Ergonomic value stream mapping: A novel approach to reduce subjective mental workload

Abstract

Recently, companies have become more interested about well-being and satisfaction of human resources. There is an increased awareness that conditions on the marketplace such as high variety products, demand fluctuations and the high service levels required by customers make it necessary to develop methods and models to measure and predict human performance. As Lean Manufacturing is a popular method used at companies in order to foster productivity and innovation in the industrial environment, we proposed the application of the Ergonomic Value Stream Mapping, a novel tool that aims to improve ergonomic conditions while productive performance indicators are also in focus. This work aims to provide academics and practitioners with a novel tool capable to satisfy current needs in manufacturing environments, regarding cognitive ergonomics assurance at workplaces. The implementation of ErgoVSM on its cognitive modality is an effort for acknowledging the significance of assessing health risks within each workstation at companies.