Study on the Application of the Bowtie Methodology for the Assessment of Ergonomic Risks in the Industrial Field

Abstract

In Romania there are approximately 200,000 employees in the automotive industry, ranking 4th in the EU, after Germany, France and Poland. Many workers in these industries complain of musculoskeletal disorders caused by the high pace of work, awkward positions, handling of masses, etc., often being cumulated. It is therefore essential that these risks related to ergonomics are correctly identified, assessed and treated. The Quick Exposure Check (QEC) is an advanced exposure assessment method that combines observational assessment and self-reporting. This paper presents an applied study of the QEC methodology, a technique based on questions that will be answered by both the observer and the evaluated worker. The research analysed the activity of manually transferring metal parts (components from the automotive industry) from a trolley on a conveyor belt for processing and, vice versa, taking the processed parts from a conveyor belt and placing them on a trolley, because these activities generate many risks to workers' health. Analysing the results of the evaluation of the ergonomic risks generated by incorrect and / or awkward positions during the activities, using the QEC method, it is found that there are some areas of the body that are much affected during these activities.