Musculoskeletal symptoms and ergonomic risk assessment among production operators at manufacturing industries: A review

Abstract

Musculoskeletal symptoms are prevalent and represent the most common health problem among manufacturing operators in industrial-developing countries, with considerable costs and impact on quality of life. Because of incorrect workstations and lack of employee education in basic biomechanical principles, many of the workers are still in high risk injury. The aim of this study is to understand the impact of ergonomics implementation among production operators as the risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms. Operators are normally exposed to a variety of risk factors such as awkward and static postures, repeat movement, and powerful effort. Manufacturing operators are thus considered at risk from developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSs). This review evaluates selected papers in manufacturing industries that have studied risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms among manufacturing operators. Furthermore, other related industry studies have been reviewed as applicable. To understand the risk factors of musculoskeletal symptoms among manufacturing operators, it is recommended that future studies be required to assess these risk factors among manufacturing operators.