osh assist
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Ergonomic Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies for Retail
Workers: Insights from a Case Study in Dungun
Wan Farahiyah Wan Kamarudin1*, Northaqifah Hasna Mohamed Khir1,
Nur Irdina Huda Mohd Zulkifli1, Yasmin Maisarah Azman1,
Qhairani Asywaqi Ruslan1
1 Faculty of Business, Multimedia University, Melaka. Malaysia
*Corresponding Author: [email protected]
Received: 1 July 2024 | Accepted: 15 August 2024 | Published: 1 September 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55057/ijbtm.2024.6.3.6
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Abstract: Manual handling activities contribute to 40% of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs),
leading to long-term discomfort, disability, medical costs, and financial hardships for workers,
while employers face lower productivity and compensation costs. An ergonomic assessment
was conducted among employees at ABC Hardware in Dungun to identify ergonomic risk
factors, determine the likelihood of harm affecting workers' musculoskeletal health, and
recommend control measures to improve workers' health and well-being. Utilizing a
combination of interviews, observations, and questionnaires based on established ergonomics
guidelines, the research highlights the prevalence of MSDs among workers engaged in manual
handling tasks, emphasizing the need for ergonomic interventions and awareness to enhance
workplace safety and employee well-being. Findings from the ergonomic assessment revealed
significant discomfort and risk factors related to awkward postures, repetitive motions, forceful
exertion, and static positions. Specific ergonomic issues identified include discomfort in the
upper back, thighs, and knees among storekeepers, and neck and lower back pain among
warehouse workers. Service desk representatives were found to experience discomfort related
to static postures and repetitive motions. The study recommends advanced ergonomic
assessments such as Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Occupational Repetitive
Assessment (OCRA), and Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), along with improvements in
ergonomic practices and tools. Implementing job rotation, providing ergonomic equipment,
and conducting training on proper lifting techniques are essential to address the identified
risks. This research highlights the critical role of ergonomic practices in preventing MSDs and
improving overall workplace safety.
Keywords: Ergonomic Risk Assessment, Risk Factors, control measures, Retail Workers
___________________________________________________________________________
1. Introduction
Ergonomics, as defined by the International Ergonomics Association (IEA), is the profession
that applies theory, principles, data, and methods to design for optimizing human well-being
and overall system performance. It focuses on understanding interactions between humans and
other elements of a system (Pan et al., 1999). An ergonomic assessment was conducted at ABC
Hardware in Dungun, Terengganu. The hardware store was selected due to its physically
demanding tasks, such as moving and stacking large objects, posing a high risk of injury.
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Hardware stores face unique challenges as their products must be handled manually, varying
in weight and size, increasing the risk of occupational injuries and impacting workers' well-
being and productivity. Despite the busy and noisy environment, these risks are often
overlooked, necessitating identification and strategic improvements for workplace safety
(Widodo et al.,2019). The study is crucial as hardware stores deal with tangible tools essential
for business operations, requiring effective management to ensure system integration,
performance maintenance, and meeting business needs.
Previous studies focused on identifying ergonomic risks in a hardware store, particularly when
lifting heavy objects like power tools, lumber, and cement bags. The objective was to identify
potential ergonomic hazards and suggest improvements in line with DOSH standards. Manual
handling activities are associated with 40% of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), primarily
causing strains and sprains to the upper limbs, shoulders, and lower back, resulting in long-
term discomfort, disability, medical costs, and financial burdens. Employers often face lower
productivity and compensation costs. According to the Social Security Organization (SOCSO),
the number of MSD cases related to manual handling activities increased from 2009 to 2014,
contributing to rising compensation costs for employees (DOSH, 2017).
Several studies highlighting the significant impact of manual handling activities on workers'
musculoskeletal health across diverse industries. Mgbemena et al. (2020) underscored the
prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), emphasizing manual
handling as a leading cause of injuries and absences in industrialized nations. Deros et al.
(2015) found moderate ergonomic awareness among workers performing manual material
handling tasks, suggesting a need for improved ergonomic training and workstation design.
