Ergonomics Risk Management for Sewing Machine Assembly Work

Abstract

In sewing machine manufacturing or assembling processes with ergonomic risks, workers are vulnerable to cumulative trauma that leads to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Therefore, this study aimed to 1) assess ergonomic risk for sewing machine assembly processes by using Rapid upper limp assessment (RULA) and NIOSH lifting equation, and 2) develop the manual for ergonomic risk management. The independent study preparation involved the collection of data or information on sewing machine assembly processes, including operating procedures, work stations, work attributes and the motion of work, the review of theories and literature on ergonomic risk assessment. Then, collected data on personal details and muscular fatigue problem among production operator by using body discomfort questionnaire with 97 persons in assembly department. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics only 16 persons were selected as studied samples. Ergonomics risk assessment of working posture was conducted by using RULA and NIOSH lifting equation and invested ergonomics risk management. Therefore the assessment result by using RULA showed that 1) the assessment of work posture by using RULA had the level of risk that was unacceptable 10 of 27 (37%) works and the assessment result by using NIOSH lifting equation showed that recommended weight limit (RWL) from the pallet was 9.05 kilograms and on the floor was 8.92 kilograms that are lower than real weight was 22 kilograms, and 2) The suggestion of ergonomics risk management and monitoring of implementation were assessment the pasture working by using RULA and NIOSH lifting index including survey muscular fatigue problem by using body discomfort questionnaire.