Ergonomic Interventions in WMSDs Prevention – A Case Study Using 3D Twist Insoles to Reduce the Body Pain in a Tape Manufacturing Company

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are becoming serious occupational safety and hygiene problem in Taiwan Industries. Overexertion, high repetition, prolonged exposure, cold and vibration are the five concerns as major WMSDs causes. The intrinsic factor, foot progression angle, should be further considered to reduce risk impact to the workers’ health. The purpose of this study is aimed to demonstrate the reduction of the workers’ body pain by ergonomic principles in a tape manufacturing company. The new developed 3D twist insoles with arch support are selected to help release pain. In this current study, workers with high arch and flat arch are selected as members of the study group, via a 2-step screening test to identify arch type and leg-axis. Nordic musculoskeletal questionnaires (NMQ) were further used to analyze musculoskeletal condition of the workers. Moreover, candidates with Body Mass Index (BMI) value higher than 25, age average over 42, and standing period over 8 hours each day are picked as study group using 3D twist heavy duty insoles. The control group has similar working situation in the same company, wearing the same type of safety boots without the insoles. After 20 weeks, the results suggest the study group of 14 workers have released 40% of pain.

Keywords: work-related musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomic intervention, 3D twist insoles

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe100536