Initial Ergonomic Assessment for Handling Concrete Blocks from Curing Pond to Testing Machine

Abstract

Handling concrete blocks from the curing pond to the testing machine was the subject of the initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment (ERA) conducted at the concrete laboratory of the School of Civil Engineering at UIT Shah Alam. In order to complete the assessment, a five-lab technician is doing the research work for the lecturer and students. Assessing workstation ergonomics, identifying problematic postures using Ergonomic Risk Factors (ERF), and improving worker comfort, safety, and health were the main goals. As per the 2017 Ergonomics Risk Assessment at the Workplace recommendations, the survey revealed that employees experienced severe pain and discomfort, particularly in the lower back, knee, upper arm, and shoulder. Four out of five technicians complained of shoulder pain, one reported pain in the upper arm, two reported knee pain, and pain in the upper and lower back was also reported. The results emphasized the dangers of awkward, repetitive postures and inappropriate load management. In order to address these concerns and provide a more comprehensive assessment and improvement of working conditions, it is recommended that additional evaluations be conducted using the Rapid Whole-Body Assessment (REBA) and the Manual Handling Assessment Chart (MAC). Additionally, the investigation suggests that administrative and engineering controls should be implemented to mitigate the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and enhance the overall ergonomic experience of employees.

Keywords: Ergonomic Risk Assessment (ERA), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD), Awkward Posture, Cornell Musculoskeletal Discomfort Questionnaire, Concrete Laboratory