Development and Implementation of a Management Model of Ergonomic Conditions Supported by Autonomous Teams

The current context of manufacturing industries is marked by challenging and complex processes. Despite Industry 4.0 advances in promoting a more comfort-able way of working, work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) continue to be a very present problem among workers. The main objective of this study was to reduce the WRMSD risk of coworkers through raising awareness and training autonomous teams in ergonomic knowledge and assessment methods, resorting to the implementation of a model for evaluating and managing the ergonomic conditions of the workplace. A critical analysis of the current process of ergonomic evaluation of work activities was carried out and several problems were identified. Key Indicator Method (KIM) was applied to assess 166 activities, so obtaining a primary overview of the company's ergonomic state. The proposals for improvement actions were focused on defining and optimizing the process of improving the ergonomic conditions of risk activities and standardizing the ways of working of ErgoTeams. With these actions, it is expected a more efficient functioning of teams throughout the company with more active participation in the identification and resolution of ergonomic needs; and improvements in working conditions with reduced risk of WRMSD.