Work Facility Design With An Ergonomic Approach For Female Workers At Cracker Frying Stations

Work Facility Design with an Ergonomic Approach for Female Workers at Cracker Frying Stations

Applying Ergonomics at Cracker Frying Stations: Improving the Health and Productivity of Female Labor

In the world of industrial production, cracker frying stations are a crucial part of the manufacturing process. However, these stations often pose significant health risks to workers, particularly female laborers. The UD Ngatimin cracker business, which utilizes tapioca flour as its primary raw material, has faced numerous challenges at its frying station. One of the primary concerns is the lack of ergonomic design in the work facilities, leading to complaints of pain and discomfort among female workers.

The Problem: Ergonomic Design Deficiencies

The work environment at the frying station requires workers to stand for extended periods, often for 6-7 hours a day, 6 days a week. The low surface of the work plane forces workers to maintain a bent position, which can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other health issues. This suboptimal work environment has a direct impact on the health and productivity of workers.

Research conducted at the UD Ngatimin cracker business revealed that 47.4% of female workers experienced a high level of pain, compared to 28.2% of male workers. These findings indicate that the design of the frying station does not support ergonomics, posing significant health risks to workers. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (Reba) method, used to assess the work environment, showed a high level of risk (8-10), emphasizing the need for immediate improvement. Additionally, the Cardiovascularload (CVL) method revealed a high workload, with an average of 38%, further highlighting the need for ergonomic design adjustments.

Ergonomic Solutions for Cracker Frying Stations

To create a more ergonomic and supportive work environment for female workers, several solutions can be implemented:

Elevate the Surface of the Field of Work

Adjusting the height of the work table to match the anthropometry of female workers can significantly reduce the burden on the back and waist. An ideal solution would be to use an adjustable height desk, which can be set to accommodate the individual needs of each worker.

Use an Ergonomic Chair

Chairs with comfortable backrests and flexible high settings can help reduce fatigue in the muscles and spine. This can be achieved by using ergonomic chairs that provide adequate support and promote good posture.

Applying a Work Rotation System

Implementing a work rotation system can help prevent fatigue and increase productivity. By giving workers adequate rest time and rotating their tasks, employers can reduce the risk of injury and improve overall well-being.

Doing Stretching Exercises

Regular stretching exercises can help maintain muscle flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Employers can encourage workers to perform mild stretching exercises during breaks or at the end of their shifts.

Adequate Lighting

Adequate lighting in the work area can reduce eye tension and increase concentration. Employers can ensure that the lighting is sufficient and comfortable for workers, reducing the risk of eye strain and other visual disorders.

Benefits of Implementation of Ergonomics

The application of ergonomic principles at cracker frying stations can provide numerous benefits, including:

Improving Worker Health

By reducing workload and risk of injury, ergonomics can improve worker health and welfare. This can lead to a reduction in absenteeism and medical expenses, as well as improved overall well-being.

Increasing Productivity

Healthy and comfortable workers are more focused and productive. By creating a supportive work environment, employers can improve worker morale and motivation, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

Reducing Expenses

Ergonomics can reduce work attendance and medical expenses due to work injuries. By investing in ergonomic design and solutions, employers can save costs associated with worker compensation and medical treatment.

Improving the Company's Image

Companies that prioritize worker health and safety are more likely to receive a positive reputation. By demonstrating a commitment to ergonomics and worker well-being, employers can improve their company's image and attract top talent.

Conclusion

The application of ergonomic principles at cracker frying stations is crucial for improving the health and productivity of female laborers. By adjusting the design and implementing ergonomic solutions, employers can create a safer and more convenient work environment for workers. The benefits of ergonomics, including improved worker health, increased productivity, reduced expenses, and improved company image, make it an essential investment for any business.
Frequently Asked Questions: Work Facility Design with an Ergonomic Approach for Female Workers at Cracker Frying Stations

Q&A: Ergonomics in Cracker Frying Stations

Q: What is the main problem with the current work facility design at cracker frying stations?

A: The main problem is the lack of ergonomic design, which leads to complaints of pain and discomfort among female workers. The work environment requires workers to stand for extended periods, often for 6-7 hours a day, 6 days a week, with a bent position due to the low surface of the work plane.

Q: What are the health risks associated with the current work facility design?

A: The health risks include musculoskeletal disorders, eye strain, and other visual disorders. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (Reba) method showed a high level of risk (8-10), and the Cardiovascularload (CVL) method revealed a high workload, with an average of 38%.

Q: What are some ergonomic solutions that can be implemented to improve the work facility design?

A: Some ergonomic solutions include:

• Elevating the surface of the field of work to match the anthropometry of female workers
• Using ergonomic chairs with comfortable backrests and flexible high settings
• Implementing a work rotation system to prevent fatigue and increase productivity
• Encouraging workers to perform mild stretching exercises during breaks or at the end of their shifts
• Ensuring adequate lighting in the work area to reduce eye tension and increase concentration

Q: What are the benefits of implementing ergonomic principles at cracker frying stations?

A: The benefits include:

• Improving worker health and welfare by reducing workload and risk of injury
• Increasing productivity by creating a supportive work environment
• Reducing expenses associated with worker compensation and medical treatment
• Improving the company's image by demonstrating a commitment to worker health and safety

Q: How can employers ensure that the work facility design is ergonomic and supportive of female workers?

A: Employers can ensure that the work facility design is ergonomic by:

• Conducting regular assessments of the work environment to identify areas for improvement
• Implementing ergonomic solutions, such as adjustable height desks and ergonomic chairs
• Providing training and education on ergonomics and workplace safety
• Encouraging worker feedback and participation in the design process
• Regularly reviewing and updating the work facility design to ensure it remains ergonomic and supportive of female workers

Q: What are some common mistakes that employers make when designing work facilities for female workers?

A: Some common mistakes include:

• Failing to conduct regular assessments of the work environment
• Ignoring worker feedback and participation in the design process
• Failing to implement ergonomic solutions, such as adjustable height desks and ergonomic chairs
• Not providing adequate training and education on ergonomics and workplace safety
• Not regularly reviewing and updating the work facility design to ensure it remains ergonomic and supportive of female workers

Q: How can employers measure the success of ergonomic design in their work facilities?

A: Employers can measure the success of ergonomic design by:

• Conducting regular assessments of the work environment to identify areas for improvement
• Monitoring worker feedback and participation in the design process
• Tracking worker health and safety metrics, such as absenteeism and medical expenses
• Conducting regular reviews and updates of the work facility design to ensure it remains ergonomic and supportive of female workers
• Comparing the results of ergonomic design to industry benchmarks and best practices.