An ergonomic evaluation of workers in the winding section of the pump manufacturing industry

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are prevalent and have an impact across occupations. However, there are very few studies that document the prevalence of WMSDs in the pump industry. In manufacturing industries, the common issue for WMSDs and physiological stress among the workers is caused by poor working posture. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the occupational risks at the winding station in the pump manufacturing industry. In addition, this study examined the influence of work-study on mitigating occupational risks. METHODS: Workers who were involved in circular coil winding and insulation testing were considered for the study. Awkward postures adopted while performing these tasks cause fatigue, injuries and WMSDs. Tasks were evaluated as per the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) standards. A work-study was conducted to better understand the workflow. Virtual ergonomic postural evaluation (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment, RULA) was used to identify the occupational risks. RESULTS: Time taken for making circular windings and insulation testing (7.5 Hp submersible motor) was found to be 4.04 minutes and 0.95 minutes, respectively. A CAD model was used for ergonomic evaluation in the virtual environment. The RULA final score of 2 and 3 is attributed to coil winding and insulation testing. CONCLUSION: For further studies, the whole pump manufacturing process should be taken into account. The ergonomic tools used in this study will considerably reduce the occupation risks at the winding station in the pump manufacturing industry.