Stepping into the Cobbler’s Shoes: Addressing Their Ergonomic Conditions
摘要
Cobblers are a large society found in India. They embody tradition by preserving old techniques and skills that have been passed down through generations, linking the past to the present. This society primarily works in the informal sector of the economy, either independently or by continuing their traditional family businesses. It is estimated that the majority of this society works informally. The age group of people working as cobblers is mainly between 40 and 60 years old, and the majority of them are male and usually illiterate. On average, they earn 300–400 rupees per day. They usually belong to the lower middle or poor class of society. Our research aims to focus on the ergonomic aspect of this society and enhance it. The modern-day practices of shoe repairers do not differ much from ancient ones as the tools and processes such as stitching, pasting, cutting, and shaping remain the same. This job requires a lot of attention, as it is very precise and detailed. The results of our research revealed that cobblers suffered from pains and discomfort in different body regions, especially the lower back, neck, and lower leg. Sitting with folded legs and continuous bending of the neck during work were the major reasons for pain and discomfort. These cobblers mostly work in very suffocating and scattered environments such as the roadside, which results in respiratory problems and poor hygiene. Their workspaces are usually established on roadsides, which are flexible at one time but fluctuating at another, threatening their only source of income. They deal with heavy tools without taking precautions, which results in injuries and excessive stress on their muscles. Their workspaces lack proper light exposure, which leads to strain on their eyesight.