Hassan Sadeghi Naeini, Koustuv Dalal, Hashem Mosaddad, Karmegam Karuppiah,
Volume 29, Issue 3 (9-2018)
Abstract
Introduction: This review article has tried to explore the economic effectiveness of ergonomics.
Methods: In this review, PubMed, EBSCO, and Web of Science were selected to find the related articles based on two keywords of ‘ergonomics’ and ‘economics’. Eleven full-text articles (1 in PubMed, 8 in EBSCO, and 2 in Web.Sci.) were included in the study.
Results: Articles show that ergonomics interventions have an association with economics and productivity; however 3 out of 11 articles didn’t show a clear interconnection between ergonomics and economic benefits. All of the reviewed articles conducted at workplaces and also were related to occupational ergonomics, but in a single case, the ergonomics product design was reflected a cost-benefit approach.
Discussion: The role of a healthy workforce and ergonomics design regard to both employees’ efficiency and business growth, are often neglected. According to reviewed papers, the role of ergonomics in green economics toward sustainability is inevitable. However, there are some challenges to persuade the industrial sectors’ managers about the economics side of ergonomics in which limited documents and the lack of ergonomics-economics models and procedures are critical.
Conclusion: This review emphasized on at least two approaches. One of them is the necessities of publishing papers, including valid economics model about industrial ergonomics, another one is to develop some economics tools to confirm the benefits of ergonomic product design. If some appropriate economic models or techniques merge into ergonomics intervention projects, whether industrial ergonomics or product design, more feasible and better outcomes will gain in which both of the employees and customers are satisfied.
Mangesh Phate, Pratik Gaikwad,
Volume 29, Issue 4 (12-2018)
Abstract
In the present work, the biodynamic response behavior of seated human body subject to vibration in vertical direction have been extensively examined. The biodynamic response parameter of seated human body have been analyzed in terms of apparent masss (AM).The AM describe “to –the -body”force motion relationship at the interface of huma and seat. The present work proposed the six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) analytic biodynamic model of the seated human posture with the backrest in the vertical vibration direction to study the biodynamic response of various mass, stiffness and the damping coefficient. Field test were carried out using a TATA Nanocar to verify the vibrational comfort. The tests were carried out on different surface and the at different speed using Fast fourier transform (FFT) analyuzer. Acceleration were measured on both seat and head and the related calculation were done using MATLAB. This paper will help to analyze and provide the vibrational comfort to the car driver and the passangers on different road conditions.
Shimelis Mihretu, Mahesh Gopal,
Volume 32, Issue 4 (12-2021)
Abstract
The study investigates the impact of work environment on organizational performance in Ethiopiachr('39')s Arjo Dedessa Sugar Factory (ADSF) and Finchaa Sugar Factory (FSF), as well as the relationship between physical work environment, work-related risk and injuries, psychological work environment, and social work environment. The total number of people employed in two industries is 867 and 2824. To examine the work-related environment condition, a stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 266 and 338 employees. A 60% response rate has been achieved. Statistical software SPSS V 23.0 was used to analyze and determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables using Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses. The findings show that employees in ADSF have a moderate social work environment compared to those in FSF, but both organizationschr('39') physical work environments are the least conducive. Both ADSF and FSFchr('39')s physical work environments had statistically significant effects on their performance. The suggestion was made to improve the social environment in order to improve the employeeschr('39') psychological health.
Hamed Alizadeh, Ali Khavanin, Farahnaz Khajehnasiri, Niloofar Valizadeh, Ali Salehi Sahlabadi,
Volume 34, Issue 4 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background: The lighting of the work environment and its quantitative and qualitative characteristics, such as the intensity of the light and the color temperature, as a physical characteristic, have a great impact on the mental health, behavior and performance of people. The physical factors of the work environment, the personality type and behavioral characteristics of people are effective in their efficiency and productivity. Methods: The current research is an interventional and laboratory research which was done in 2022, 35 male students of Tarbiat Modares University were studied. This study was designed in 3 locations with different lighting systems of LED lamps with color temperature of 3000, 4000 and 5000 degrees Kelvin. Stroop test software was used to check cognitive activities and Neo questionnaire was used to determine personality type. Results: The results showed that the average reaction time when facing the LED lamp with a color temperature of 4000 degrees Kelvin in the group of consonant words was the lowest (average response time 601.22 milliseconds) and at a color temperature of 3000 degrees Kelvin in the group of dissonant words the highest value (average 88. 645 milliseconds). The average number of errors in the group of dissonant words was the highest when faced with a color temperature of 3000 degrees Kelvin (the average number of errors was 10.8), the lowest amount of errors was observed in the group of consonant words at a color temperature of 5000 degrees Kelvin (the average number of errors was 2.71 ). Also, according to the obtained results and checking the interference score of the people, which shows the level of their selective attention, it was found that the average interference score at the color temperature of 3000 degrees Kelvin is the highest (average 6.05) and when faced with the color temperature of 4000 degrees Kelvin The lowest value was (average 4.14). The results of investigating the relationship between cognitive activities and the personality type of the subjects studied at different color temperatures showed that there was a negative and significant correlation between the interference score of the personality type of the subjects at a temperature of 3000 degrees Kelvin (P value = 0.33). Also, by examining this relationship at a color temperature of 5000 degrees Kelvin, it was found that there is a negative and significant correlation between the interference score and the interference time (another parameter affecting selective attention) with the personality type of people (P value = 0.42 and 0.38, respectively). = P value) Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the LED lighting system with high color temperature can be effective on people's cognitive performance by reducing errors and increasing attention and reaction time. In order to improve people's cognitive performance, it is suggested to use lighting system with high color temperature in sensitive places.
