P.1.32 Comparisons of the results from ergonomic tools between rapid entire body assessment and quick exposure check in a steel factory

Abstract

Conducting ergonomic risk assessment is important as it helps employers identify the significant risks in their workplace and will resulting in adequate preventive measures. Simpler observational techniques is one of the types of ergonomic evaluation tools which is commonly used. It is practical, user-friendly and gathering information from both employees and practitioners. This paper presents comparisons between two observational ergonomics tools for determining ergonomics risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) and Quick Exposure Check (QEC) were used to assess 296 employees participating in the study from all 12 sections which involved different work tasks in a steel factory. The results are compared using three risk categories (low, moderate, high). Standardised Nordic questionnaires was also used for evaluating the musculoskeletal disorders and effects on working. Data were gathered using questionnaires and evaluations taken at workstation. The findings show the results analyzed using weighted kappa statistic and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among workers.