0cm to 179.9cm), and small workers
(the height below 170.0cm)
After averaging both of the results (right and left body region),
the average score for each group of workers shows the smaller
size of workers not suitable to work using mould with 50cm of
height. While the medium and taller size of workers not
suitable to work using mould with 45cm of height. Fig -7
shows statistical data analysis of average score from RULA
analysis for each group of workers. From the results, small
workers experienced discomfort working posture when they
are working with 50cm height of mould. Other than that,
medium and tall workers experienced discomfort working
posture when they are working with 45cm height of mould.
Fig -7: Statistical data analysis of average score from RULA
analysis for each group of workers
This analysis pointed that the height of workers and height of
mould can influence the level of comfort for working posture.
When the worker is bending forward their back in a long
period of time, static contraction of muscles can occur
particularly in the back. Due to static contraction, performance
of the muscles may decrease and this condition can lead to
discomfort and back pain problem [21].
CONCLUSIONS
This study has performed Push-Pull Analysis and RULA
Analysis for working posture of manufacturing workers at lay-
up process line in aerospace company. All workers performed
their tasks in awkward posture for prolonged time periods.
The measurements of push-pull activity were conducted using
500 kilogram weight of mould and 2.1 meters of distance from
furnace (Autoclave) to workstation (Clean Room). Besides
that, the measurements of RULA activity were conducted
using three different height of mould and three different height
of worker. Regarding to the maximum acceptable initial force
from Push-Pull Analysis, if the workers push the mould the
force needed is 433.942N. If the workers pull the mould the
Small
Medium
Tall
45cm
5
7
7
47cm
6
5
6
50cm
7
6
5
0
2
4
6
8
Average Score
IJRET: International Journal of Research in Engineering and TechnologyeISSN: 2319-1163 | pISSN: 2321-7308
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Volume: 03 Issue: 01 | Jan-2014, Available @ http://www.ijret.org
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force needed is 396.691N. On the other hand, if the workers
push the mould the maximum acceptable sustained force
needed is 333.465N. If the workers pull the mould the force
needed is 318.317N. Both results show that if the workers
used pushing activity they can endure longer to finish their
tasks. Moreover, the highest result of discomfort score from
RULA Analysis is level seven which is very high risk working
posture and the changing should be implemented now.
Therefore, this study concluded that back pain problem of the
lay-up workers in aerospace industry was influenced by the
work load, work activity and duration of awkward posture.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to acknowledge the Ministry of Higher
Education of Malaysia, the UniversitiTeknikal Malaysia
Melaka (UTeM), and the Centre of Research, Innovation &
Management (CRIM) UTeM for funding this research under
Research Grant PJP/2012/FKP (6D) S1125. Special thank also
goes to Composites Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM)
Sdn. Bhd. for the permission and opportunity to facilitate a
fruitful research.
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BIOGRAPHIES
Norhidayah Hashimis currently a fulltime
research student for Master of Science in
Manufacturing Engineering. Her research area is
musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) problem
focusing on back pain problem. She already
published 2 journal articles and conference proceedings in
Malaysia. She has joined CATIA Training on 2013 in UTeM.
She is a member of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia.
Seri Rahayu Kamat. She completed her Doctor
of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering in
2010 from Sheffield Hallam University,
Sheffield, United Kingdom. She specializes in
Biomechanics, Ergonomic, and Work Study. She
has authored 20 journal articles and conference proceedings in
Malaysia and other countries. She has received Award in
Malaysian Technology Expo 2012 in PWTC Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia and Award in UTeM Expo 2012 (UTeMEX 2012) in
UTeM, Malacca. She is a member of the Institution of
Engineers, Malaysia and Board of Engineers, Malaysia.
Isa Halim. He received Doctor of Philosophy in
Mechanical Engineering from
UniversitiTeknologi MARA, Malaysia in 2011.
His research discipline is Industrial Ergonomics.
He has authored more than 50 publications
including journal articles and conference proceedings. He has
been conferred Excellent Research Award from the
UniversitiTeknologi MARA in 2012, Best Paper Award from
International Conference on Design and Concurrent
Engineering (2012), and from Social Security Organization of
Malaysia (2011). He is member of Board of Engineers,
Malaysia, The Institution of Engineers, Malaysia, and
Malaysian Society for Engineering and Technology.
Mohd Shahrizan Othman He has received his
Master of Science in Statistics granted by USM
on 2004. His expertise in Engineering
Mathematics, Numerical Method, Differential
Equation, and Statistics and Probabilities. He is a
member of the Institution of Engineers, Malaysia and Board of
Engineers, Malaysia.
