Conducted by BatStateU
, Started on 2013 -
Completed on 2014
Completed
Published
Copyrighted
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The study aimed to analyze the process and workplace layout in the selected structural
and fabrication shops located in Batangas, Philippines thus provide improvements using the results of
Ergonomic Design Measures. These shops generally focused on preparation, cutting, welding, grinding
and assembly using multi-functioning machines and many aspects of human work. Using different
Ergonomic Assessment Checklist, Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment
(RULA) and Ovako Working Posture Assessment System (OWAS), and with direct observations, it was
found out that existing design of the work processes and workplace layout does not match the ergonomic
requirements. The study exposed the presence of Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) risks due to awkward
posture, forceful exertion and fatigue; position of workers is dangerous to themselves due to
inappropriate measurement of facilities which is in need of change. The researcher recommended
ergonomically based actions to address the health, comfort, and well-being of employees such as
changing the workstation surface height, integration of safeguarding; application of Group Technology
to reduce the production lead time and material handling and offered smooth workflow in production
line. Furthermore, the researcher developed a proposed workstation and workplace design as part of the
ergonomic-based actions. The effectiveness of the proposed design alternatives were measured with the
use of Trade-off Analysis technique, such as, Standard Weighted Sum Method, MAXIMIN decision and
Analytic Hierarchy Process.