Basahel (2015) linked specific manual tasks in supermarket warehouses to increased incidences
of musculoskeletal pain. Glock et al. (2019) and Loske et al. (2021) highlighted health risks
associated with manual order picking and warehouse logistics, advocating for ergonomic
improvements to mitigate lumbar spine injuries. Markova et al. (2023) discussed ergonomic
technologies to reduce physical strain in industrial settings, emphasizing their role in enhancing
productivity and worker health. Kim et al. (2008) identified ergonomic risk factors in
wholesale/retail sectors, focusing on repetitive tasks and manual material handling as primary
contributors to musculoskeletal disorders.
Recent literature has explored diverse aspects of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), ergonomic
interventions, and manual handling practices across various occupational settings. Smith et al.
(2023) investigated the efficacy of ergonomic interventions in retail environments, focusing on
training programs and workstation modifications to mitigate MSDs among employees. Jones
et al. (2022) examined the impact of technological innovations like exoskeletons and automated
lifting aids on reducing physical strain and MSDs in warehouse operations. Nguyen et al.
(2021) conducted a longitudinal study on manual material handling, highlighting cumulative
trauma disorders and the sustained benefits of ergonomic interventions over time.
Other than that, Patel et al. (2022) analysed the economic implications of MSDs and the cost-
effectiveness of ergonomic programs, providing insights into the financial rationale for
investing in workplace ergonomics. Fernandez and Diaz (2023) explored digital ergonomics
and Industry 4.0 integration, showcasing how digital technologies can optimize workflows and
reduce physical strain in modern workplaces. Additionally, Garcia et al. (2021) investigated
gender-specific differences in biomechanical stressors and MSD risks during manual handling
tasks, proposing gender-sensitive ergonomic solutions for effective workplace interventions.
These studies collectively contribute valuable insights into improving worker health,
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enhancing productivity, and reducing the incidence of MSDs through targeted ergonomic
approaches in diverse occupational settings.
By addressing these ergonomic issues, the study aims to reduce the risk of injuries and enhance
the overall working environment for employees in the retail industry. The primary objectives
of this assessment are to improve workplace safety at the retail location. The first aim is to
identify ergonomic risk factors that may harm employees, focusing on tasks and environments
that could lead to injury or physical strain. The second objective is to determine the likelihood
of harm from these ergonomic risks, assessing the frequency and severity of potential impacts
on employees. Lastly, the assessment aims to suggest suitable control measures to mitigate
these risks, offering practical actions and approaches to reduce the risk of injury and enhance
overall workplace safety and well-being
2. Materials and Method
An ergonomic assessment was conducted at ABC Hardware in Dungun, Terengganu. This
assessment included all nine employees present: three service desk representatives, two
warehouse workers, and four storekeepers. The process for conducting of Ergonomic Risk
Assessment was using Musculoskeletal Assessment and Ergonomic Risk Factor assessment.
This study employs three main approaches: interviews, observation, and a questionnaire survey
to identify ergonomic risks and their impacts on hardware store workers.
2.1 Ergonomic Risk Factors Assessment: Interviews
One-on-one interviews were conducted to gather subjective experiences and insights from
employees handling heavy materials. Respondents were asked about their working hours and
questions related to ergonomics to obtain valid information on their experiences and the
challenges they face.
2.2 Musculoskeletal Assessment: Questionnaire Survey
Musculoskeletal Assessment has been conducted for all type of risk factors to identify and
validate the effected body part. All workers have been given Cornell Musculoskeletal
Questionnaire. A questionnaire survey based on Appendix 3 (Cornell Musculoskeletal
Questionnaire) from Guidelines on Ergonomics Risk Assessment at Work 2017 was
administered.
2.3 Ergonomic Risk Factors Assessment: Observation
This ergonomic risk assessment involves a process from planning, assessing to controlling as
illustrated in Figure 1. For this assessment, proactive approach B has been used to initiate
Ergonomic Risk Assessment which is a walkthrough inspection. Observations were conducted
using checklist from Ergonomics Risk Assessment at Work 2017 (Appendix 6). This method
identified potential factors influencing physical discomfort among hardware store workers.
Observations focused on daily activities, including lifting, carrying heavy items, and repetitive
motions. Additionally, working postures, equipment placement, and material handling were
documented. These observations were recorded and captured using a camera for further
analysis.
