An ergonomic design for Philippine taho vendors' equipment to reduce musculoskeletal disorders

• Main Authors: Andrews, Michelle Maria R., Angeles, Yasmin B., Gallegos, Jesus C., IV
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2008
• Subjects: Human engineering; Factories > Equipment and supplies; Soybean processing plants > Philippines; Engineering design; Industrial safety
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/7396
• Institution: De La Salle University

The re-design of the taho vendor apparatus arose in order to address the ergonomics needs and potential occupational hazards of carrying the yoke apparatus. The aim of this design was not to alleviate but to reduce the dangers of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries (MSD/MSI) experienced by the taho vendor with the present equipment. To analyze the current design, a three part needs analysis from NIOSH was conducted, observing its biomechanical, physiological, and psychophysical aspects. The current design was found not to be ergonomically designed under this three-way analysis. The design concepts and four alternatives were based on ergonomic improvements for both load-carrying and service procedure using Pugh's method of screening and selection. The criteria included in this selection were founded on the three-way analysis mentioned as well as other criteria like manufacturability, cost and bulkiness or yokespan. The design to be developed was eventually selected to be the Bucket Stand Design. Iterations were then done to refine the design accordingly. After, the prototype of the Bucket Stand Design was reevaluated to establish its improvement over the current design. A secondary needs analysis was done, but this time on the use of the prototype. In all biomechanical, physiological, and psychophysical aspects, the prototype was a total improvement over the present equipment. Finally, a cost-benefit analysis tying up health benefits and expenses was used as a deciding point between the current design and the prototype. The prototype was also deemed to have a greater benefit over the present design after the cost-benefit analysis.