Publication: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (wmsds) and associated risk factors affecting oil palm employees
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Date
2024-07-01
Authors
Vaetha Thimmi A/P Chandira Chagaran
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Abstract
The aim of this investigation focuses on the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among oil palm workers and the factors associated with these disorders. The project's background and problem statement are thoroughly studied and investigated. Data on the demographics, work-related activities, ergonomics, medical histories, and instruments and equipment utilized by oil palm workers are acquired via a comprehensive questionnaire form. The upper body region, specifically the lower back, upper arm, upper back and shoulders experiences pain and discomfort with surpassing 70%. The hip region in the upper body is the only body region with statistics surpassing 70%. Hot environment is at 100% when questioned regarding the environment exposed. The presence of musculoskeletal symptoms is assessed, along with feedback on the usability and user experience of the design intervention. A videography session is conducted and analyzed through a software known as KINOVEA and used to evaluate in OWAS scoring. Through the OWAS analysis, the collection and loading task with harvesting task is more rated at risk. Extreme forces are applied on the shoulder region based on the KINOVEA analysis. A smart watch device is used to monitor heartbeat rates of the oil palm workers. The Bangladeshi workers experience a stable heartbeat rate compared to the Indonesia workers. This is due to the role of environment exposed. The video and smart watch device helps validate and further investigates the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) among oil palm workers. The collected data is also analysed using statistical techniques to determine WMSDs prevalence rates, identify associated risk factors, and establish correlations between various variables. Overall, this thesis serves as a valuable resource for professionals seeking to gain insights into work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) and its broader impact on Oil Palm Industry.