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Figure 1: Framework for Ergonomic Risk Assessment (Source: Guidelines of Ergonomic Risk Assessment
at Workplace 2017, Department of Safety & Health, DOSH)
3. Result and Discussion
3.1 Musculoskeletal Assessment
The musculoskeletal assessment revealed that upper back, thigh, and knee discomforts were
the most prevalent among the workers, with six instances each as shown in Figure 2. This can
be attributed to the heavy lifting of items such as paint cans and cement bags. Lower back,
lower leg, and foot discomfort, reported by five workers, likely results from prolonged
repetitive tasks and standing. The least discomfort was observed in the neck, shoulders,
forearms, and wrists, indicating these areas are less affected by static or awkward postures. The
high incidence of discomfort in the upper back, thigh, and knee suggests a need for ergonomic
interventions focusing on lifting techniques and mechanical aids. Lower discomfort in neck
and shoulders suggests less strain from static positions, though overall ergonomic
improvements are still beneficial.
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Figure 2: Discomfort and pain reported workers
3.2 Ergonomic Risk Factors Assessment
The assessment showed significant ergonomic risks related to awkward postures, with frequent
overhead work and bending. Static postures were observed in tasks requiring prolonged
standing. Repetitive motion was prominent in tasks involving lifting and arranging items.
Forceful exertion was evident in lifting heavy weights, and vibration risks were identified with
power tool use. The analysis indicates that addressing awkward and static postures, repetitive
motions, and forceful exertion through ergonomic training and workspace adjustments is
crucial. Providing proper personal protective equipment (PPE) to mitigate vibration risks is
also necessary. Table 1 shows the primary responsibility and ergonomic risk for different tasks
among workers at ABC Hardware.
Table 1: List of responsibility and ergonomic risk factors for different tasks among workers at ABC
Hardware
Task Responsibility Ergonomic Risk Factors
Storekeeper • Manual Handling: Move and organize
bulky items such as paint cans, cement
bags, and other hardware supplies. This
involves lifting, carrying, and placing
heavy items to ensure proper stock
arrangement and accessibility.
• Stock Management: Maintain inventory
levels by arranging products on shelves,
checking stock levels, and replenishing
items as needed.
• Receiving Deliveries: Unload and
organize new shipments, ensuring that
items are stored correctly and safely.
• Repetitive Lifting: Frequent lifting of
heavy objects can lead to
musculoskeletal strain.
• Awkward Postures: Lifting and carrying
items often involves bending and
twisting, which can contribute to
discomfort and injuries.
• Forceful Exertion: Handling large,
heavy items exerts significant physical
force, increasing the risk of strain and
injury
Store helper • Unloading and Stacking: Assist in
unloading bricks and other materials
from delivery vehicles and stack them in
the storage area. This requires lifting
and carrying heavy items.
• Material Handling: Move cement bags
and other supplies using forklifts or
manual methods, ensuring that items are
• Forceful Exertion: Lifting and carrying
heavy materials places significant
physical demands on the body.
• Repetitive Motion: Frequent handling
of bricks and cement involves repetitive
movements that can lead to muscle
fatigue and strain.
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Shoulder
Upper back
Upper arm
Lower back
Forearm
Wrist
Hip
Thigh
Knee
Lower Leg
Foot
Musculoskeletal Assessment
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safely transported to the designated
areas.
• Customer Assistance: Help customers
with their purchases, including loading
large items into their vehicles.
• Temperature Exposure: Working in
varying temperatures, especially during
hot weather, can contribute to heat-
related discomfort.
Service desk
representative • Customer Service: Assist customers
with inquiries, process transactions, and
manage service requests. This involves
prolonged periods of sitting at a desk
and using a computer.
• Stock Management: Organize and
manage inventory from the service desk,
ensuring that products are properly
accounted for and accessible.
• Administrative Tasks: Handle various
administrative duties, including filing
documents, preparing reports, and
maintaining records.
• Static and Sustained Posture: Extended
periods of sitting with poor posture can
lead to discomfort and musculoskeletal
issues.
• Repetitive Motion: Continuous use of a
keyboard and mouse can strain the
upper limbs and wrists.
• Environmental Factors: Inadequate
lighting and noise can affect comfort
and productivity.
