Integration of Ergonomic and Work Study to Redesign J-Bolt Production Line: The Case of Ferric Belt Metal Processing and Engineering Factory
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Date
2018-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Work study is a tool of the investigation of a process by means of regular system the work is done
in an industry, in order to achieve the best possible use of human, machine and materials available
in the workstation. Ergonomics is fitting workplace conditions and work demands to capability of
workers. The integration of ergonomics and work study requires new methodological framework
that evolves from single approaches. Which clearly applies the principles of both and
simultaneously guaranteeing better productivity and working condition.
The objective of this study is to develop standard working procedures with reduced non-value
adding activities and ergonomically designed working condition. Both primary and secondary data
was used. To collect primary data direct observation and questionnaire was used. To analyze
qualitative and quantitative analysis was employed and to compare the existing system and the
proposed system arena simulation was conducted. The findings of this thesis indicate that the
layout of the J-bolt production line is exposed to wastage of motion of workers and material that
consume production time and there was no mechanical material handing on the line as well as
there was awkward postures like forward bending and leaning, lateral bending and twisting, sitting
above and below normal height and excessive forward reaching. Workers on the line facing
different degree of pain in their body parts more than 53% of them face higher degree of pain in
the lower back and half back. Also on average 9 injures are recorded per year. From the work
measurement conducted and redesign the workstations the unit production time is reduced by
42.33% and the production volume is increased by 7 pieces per hour.
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Keywords
Ferric Belt Metal, Ergonomic, Redesign J-Bolt, Production Line, Engineering Factory