A study was conducted in the Katakhal region of the Cachar district in Assam to examine the ergonomic issues related to the Shital pati weaving process. Shital pati is a hand-woven traditional mat made from the murta plant and has been designated as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Women primarily carry out this labor-intensive weaving process. The study involved a field visit to analyze, observe, and document the musculoskeletal disorders associated with the weaving process using a questionnaire and video recording. A comprehensive ergonomic risk assessment study was performed on the existing weaving process, utilizing the Standardized Nordic Questionnaires and ERIN: Individual Risk Assessment tool. The study revealed that the current weaving techniques resulted in poor postural positions, discomfort, and musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, an ergonomic workbench was developed to improve posture, reduce repetitive strain, and enhance working conditions. A prototype of the ergonomic workbench was created on a smaller scale, and feedback from weavers indicated a positive acceptance of the design. This research underscores the critical need for ergonomic measures to support the health of weavers, sustain their craft, and prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).

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Weaving Wellness: Ergonomic Approaches to Mitigate Musculoskeletal Disorders in Shital Pati Artisans

  • Jitender Kumar Upadhayay,
  • G. Srinivasan

摘要

A study was conducted in the Katakhal region of the Cachar district in Assam to examine the ergonomic issues related to the Shital pati weaving process. Shital pati is a hand-woven traditional mat made from the murta plant and has been designated as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. Women primarily carry out this labor-intensive weaving process. The study involved a field visit to analyze, observe, and document the musculoskeletal disorders associated with the weaving process using a questionnaire and video recording. A comprehensive ergonomic risk assessment study was performed on the existing weaving process, utilizing the Standardized Nordic Questionnaires and ERIN: Individual Risk Assessment tool. The study revealed that the current weaving techniques resulted in poor postural positions, discomfort, and musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, an ergonomic workbench was developed to improve posture, reduce repetitive strain, and enhance working conditions. A prototype of the ergonomic workbench was created on a smaller scale, and feedback from weavers indicated a positive acceptance of the design. This research underscores the critical need for ergonomic measures to support the health of weavers, sustain their craft, and prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).