The storekeeper is primarily responsible for moving and organizing bulky items such as paint
cans, cement bags, and various hardware supplies. This role involves significant manual
handling, including lifting, carrying, and placing heavy objects to ensure proper stock
arrangement and accessibility. Additionally, the storekeeper manages inventory by arranging
products on shelves, checking stock levels, and replenishing items as necessary. The role also
includes receiving deliveries, where the storekeeper unloads and organizes new shipments,
ensuring items are stored correctly and safely. Ergonomic risks factors associated with this
position include repetitive lifting, awkward postures from bending and twisting, and forceful
exertion from handling large, heavy items, all of which can contribute to musculoskeletal strain
and injury.
The store helper assists with unloading and stacking bricks and other materials from delivery
vehicles, requiring frequent lifting and carrying of heavy items. This role also involves moving
cement bags and other supplies using forklifts or manual methods, ensuring that these items
are safely transported to designated areas. Additionally, the store helper helps customers with
their purchases, including loading large items into their vehicles. Ergonomic risks factors for
the store helper include forceful exertion from handling heavy materials, repetitive motion from
frequently moving and stacking items, and temperature exposure, particularly in hot weather,
which can lead to heat-related discomfort.
The service desk representative handles customer service tasks, such as assisting customers
with inquiries, processing transactions, and managing service requests. This role involves
prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and using a computer, which requires maintaining a static
posture. The representative also manages inventory from the service desk and performs various
administrative duties, including filing documents, preparing reports, and maintaining records.
Ergonomic risk factors for this role include static and sustained posture from extended sitting,
repetitive motion from continuous use of a keyboard and mouse, and environmental factors
such as inadequate lighting and noise, which can affect comfort and productivity.
Table 2 shows the overall evaluation of ergonomic risks across different tasks and the
discomfort found in Musculoskeletal Assessment. The visual data highlights that ergonomic
risks are significant, particularly for tasks involving heavy lifting and prolonged standing. The
most common risks are related to awkward postures and repetitive motions, with vibration and
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environmental factors being less prevalent. Addressing ergonomic risks through
comprehensive interventions and improvements can significantly enhance worker well-being.
Recommendations include ergonomic assessments, task adjustments, and proper PPE usage to
create a safer and more comfortable work environment.
Table 2: Summary of Initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment across different tasks.
No Task
Ergonomic Risk Factors
Pain or
discomfort
found in
Musculoskeleta
l Assessment
Awkward
posture
Static and
Sustained
Posture
Forceful
Exertion
Repetitive
motion Vibration
Environmental
Factor
(Lighting,
Temperature,
Vibration,
Noise)
1 Store-keeper / x / / x x
Upper back,
Lower back,
Forearm, Wrist,
Hip, Thigh,
Knee, Lower
leg, Feet
2 Store helper
x
x
/
/ x /
Neck, Shoulder,
Upper back,
Upper arm,
Lower back,
Forearm, Wrist,
Hip, Thigh,
Knee, Lower
leg, feet
3 Service desk
representative x / x / x x
Neck, Shoulder,
Upper back,
Thigh, knee,
lower leg, feet
3.3 Mitigation Strategies
This initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment (ERA) reveals that employees in the storekeeper
department face significant ergonomic risks, including repetitive tasks, forceful exertion, and
awkward postures. To address these issues, it is crucial to conduct advanced ERAs using tools
such as Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Occupational Repetitive Assessment
(OCRA), and Manual Handling Assessment Chart (MAC). To address the ergonomic risks
faced by storekeepers, several strategies should be implemented. First, providing
comprehensive ergonomic training is crucial. This training should focus on proper lifting
techniques, such as using the legs for lifting, keeping loads close to the body, and avoiding
twisting movements to reduce strain. Additionally, mechanical aids such as forklifts, pallet
jacks, and trolleys should be introduced to minimize manual lifting. Ensuring these tools are
well-maintained and regularly inspected will further enhance safety. Job rotation is another
important strategy, as it helps to reduce repetitive strain by varying tasks among different
employees. Adjusting workstations and storage areas to ensure that items are within easy reach
can prevent excessive bending and stretching. Regular breaks should be encouraged to alleviate
muscle strain and prevent fatigue, with designated areas for rest and recovery provided. Finally,
ergonomic equipment like adjustable height workbenches and anti-fatigue mats should be used
to improve comfort and reduce physical strain.