Salwa Mahmood, Ahmad Zahin Zainal Rashid, Nurul Ainina Nadhirah Tajurahim, Helmy Mustafa El Bakri, Ismail Abdul Rahman, Noorul Azreen Aziz,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
This study addresses ergonomic risks faced by firefighters during hose rolling activities, a physically demanding task that can lead to musculoskeletal issues. Building on a previous project conducted at the Bukit Gambir Fire and Rescue Station, this research expands the analysis by comparing four different hose rolling postures: roll and coil, dutch roll, flaking, and figure of eight. The Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method was used to evaluate the ergonomic risk levels of each posture. To further enhance firefighter safety, a preventive strategy tool was proposed and developed. The tool’s design was tested using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) in SolidWorks to assess the structural performance of its alloy steel hook and shaft under load. Simulation results showed stress levels below the material’s yield strength, and factor of safety (FOS) analysis confirmed the tool’s structural reliability. This project takes a holistic approach to understanding and mitigating ergonomic risks in firefighting. This study found that the structural of an assistive tool is safe and confirming the robustness and reliability of both the hook and alloy steel shaft designs. By combining ergonomic assessment with engineering simulation, it not only identifies high-risk postures but also provides a practical solution to reduce strain and prevent injury. Ultimately, the project contributes to improving the safety and well-being of firefighters, supporting a safer work environment for those who risk their lives to protect others.
Mahdieh Jafarnejad Shahri, Ali Bonyadi Naeini, Amir Rahmani, Nasser Koleini Mamaghani, Hassan Sadeghi Naeini,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
This study explores how aesthetics and ergonomics intersect in product design through a bibliometric analysis of 317 publications. Scopus was used as the data source, and VOSviewer and RStudio were used to draw a scientific knowledge map. Visual analysis was used to sort out the research lineage. The study found that the number of literature within the search scope is increasing, with countries like China and the United States at the forefront. Results show that China leads in research output but has relatively low international collaboration, while Europe and North America demonstrate stronger cross-country networks. The analysis of the keywords demonstrates that ergonomics-related terms are the dominant term in the literature. Aesthetics emerged as an increasingly important theme, yet it is presented as a less integrated area of inquiry. Thematic mapping indicated four important clusters in the literature: ergonomics and human factors, aesthetics and emotional design, technology/simulation tools, and sustainability and innovation. These findings indicate that ergonomics continues to provide the primary conceptual framework of the discipline, while aesthetics and sustainability represent emerging areas of inquiry. The current study contributes to the fields of design theory and practice with a conceptual framework that integrates ergonomics and aesthetics in design, and by outlining policy implications that could lead to collaboration, interdisciplinarity, and sustainable innovation.
Noeroel Widajati, Adellian Nugraha, Ng Yee Guan,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Introduction: Ergonomic hazards in the workplace can lead to complaints of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). According to the Global Burden of Disease, in 2019, approximately 1.71 billion people worldwide were affected by musculoskeletal problems. However, studies investigating the association between work duration and Body Mass Index (BMI) with MSD complaints in the manufacturing industry, particularly in developing countries that still rely heavily on labor-intensive systems, remain limited. This study aims to examine the relationship between work duration and BMI with MSD complaints among workers in the manufacturing industry.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted involving 109 manufacturing workers in the production department. Data were collected subjectively through interviews using the Nordic Body Map questionnaire and anthropometric measurements to calculate BMI. The relationship between variables was analyzed using the Chi-Square test with a significance level of α = 0.05.