... No investigated body regions surpassed the moderate pain level. The unexaggerated pain can be attributed to factors influencing muscle fatigue or pain, such as the task duration (Merino et al., 2018), the intensity of the task (Iguchi et al., 2008), repetitive actions (Chowdhury et al., 2013;Luca, 1997), rest interval (Nogueira et al., 2012;Sarker and Mirka, 2020), and awkward postures (Kamat et al., 2013). Despite including repetition factors, high physical tasks, and awkward postures, this study was conducted for a short time, hence neglecting the prolonged task duration that may induce even higher pain. ...
Article
Hand force data is critical in evaluating work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Nevertheless, earlier studies on oil palm workers relied on estimated or laboratory measurements, which may not accurately reflect the actual hand forces. This study is the first report on the field measurement of hand forces for palm oil harvesters using a chisel and sickle to harvest low and tall palm trees, respectively. The dynamic hand forces and ground reaction forces were measured using instrumented harvesting tools and force plates, while wearable motion (IMU) and electromyography (EMG) sensors were incorporated for quantifying postural angles and muscle activations, respectively. Additionally, the spinal loadings, continuous Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scores, and subjective pain scores were determined to evaluate the risk of WMSDs. A total of 10 harvesters were recruited to perform the palm pruning tasks using a chisel and sickle. Resultantly, the sickle and chisel recorded a maximum cutting force of 1601.23 ± 424.26 N and 420.80 ± 96.00 N, respectively. All pruning tasks were found to be highly risky to harvesters, with a peak REBA score of 12. Likewise, all investigated muscles were activated for over 40% MVC, thus inducing moderate pain in the muscles. The peak L5-S1 compression forces for all tasks exceeded the safety threshold (>3400 N), but the values were not significantly different. The shear force of the L5-S1 was extreme in pruning with a sickle (1446.10 ± 411.00 N) compared to using a chisel. In conclusion, palm harvesters were at a high risk of developing WMSDs following poor postures, high physical exertion and muscle activity, and excessive spinal loads.
... Sebagai bukti, salah satu jurnal penelitian A(3) melakukan pengukuran mioelektrik untuk mengetahui jumlah tenaga yang dikerahkan oleh otot saat pekerja aerospace harus membungkuk dengan tangan kanan menjangkau benda di dalam tong dengan waktu 15 -35 menit tanpa waktu istirahat. Hasil penelitian menunjukan adanya peningkatan mioelektrik pada otot fasia torakulumbalis bagian kanan (dari 264 mikrovolt menjadi 627 mikrovolt) (Rahayu, S, Norhidayah, H & Shahrizan, 2013). Menurut Humantech (1995), postur janggal akan berisiko menyebabkan gangguan muskuloskeletal jika dilakukan dalam durasi lebih dari 10 detik. ...
Article
Latar Belakang: Tidak semua postur janggal yang ada di industri harus dihilangkan. Karena faktanya, postur janggal tidak dapat dipisahkan dari aktivitas kerja sehari-hari. Setiap ada pergerakan yang membuat sudut tubuh menjauhi posisi normal, dapat dikatakan sebagai postur janggal. Kesalahpahaman terkait konsep dari postur janggal terlebih diikuti dengan fakta bahwa konsep penilaian metode observasi yang sering digunakan untuk menilai postur janggal (REBA, RULA, dan OWAS) kurang sesuai dengan teori yang seharusnya, dapat menurunkan keefektifan pencegahan dan pengendalian gangguan sistem muskuloskeletal. Untuk mengatasi hal itu, maka diperlukan kajian literatur yang menjelaskan variabel apa saja yang dapat mempengaruhi tingkat keparahan postur janggal. Metode: Penelitian ini menggunakan metode studi pustaka naratif dengan tujuan untuk menggambarkan bagaimana hubungan antara durasi, frekuensi, dan sudut kemiringan postur dengan tingkat keparahan postur janggal. Hasil: Didapatkan 15 literatur yang berasal dari pangkalan data online Science Direct, ProQuest, dan Google Cendekia, dengan rincian 9 literatur menggunakan metode semi-eksperimental, 5 literatur menggunakan metode cross sectional, dan 1 literatur menggunakan metode studi pustaka sistematik. Kesimpulan: Berdasarkan hasil literatur tersebut, didapatkan bukti adanya hubungan yang linear antara durasi, frekuensi, dan sudut kemiringan postur dengan tingkat keparahan postur janggal.