For employees in the store helper department, the risks identified include forceful exertion,
repetitive motions, and exposure to temperature extremes. Advanced ERAs such as Rapid
Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Assessment of Repetitive Tasks (ART) are
recommended to better assess these risks. For store helpers, addressing ergonomic risks
involves several key strategies. To reduce forceful exertion, mechanical aids such as hydraulic
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lifts and ergonomic hand trucks should be utilized for moving heavy items. Implementing job
rotation can help manage repetitive motions by varying tasks and providing rest periods.
Additionally, managing temperature conditions is essential; adequate ventilation and cooling
systems should be installed in work areas to prevent heat-related discomfort, and hydration
stations should be provided. Training employees on proper body mechanics and posture is also
important, emphasizing the use of both hands and maintaining a neutral spine while lifting.
Regular maintenance of lifting and handling equipment ensures its ergonomic efficiency and
safety.
Service desk representatives primarily face static and sustained postures along with repetitive
motions. Advanced ERAs such as Rapid Office Strain Assessment (ROSA) and Occupational
Repetitive Assessment (OCRA) should be employed to evaluate these risks comprehensively.
Service desk representatives face ergonomic challenges that can be mitigated through several
strategies. An ergonomic workspace design is crucial; workstations should be arranged to
promote good posture, with adjustable chairs and desks ensuring proper alignment and comfort.
The monitor should be positioned at eye level, and the keyboard and mouse should be placed
to minimize wrist strain. Implementing sit-stand desks can allow employees to alternate
between sitting and standing, reducing the strain from static postures.
To address repetitive motion, ergonomic input devices such as keyboards and mice should be
used, and keyboard shortcuts or voice recognition software should be encouraged.
Environmental enhancements, including proper task lighting and noise reduction measures, can
further improve comfort. Regular breaks and stretching exercises should be promoted to
alleviate repetitive strain injuries and eye strain. Lastly, offering ergonomic training that
includes exercises and workstation adjustments can help maintain musculoskeletal health and
promote overall well-being. Table 3 summarizes the identified ergonomic risks, associated pain
areas, and recommendations for each role.
Table 3: Summary of Ergonomic Risks and Recommendations
Task Ergonomic Risk
Factors Pain Areas Recommendations
Storekeeper Awkward Postures,
Forceful Exertion
Upper Back, Lower
Back, Thigh
REBA, OCRA
assessments
Store Helper Awkward Postures,
Forceful Exertion
Neck, Shoulder, Lower
Back
RULA, ART evaluations
Service Desk
Representative
Static Postures,
Vibration
Neck, Shoulder, Lower
Leg
ROSA, OCRA
evaluations
Ultimately, this research underscores the integral role of ergonomic interventions in preventing
MSDs and promoting a safer, healthier work environment. By addressing these ergonomic
challenges proactively, organizations can not only safeguard the health and productivity of
their workforce but also mitigate financial costs associated with workplace injuries. Continued
efforts in ergonomic research and implementation are essential for fostering sustainable
improvements in workplace safety and employee well-being.
4. Conclusion
In conclusion, this study underscores the significant impact of manual handling activities on
the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among employees at ABC Hardware in
Dungun. MSDs not only contribute to long-term discomfort and disability among workers but
also impose substantial financial burdens on both employees and employers. Through a
comprehensive ergonomic assessment, this research has identified prevalent ergonomic risk
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factors such as awkward postures, repetitive motions, forceful exertions, and static positions.
The findings reveal specific areas of discomfort among different job roles, including upper
back, thigh, and knee discomfort among storekeepers, as well as neck and lower back pain
among warehouse workers and service desk representatives. These insights highlight the
critical need for targeted ergonomic interventions tailored to mitigate these risks and improve
workplace safety and employee well-being. Recommendations stemming from this study
advocate for the implementation of advanced ergonomic assessment tools such as REBA,
OCRA, and RULA to further refine risk management strategies. Additionally, the adoption of
ergonomic practices such as job rotation, provision of ergonomic equipment, and training on
proper lifting techniques are crucial steps in reducing MSDs and enhancing overall workplace
ergonomics.
Acknowledgement
The authors would like to acknowledge Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Terengganu
Kampus Bukit Besi management for providing support for this research work. The authors also
would like to acknowledge workers from the ABC Hardware in Dungun who were involved as
respondents in this study.
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