Ergonomic work analysis of industrial quality control workstations

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) affect millions of workers in Europe and cost employers billions of Euros. Quality control workstations usually demand the adoption of awkward and uncomfortable postures for long periods, which may stress and fatigue supporting muscles and tendons, leading to the development of MSDs. An Ergonomic Work Analysis covered the working conditions of an industrial quality section and the main risks factors were highlighted. The main objectives were: to assess the actual working conditions; to establish relationships between these and the complaints workers presented; to characterize each task in terms of the associated MSDs development risk; to present preventive measures. Rapid Entire Body Assessment and Ovako Working Posture Analyzing System analyzed seventeen postures. Both methods scored three and five postures, respectively, with a high risk of developing MSDs whereas ten postures were qualified as of medium risk. Technical and organizational solutions were proposed and implemented.