... As a result, muscles demand more energy to complete the activity, and they will also work in inefficient and susceptible ways. Twisted, bending, attaining, pulling, or lifting are examples of uncomfortable bodily postures or awkward postures [10]. Awkward postures include working with the hands above the level of the head, elbows, and shoulders, as well as a neck bend of more than 300° [11]. ...
Article
Graphical abstract Abstract Human activity in the technical education sector, particularly practical activities such as workshop work, is stressful and tiring, with existence of risk and hazard. Previous studies have been conducted to assess postural risk factor using score decision during their practical work in workshop. Hence, this study adopts a Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaires (CMDQ) as a solution tool aims for students involve in practical activity. Respondent (n = 5) are consisting of students attend welding practice throughout the semester. The respondent was given a detailed CMDQ questionnaire for student to measure the level of discomfort while doing their practical task. Frequency of occurrence, discomfort, and working capability, will be combined to create total CMDQ scores. Additional of individual interviews were utilized to quantify pain emotions and explore the frequency of discomfort. The finding shows that respondents are having the pain sensation after their practical work. This indicates that the student version of CMDQ is a feasible tool to assess ergonomic postural risk during practical laboratory work. Abstrak Aktiviti manusia dalam sektor pendidikan teknikal, terutamanya aktiviti praktikal seperti kerja amali, memberi tekanan dan memenatkan, juga terdapat risiko dan bahaya. Kajian terdahulu telah dijalankan untuk menilai faktor risiko postur menggunakan keputusan skor semasa kerja amali mereka di bengkel. Oleh itu, kajian ini menggunakan Soal Selidik Ketidakselesaan Muskuloskeletal Cornell (CMDQ) sebagai alat penyelesaian bagi pelajar yang terlibat dalam aktiviti amali. Responden seramai 5 orang adalah terdiri daripada pelajar yang sedang menjalani sesi amali kimpalan sepanjang semester. Responden telah diberikan soal selidik CMDQ secara terperinci untuk pelajar mengukur tahap ketidakselesaan semasa melakukan kerja mereka. Kekerapan berlaku, ketidakselesaan, dan kebolehan bekerja, akan digabung untuk mendapatkan jumlah skor CMDQ. Tambahan temubual individu digunakan untuk mengukur emosi kesakitan dan meneroka kekerapan ketidakselesaan. Dapatan kajian menunjukkan bahawa responden mengalami rasa sakit selepas melakukan kerja email. Ini menunjukkan bahawa CMDQ versi pelajar adalah alat yang
... Figure 7(c) shows the mannequin posture is starting to bend its body to the position as it wants to pick up something from the floor. Figure 7(d) shows the maximum bending that can be achieved by the mannequin that is 45 degrees [12]. It can be seen that the three markers have developed an angle different. ...
... d Biomechanical analysis of the proposed working posture using a crowbar. e Biomechanical analysis of the proposed working posture using a crowbarSanchez-Lite et al. 2013;Hashim et al. 2014;Pavlovic-Veselinovic et al. 2016) that can be used. ...
Chapter
Fish dressing is a seasonal activity in seacoast regions. Work related health hazards of women in fish dressing (N = 68) were examined using ergonomic checklist, including fish dressing workplace description, workers description and ergonomic aspects in fish dressing. Working with traditional method of fish dressing, 91.2% women workers suffered from back pain, 85.3% from leg pain, 89.7% from body pain, 83.8% from knee pain and 77.9% from neck pain. Also, 73.5% had skin related problems, 25% had respiratory irritation, 82.3% had a headache and 55.9% had frequent hand injuries. These occupational health hazards were due to the handling of fish material, long hours of sitting work, fixed and awkward work posture, working with arms away from the body, improper fish dressing workplace design etc.
... Ergonomic problems related to fitting the work task or tool to the users can be solved by including the anthropometry element at the design stage to reduce the ergonomic risk factors to the user. Strenuous movements or awkward postures at workplaces are mostly due to incompatible anthropometric data and workstation design (Deros et al., 2011;Seri et al., 2013). Recently in Malaysia, anthropometric studies have become the most significant discussion among ergonomists, anthropometrists, and researchers (Nurul Shahida et al., 2015;Hassan et al., 2015;Hashim & Dawal, 2012;Karmegam et al., 2011;Deros et al., 2011 andRosnah et al., 2006). ...