Results: The study found that the majority of workers had normal work duration or less than 8 hours per day (83.5%), were classified as overweight (58.7%), and reported moderate MSD complaints (58.7%). A significant correlation was found between BMI and MSD complaints (p = 0.017), while no significant correlation was found between work duration and MSD complaints (p = 0.717).
Conclusion: It can be concluded that BMI has a significant correlation with MSD complaints among manufacturing workers. Interventions should focus on weight control, including promoting balanced nutritional intake. However, other potential risk factors such as lifestyle habits, demographic characteristics, and workload should also be considered in future studies.
Norhana Aripin, Fatimah Mahmud, Gusman Nawanir, Suhaidah Hussain, Khai Loon Lee,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
This study explores the impact of human factor ergonomics (HFE), considering physical, managerial, psychosocial, and work design factors on manufacturing performance in the SME automotive sector in Malaysia, and investigates the feasibility of hybrid work environments. Using a mixed-method approach, it collected quantitative data through a survey (132 responses) and qualitative data via semi-structured interviews with five informants from SME automotive manufacturers. The analysis supported three hypotheses, indicating that physical, managerial, and work design factors positively affect manufacturing performance, while psychosocial factors do not due to constraints within SMEs. The study also examined how hybrid work environments can enhance the relationship between psychosocial factors and manufacturing performance. Findings suggest that transitioning to hybrid work, especially for non-operational roles, is feasible with the right technology, policies, culture, and training. This research addresses the urgent need for targeted safety efforts in the automotive SME sector and offers practical insights into optimizing productivity while ensuring employee well-being. It contributes valuable insights into the dynamics of hybrid work environments within manufacturing settings, making it a valuable addition to empirical studies in the field.
Dwi Kristanto, Kafa Asyiradinta,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
This study investigates the effects of seating position and the use of lazy glasses on ergonomic comfort, posture, eye fatigue, and gaming experience among mobile gamers. Ten male participants aged 16–24 years, with normal BMI and daily experience playing Mobile Legends for at least two hours, were tested in four experimental conditions involving gaming chairs and beanbags, with and without lazy glasses. Discomfort levels were measured using the Borg scale, eye fatigue via the Visual Fatigue Index, posture via inertial motion capture, and gaming experience using the Game Experience Questionnaire (GEQ). Statistical analysis was conducted using repeated-measures ANOVA in SPSS v25. Results revealed that sitting position significantly influenced discomfort levels (p < 0.05), particularly in the wrist area (p = 0.044), while lazy glasses significantly increased eye fatigue (p < 0.01) and affected neck posture (p = 0.017). Repetition was also a significant factor contributing to both discomfort (p < 0.05) and eye fatigue (p < 0.01). However, no significant effects were found on overall gaming experience (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that gaming chairs provide better ergonomic support than beanbags and that lazy glasses may exacerbate visual strain, particularly during high-interaction mobile gaming sessions.
Dwi Kristanto, Kafa Asyiradinta,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
mouseout="msoCommentHide('_com_1')" onmouseover="msoCommentShow('_anchor_1','_com_1')">This study examines the impact of seating position and lazy glasses use on discomfort, posture, eye fatigue, and gaming experience in mobile gamers. Ten male participants aged 16–24, with normal BMI and accustomed to playing Mobile Legends for at least 2 hours daily, were involved. The study was conducted at the Ergonomics Laboratory Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Gadjah Mada University. All subjects had normal vision verified by a Snellen card test. Devices used included an iPhone 11 Pro Max, a gaming chair, a beanbag, and lazy glasses. Discomfort was assessed using a Borg scale questionnaire, eye fatigue with the Visual Fatigue Index, and gaming experience via the Game Experience Questionnaire. Neck and joint angles were measured using inertial motion capture. Results showed that seating position and repetition significantly affected discomfort (p< 0.05), with wrist posture also influenced by chair type (p< 0.05). Lazy glasses increased eye strain (p< 0.01) and affected neck posture (p< 0.05). Repetition significantly contributed to eye fatigue (p< 0.01). It is recommended to avoid lazy glasses and prefer gaming chairs for better ergonomic comfort and experience.
