Review of physical ergonomics toolkit and assessment techniques for work-related musculoskeletal disorders prevention
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Abstract
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) represent a significant global occupational health and safety concern, primarily stemming from ergonomics risk exposures such as static postures, repetitive motions, and heavy manual material handling. There exists a disconnect between these factors and the capabilities and limitations of workers, which can adversely affect their health, particularly in the context of WMSDs. The identification and evaluation of ergonomics become crucial steps in providing insights for managing ergonomic issues. Currently, various ergonomics assessment tools are available, each with their unique advantages and limitations. The choice of tools should align with specific work characteristics. Therefore, the objective of this study is to present a physical ergonomics assessment toolkit and techniques to identify problems, recognize hazards, and assess risk factors. This will result in guidelines for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) prevention and further enhancing ergonomic working conditions.
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