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An increasing number of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) cases in Malaysia affect work task efficiency. There are many guidelines on the control and prevention of MSDs issues. In this study, the researcher encourages MSDs prevention at an early stage by designing tools or products that ergonomically fit the user to create a comfortable and productive workplace while preventing discomfort. Therefore, this study aims to establish normative data of handgrip strength and pinch grip strength for Malaysian working-age group in both genders. The data is practical to be applied by all designers in developing tools that healthy and ergonomic. For the method, the Baseline Digital Smedley Dynamometer is used to analyze handgrip strength. Baseline Hydraulic Pinch Gauge follows the lateral pinch type method to analyze the pinch grip strength. The result shows that males are significantly stronger than females. Analysis across the age groups found that mean score of female handgrip are equivalent of lower than the lowest 5th percentile value of male handgrip. this study also found that male are at their strongest across the age group, the 5th percentile value of males is greater than the mean score of female handgrip strength, male at their strongest in their thirties while females are strongest at their age below 20 years old. Normative data of grip strength is established in this study.
Chapter
Excavation is the process of removing/extracting soil from the ground to lay down the foundation and erection of column for construction work. This work is hazardous as well as dynamic in nature which requires high physical effort and is carried out manually by men and women in India. These workers are exposed to different physical and environmental effects and eventually exposed to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD). The assessment of such types of dynamic work is not possible without using the computer. This study was carried out on the workers engaged in excavation work for construction. Two postures were identified for analysis from observation, and photos and videos were recorded during the survey. The most hazardous postures are considered for evaluation and the digital human models are designed and simulated in CATIA V5 software. The RULA and biomechanical analysis of the forces is performed on the digital human model (DHM) as well as on real images. The RULA score of the two assessed postures shows that investigation and changes are required immediately. The biomechanical analysis of forces shows that compression force crosses the NIOSH-recommended limit in posture 1, while joint shear loads in posture 2. RULA and biomechanical analysis show that both working postures are not suitable for excavation work as in both positions body and spine are under high risk. The recommended conceptual body posture can help to minimize the WRMSD problem.KeywordsWork-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD)ErgonomicsExcavationRULABiomechanicalCATIA
Chapter
Napier grass fibre was utilized for the development of biocomposite through nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC). NCC was generated by 64 wt% sulphuric acid in the hydrolysis cycle with 60 min time reaction. Biocomposite in film form has been prepared by mixing Poly (lactic acid) (PLA) and NCC using a method of solvent casting. In manufacturing of biocomposite films, NCC with different composition (0, 3, and 6 wt%) was used. The result of XRD analysis displayed an increase of crystallinity for PLA/NCC film compared to pure PLA film. However, PLA/NCC film with 6 wt% content of NCC (PLA/NCC-6) exhibited the highest percentage of crystallinity (69%). The chemical interaction of the structure between the NCC filler and the polymer matrix was studied using FTIR which confirmed by the presence of hydrogen bonding and the same trend of spectra was observed due to existence of PLA. PLA/NCC-3 demonstrated the lowest water absorption (0.37%) compared to pure PLA and PLA/NCC-6 film.
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Aim of the work: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) represent a significant occupational problem among hospital staff; however, data on musculoskeletal health of hospital staff are sparse. This study sought to determine the prevalence of MSD, their epidemiologic data and the associated risk factors. Methods: A previously self administered questionnaire sought information on demographics, prevalence and pattern of MSD, associated risk factors was employed as the survey instrument. A total of 520 questionnaires were distributed to hospital staff but only 433 questionnaires was valid. Eighty-seven of the returned questionnaires were excluded because of incomplete data. Results: The prevalence of MSD among hospital staff was 65.4%. Musculoskeletal disorders occurred mostly in low back (74.5%), neck (38.1%), and knees (31.1%). Factors associated to MSD were age (P <0.001), female gender (P < 0.001), years of service (P <0.001) as well as prolonged standing or sitting (P = 0.016 and 0.023, respectively). No significant association was found between repetitive movement, uncomfortable postures, heavy load handling, working on night shifts, stress and the presence of MSD. Conclusion: A high proportion of hospital staff reported MSD at some body site with the low back being injured most often. Education programs on prevention and coping strategies for musculoskeletal disorders are recommended for hospital staff in order to reduce the rate of occupational hazards and also promote efficiency in patient care.
