Application of the Reba Method to Assess Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Risk in Feed of the Arm Sewing Machine Workstations: A Case Study in Garment Manufacturing

The garment manufacturing industry is known for its physically demanding nature, which poses ergonomic challenges and musculoskeletal health risks to workers. This work presents an ergonomic assessment of the feed of the arm sewing machine workstations within the garment production chain. The study utilizes the REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment) method to evaluate posture-related risks associated with musculoskeletal disorder and identify areas for improvement. Its primary objectives are to determine overall risk levels and pinpoint specific high-risk postures, with the ultimate goal of enhancing worker well-being and productivity in the industry. Video recordings of sewing work cycles at feed of the arm sewing machine workstations were analyzed to assess ergonomic risks. The REBA method was employed to evaluate these risks, taking into consideration joint amplitudes in the upper limbs, neck, and trunk. Scores were assigned to different body parts based on observed postures, and an overall risk score was calculated for each position to indicate the general level of ergonomic risk. The results revealed a high level of risk, with scores ranging from 9 to 12 and an overall score of 11.09, categorizing the workstations as “high risk requiring intervention.” The analysis further highlighted the repetitive and fast upper limb movements associated with sewing tasks, leading to increased strain on the shoulders, elbows, and neck. To mitigate these risks and enhance worker well-being, the study recommends various interventions. These include the application of ergonomic principles in workstation design, the provision of ergonomic tools and equipment, training sessions on proper body mechanics and posture awareness, implementation of job rotation strategies, and the regular conduct of ergonomic assessments. This study underscores the urgent need for intervention to improve working conditions in the feed of the arm sewing machine workstations within the garment manufacturing industry. By implementing the suggested improvements and prioritizing worker well-being, the industry can create a safer and more comfortable work environment ultimately leading to improved worker health, productivity, and efficiency.