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Published on: February 19, 2021
Assessing ergonomic risks: REBA analysis of food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia
Aziah Daud1, Ijlal Syamim Mohd Basri1, Elyas Ahmad1
1Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia (Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences).
Objectives:
Rapid urbanization has intensified the demand for human labor, including in sectors like food delivery, where workers are prone to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study aimed to assess the ergonomic risks among food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method.
Material And Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 191 food delivery riders in September 2021 - March 2022. The REBA method, a paper-and-pen observational tool, was utilized to evaluate the postural risks associated with WMSDs. Data on demographics and working conditions were collected through interviews and observations. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize REBA scores, with mean scores compared between motorcycle types using t-tests.
Results:
The mean final REBA score was 5, indicating a medium risk for developing WMSDs. Scores of 4, 5, and 6 were observed in 36.1%, 31.4%, and 31.9% of riders, respectively. Riders using scooters generally had lower REBA scores than those using sedan motorcycles.
Conclusions:
The study highlighted a medium risk of WMSDs among food delivery riders. Ergonomic interventions, particularly in motorcycle design, are necessary to mitigate these risks and improve occupational safety and health. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2025;38(2):170-8.
