Evaluating biomechanical risks in manual material handling: an ergonomic intervention approach

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Ergonomics
• Waste Management Engineering

Background:

• Manual waste handling poses significant risks of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) to workers, particularly affecting the lower back, knee, and neck joints.
• Traditional waste scraping and picking tasks are associated with high physical demands and potential for injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate enhanced cleaning equipment designed to mitigate MSD risks in manual waste handling.
• To improve worker well-being and safety through iterative ergonomic design interventions.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 92 waste workers focused on identifying risks in scraping and picking tasks.
• Iterative design processes were used to create three versions of enhanced cleaning equipment.
• Comparative ergonomic assessments were conducted to measure improvements in postural scores, spinal forces, and working heart rate (HR).

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in postural scores (67%) and spinal forces (up to 58%) were observed.
• Average working heart rate (HR) decreased by 4%, and pain frequency and severity were notably reduced.
• Worker productivity doubled, with high acceptability ratings for the new equipment.

Conclusions:

• Ergonomic interventions and improved equipment design can substantially reduce the physical risks associated with manual waste handling.
• The developed enhanced cleaning equipment demonstrates potential for boosting worker well-being and enhancing safety in waste management.
• This study highlights the effectiveness of applying ergonomic principles to traditional cleaning practices to prevent occupational injuries.