Ergonomic Risk Assessment and Improvement of Working Conditions for Ergonomics Risk Reduction of Ikat-Silk Worker at a village in Buriram Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research were: 1) to assess the body part discomfort,
2) to assess the risk of ergonomic posture and, 3) to improve working conditions to reduce the ergonomic risk of ikat-silk worker at a village in Buriram Province. Sample group was 9 people. Body part discomfort form, Rapid upper limp assessment form (RULA) and assessment of satisfaction before and after to improvement form were used as a major tool. Results demonstrated that the most fatigue parts on the left side body were lower back, neck, hips and thighs, respectively. The most lassitude parts on the right side body were lower back, neck, and shoulders, respectively. Working conditions before improvement found that the workers posted as a back sitting on the floor for long times, causing discomfort. The ergonomic risk assessment using the RULA method on both the left and the right sides had the risk level in the range of 5-6 (100%), indicating ergonomic problems required improvement in working conditions. When working conditions were improved by modified-Hong for ikat equipped with up and down adjustable levels, chair, backrest, and cushion, the risks were reduced to the level of 3-4(100%), implying that further study and continuous monitoring were required. It may be necessary to redesign working process. The results suggested that the improvement of working conditions can reduce ergonomic risks and fatigue.