Work posture load evaluation in medium size metal processing enterprise in Latvia
¹Riga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema street 16, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
²University of Latvia, Aspazijas blvd. 5, LV-1050 Riga, Latvia
³BA School of Business and Finance, K. Valdemara 161, LV-1013 Riga, Latvia
⁴Riga 1st Hospital, Latvia, Bruninieku 5, LV-1001 Riga, Latvia
*Correspondence: henrijs.kalkis@gmail.com
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the exposure of individual workers to ergonomic risk factors associated with upper, lower extremities and trunk WRMSDs and to assess entire body posture for risk of WRMSDs. The company that produces finished metal products (ironing boards) was chosen for the research. Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) was used to assess the entire body posture for risk of WRMSDs. Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method was used for ironing boards employees to evaluate exposure of the neck, trunk, arms and legs in relation to physical load. Our study proved that employees are subjected to WRMSDs due to the load on certain body parts during the work: shoulder and neck area, lower back, legs and arms. Forced work postures are an essential risk factor at work. Assemblers and packers are subdued to high risk level, but inspectors – to medium risk level, which corresponds to evaluation with RULA and REBA methods.
Key words:
ergonomics, physical load, REBA, RULA, work posture