Ergonomic assessment for the task of repairing computers in a manufacturing company: A case study.

BACKGROUND: Manufacturing industry workers who repair computers may be exposed to ergonomic risk factors. OBJECTIVES: This project analyzes the tasks involved in the computer repair process to (1) find the risk level for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and (2) propose ergonomic interventions to add...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Work Vol. 52; no. 2; pp. 393 - 406
Autores principales: Maldonado-Macías, Aidé, Realyvásquez, Arturo, Hernández, Juan Luis, García-Alcaraz, Jorge
Formato: case study pictorial research tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Sage Publications Inc. 2015
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:BACKGROUND: Manufacturing industry workers who repair computers may be exposed to ergonomic risk factors. OBJECTIVES: This project analyzes the tasks involved in the computer repair process to (1) find the risk level for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and (2) propose ergonomic interventions to address any ergonomic issues. METHODS: Work procedures and main body postures were video recorded and analyzed using task analysis, the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) postural method, and biomechanical analysis. RESULTS: High risk for MSDs was found on every subtask using REBA. Although biomechanical analysis found an acceptable mass center displacement during tasks, a hazardous level of compression on the lower back during computer's transportation was detected. CONCLUSIONS: This assessment found ergonomic risks mainly in the trunk, arm/forearm, and legs; the neck and hand/wrist were also compromised. Opportunities for ergonomic analyses and interventions in the design and execution of computer repair tasks are discussed.