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Problems of posture in cycling are closely related to a badly adjusted saddle. Many of these problems can be prevented if the bicycle is correctly adjusted. In the search for an optimum posture of the cyclist, a balance should be found to both prevent injuries and enhance performance. If the influence of bicycle ‘posture height’ on generation of muscular power is largely investigated, little attention is carried out about the effects of ‘posture length’ on the cyclist neuromuscular strategy. The purpose of the present study is to compare joint powers for different configurations of the cyclist ‘posture length’. Fourteen competitive cyclists and triathletes (28.2 ± 7.5 years) perform 3-min trials on a stationary cycloergometer at four different ‘posture lengths’ (preferred, backward, intermediate, forward) each separated by one minute of rest. The cyclists exercise an external power of 3.8 ± 0.1 W.kg-1 and pedaling cadence is controlled at 90 ± 5 rpm for all trials. Three-dimensional external forces and moments were measured at each pedal using six components force sensors. Using pedal forces and lower limb three-dimensional kinematics, joint powers are calculated at the ankle, knee and hip joints using an inverse dynamics procedure and normalized to the subject body mass. The results of pedal and joint powers output show that preferred and forward posture lead to develop larger knee power than backward posture. The latter requires to develop supplementary joint power at the hips that compensate joint power deficiency at the knees.
Article
Low back pain (LBP) remains the most common work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD). While most of the LBP research has focused on occupational risk factors, other underlying causal mechanisms may exist since not all workers performing the same task develop an injury. Previous research has identified three primary risk factor categories for LBP (occupational, personal and psychosocial factors); however, few studies have investigated the impact of cross categorical risk factor interactions on LBP. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of occupational, personal and psychosocial factors, and their interactions, on LBP severity in a population of workers currently suffering from LBP. Sixty LBP patients recruited for the study through local physicians and local announcements, completed questionnaires relating to identified occupational, personal and psychosocial risk factors, and completed an Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Multiple regression models for predicting LBP severity were developed for each risk factor category and for a combined risk factor model (which included factors from all three risk factor categories) that included two-way interactions. Results showed that the final model consisted of both main effects and interaction terms between risk factor categories and had an adjusted R-2 value of 0.85, a significant improvement over models developed for the individual categories. These findings illustrate the need to consider all three broad categories of risk factors simultaneously in predicting injury status and in developing effective potential intervention efforts. Relevance to industry: Personal and psychosocial factors and interactions, in addition to occupational factors, may be needed to be taken into account when designing future prevention strategies for persons in jobs with high risks for low back pain. The factors identified here may also be used to develop a predictive model for pain severity in workers.
Article
This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic risks in female sewing machine operators at a textile company. The study sample comprised all female sewing machine operators in the company. The sample included 283 sewing machine operators. Data were collected through the use of the adapted Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and by direct observations via the rapid upper limb assessment (RULA) to determine ergonomic risks. RULA is a validated tool for assessment of ergonomic risks. The mean age of the women was 30.2 (SD: 8.4) and the mean number of years of employment was 13.4 (SD: 5.5). The highest prevalence rates for the women’s musculoskeletal symptoms were in the trunk (62.5%), neck (50.5%), and shoulder (50.2%). Of the women, 65% had experienced musculoskeletal pain or discomfort over the last 6 months. Pain intensity of these symptoms was assessed with a visual analogue scale. The average pain intensity of the women was found to be 3.5 (SD: 2.8). Results of the RULA scores were found to be quite high. There were no employees who received RULA scores of 1–2, which indicates acceptable postures (all scores >5). The final RULA scores of 6.9 indicate that the participants’ postures at their work stations need to be investigated immediately.
Article
This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders and ergonomic risk levels, and identify ergonomic factors related to low back pain in rubber tappers. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Chumporn Province, Southern Thailand. Subjects with a history of major trauma or certain pre-existing back disorders were excluded. A questionnaire-based interview, pain self-report form, direct observation of the workers, and a video-based analysis of working postures using the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method were used. Over half (52.9%) of the participants had low back pain during the previous 3 months, while the prevalence of pain in the legs, upper arms, neck, wrists, and lower arms were 14.8%, 8.9%, 3.0%, 2.3%, and 2.1%, respectively. The average final RULA grand score of 5.25 corresponded to an action level of 3, which indicated the need for prompt medical investigation and work habit changes. From logistic regression analysis, the tapping levels and tapping postures including high frequencies of twisting, bending, and extension of trunk were significantly associated with low back pain. Other independent risk factors included a high frequency of weight lifting, high perceived fatigue from work, and lower levels of social support, education and income. Rubber tapping is regarded as an occupational risk for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). An abnormal ergonomic factor in rubber tapping increases the risk of low back pain among rubber tappers. Preventive measures should be developed to minimize this problem in the future.