Muhammad Nabhan Mohamed Nadzri, Azizan Ramli, Juwari Juwari,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Start-up operations in small chemical plants represent a critical yet underexplored phase for human error analysis. This study presents the first systematic application of the Cognitive Reliability and Error Analysis Method (CREAM) to assess human reliability during start-up operations of three utility systems steam boilers, water-cooling pumps, and air compressors in a small Malaysian chemical plant. Unlike existing studies that focus on routine operations or large-scale facilities, this research addresses the unique challenges of manual start-up procedures in resource-constrained environments. Both basic and extended CREAM versions were applied using Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) validated by seven experts with more than 10 years of experience. The analysis revealed that all systems predominantly operated under tactical control mode, with human error probabilities ranging from 0.073 to 0.121. Water-cooling pump operations showed the highest risk (0.320) due to time constraints and collaboration quality issues, while boiler operations demonstrated the lowest risk (0.014) through structured procedures. Critical failure modes were identified in observation and timing-related tasks, particularly in speed verification and parameter adjustment subtasks. This study demonstrates CREAM's applicability to small-scale chemical plant start-ups and provides quantitative reference values for integrating human reliability assessment into Process Safety Management (PSM) systems. The findings support targeted interventions including procedural standardization, enhanced training for high-risk subtasks, and improved shift handover protocols to reduce human error in early-phase operations.
Nurul Ain Sofia Che Awang, Nurul Ainun Hamzah, Nurul Izzah Abdul Samad,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) pose a significant occupational health challenge in dentistry, potentially affecting the health of future dental professionals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MSDs among dental students of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and to explore the relationships between MSD occurrence, demographic factors (academic year, gender, and physical activity levels), and ergonomic awareness. Fifty-five dental students participated in the study, responding to validated electronic questionnaires. The results showed a high prevalence of MSDs, especially over 12 months (41.8%) vs. 7 days (14.5%). Most affected areas were the lower back (74.5%), neck (70.9%), shoulders (60.0%), and upper back (54.5%). Female students showed higher prevalence in some regions (p = 0.032), with Year 5 students reporting the highest prevalence (p = 0.046). Ergonomic awareness was high, with 52.7% rating it as good and 47.3% as excellent. These findings highlight the need to integrate thorough ergonomic education and preventive measures into dental curricula, aiming to promote musculoskeletal health and reduce occupational risks for dental students, thereby supporting long-term occupational well-being in their future careers.
Mohd Hasni Chumiran, Abdullah Al Rashid Ab Hamid, Muhammad Firdaus Md Rawi, Ahmad Anwar Safwan Sidek, Mohd Zarir Yusoff,
Volume 36, Issue 4 (12-2025)
Abstract
Industry 4.0 is transforming manufacturing skill requirements, emphasizing problem-based learning that integrates Human Factors and Ergonomics (HFE). This conceptual study introduces ergonomic cognition as a framework to understand how students perceive, respond to, and apply ergonomic principles in simulation-based learning. Guided by the Ontology of Techniques for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment (OTILIA), the study combines cognitive learning theories with ergonomic reasoning to explore student engagement in Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), focusing on CO₂ laser cutting. A focus group of 21 final-year students from the Bachelor of Technology Management (Furniture Design and Manufacturing) program at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia participated. Data were collected using the think-aloud method and analyzed through prescriptive coding based on studio themes. Descriptive statistics were used to track behavior across the three HFE domains: physical, cognitive, and organizational ergonomics. Findings reveal that integrating CO₂ laser cutting enhances ergonomic cognition - improving precision, customization, material efficiency, time management, and the learning curve during 3D miniature furniture production. The results support a triangular prescription framework linking ergonomic reasoning, interactive tools, and iterative design. Sustainability competencies were also embedded, prompting students to consider environmental impact, material use, and usability. This approach equips future designers to create eco-conscious, ergonomic, and industry-ready products aligned with sustainable smart manufacturing goals.
Rezki Amelia Aminuddin A.p., Hari Purnomo, Hartomo Soewardi,
Volume 37, Issue 1 (3-2026)
Abstract
The rapid digitalization of higher education in Indonesia has transformed teaching practices but also presents serious obstacles to the physical and emotional well-being of lecturers. This study examines the impact of ergonomic policies on lecturer well-being through the integration of macroergonomics and social engineering perspectives and formulates policies for improving lecturer emotional well-being. To collect information, the study used different methods, including a survey of 100 lecturers with established tools like the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and ergonomic condition assessment, as well as personal insights from interviews with 10 chosen lecturers. The digital training program and the unergonomic work environment significantly contributed to increased levels of stress and emotional exhaustion. Specifically, 60% of lecturers reported back pain, 55% experienced eye strain, and 50% reported high levels of negative affect. Interview results corroborated these issues and revealed a widespread lack of institutional support. The strategy designed was an integrated ergonomic intervention, including furniture adjustments, enhanced digital skills development, and comprehensive mental health support, to improve lecturer productivity and emotional well-being.