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AimsThe aims of this study are to: (1) compare the results of 5 ergonomic risk assessment methods calculated with quantified physical exposure information, (2) examine the effect of multiple definitions of the posture and exertion variable on the risk assessment methods, (3) describe the variability in risk assessment scores between workers, (4) examine the ability of risk assessment component scores to differentiate between facilities with significantly different levels of exposure, and (5) examine the association between risk output and recorded incidence rates.
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The aim of the present study was the examination of the Job Demand Control model in relation to self-reported work-related back and neck pain in a representative sample (n = 1040) of the Swiss working population. The effects of the main dimensions psychological and physical demands, job control and social support, but also their interaction were investigated for neck and back pain separately. After factor and descriptive analyses, binary logistic regression was performed, controlling for age, sex and education. This study found partial support for the Job Demand Control model. The findings showed some support for the strain hypothesis, but mainly that physically or psychologically demanding jobs were associated with a higher prevalence of neck and back pain. Job demands, especially the physical kind, had the most powerful effect. None of the interaction terms showed a significant effect.
Article
Pushing and pulling tasks using carts and material handling devices have become more prevalent in occupational environments in an attempt to reduce the musculoskeletal risks associated with lifting. However, little change in low back disorder rates have been noted as tasks change from lifting to pushing and pulling indicating that we do not understand the mechanics of pushing and pulling well. Biomechanical assessments of pushing and pulling tasks using person-specific biologically assisted models offer a means to help understand how the spine is loaded under pushing and pulling conditions. However, critical components of these models must be adjusted so that they are sensitive to the different physiologic responses in the torso muscles expected during pushing and pulling compared to lifting tasks.
Article
Work-related low back disorders (WLBD) are common and expensive. This study assessed perceived workload and identified issues and possible improvements to reduce WLBD in 64 welders and 44 computer numeric control workers (CNC workers). Injury records were reviewed and a questionnaire was completed. Discomfort ratings and visual analogue scales were compared using one-way ANOVA with Fisher's least-significant difference post hoc test. The annual incidence of recorded WLBD was lower for welders (3.4%) than for CNC workers (5.4%). On the other hand, the working-life incidences of reported WLBD and the point prevalences of low back pain were higher for the welders (55% and 27%, respectively) than for the CNC workers (36% and 16%). The discomfort scores for the low back region were higher than the scores for the other body parts. The weight manually handled [mean (S.D.)] by the welders [21 (6) kg] was lower than by the CNC workers [35 (11) kg]. Perceived exertion was strong for both groups [5 (1)]. For the welders, the postures, repetitions, and duration contributed more to the total effort than the movements and forces (p<0.035). For CNC workers, repetitions and duration contributed more to the total effort than postures, movements, and force (p<0.044). The workers identified relevant problems and possible improvements for their jobs. Recommended improvements included adjustable tables, stretching, and crane use by welders, and training, standing mats, clear limits, stable magnets, and less asymmetrical lifting by CNC workers.PrécisThis study evaluated reported occupational risk factors for WLBD among welders and CNC workers from two steel companies. A questionnaire was responded by 108 steel workers. The information presented can be used to design participatory ergonomic interventions aimed at reducing WLBD.
Article
This study examines the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among nursing personnel in Korea. A self-reporting survey adapted from the Nordic questionnaires was used as the diagnostic tool. The survey was performed four times, once every three months for a year. The MSDs were defined using three criteria, based on the frequency, duration and pain intensity of the symptoms. The results showed that the 12-month prevalences of MSDs in at least one body site by criteria 1, 2 and 3 were 56.8%, 53.7% and 45.7%, respectively, and that the shoulder was the most susceptible to MSDs, followed by the knee, lower back, hand/wrist, neck, ankle/feet, finger, etc. The ward or unit in which the participants worked was the only statistically significant risk factor identified through the χ2 test. The prevalence of MSDs was the highest in the intensive care unit, and second in the surgical ward, while it was the lowest in the emergency room. The MSD prevalences in Korea were much lower than those in other countries such as Japan, the USA, Sweden, etc. This implies that when considering poor working conditions and low awareness of MSDs compared to more advanced countries, the incidence rate of MSDs may rapidly increase in Korea in the future.Relevance to industryNursing profession is one of the most physically demanding jobs in industries, which results in high prevalence of MSDs. For establishing preventative measures of MSDs, the status of MSDs should be investigated.