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An Ergonomic
Approach to Chemical and Process Industries: A Review |
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| Paper Id :
18272 Submission Date :
2023-11-14 Acceptance Date :
2023-11-19 Publication Date :
2023-11-20
This is an open-access research paper/article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. DOI:10.5281/zenodo.10159514 For verification of this paper, please visit on
http://www.socialresearchfoundation.com/remarking.php#8
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| Abstract |
This
comprehensive review synthesizes findings from diverse studies on occupational
safety and health, chemical hazards, ergonomic hazards, and musculoskeletal disorders
across various industries and regions. The global landscape of work-related
challenges is illuminated through rigorous examinations of distinct
occupational contexts, providing valuable insights for researchers,
policymakers, and industry practitioners. In the realm of occupational safety
and health, urgent attention is drawn to the need for robust protective
measures in chemical industries, especially in transitional economies. The
studies reviewed reveal alarming statistics of work-related deaths and
illnesses globally, emphasizing the critical importance of implementing
comprehensive occupational health programs. The synthesis of these studies
concludes with overarching recommendations for future research. |
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| Keywords | Ergonomics, Chemical and Process Industries, Review. | ||||||
| Introduction | As per the
definition provided by the International Ergonomics Association (IEA),
ergonomics (also known as human factors) is the scientific field dedicated to
comprehending the essential interactions between humans and various components
within a system. It involves the application of suitable methods, theories, and
data to enhance both human well-being and the overall performance of the
system.[1] The core objectives of ergonomics encompass the enhancement of
well-being and the optimization of overall system performance, objectives
realized through deliberate ergonomic interventions. Defining intervention as a
purposeful action initiated by a human agent to bring about change, these
interventions operate at both microergonomic and macroergonomic levels,
spanning various contexts such as organizations, industries, workplaces, and
field or laboratory research studies. Within the workplace, occupational
ergonomic interventions are commonly executed through strategies classified as
top-down, middle-out, or bottom-up approaches.[2] In the dynamic landscape of chemical and process industries, the amalgamation of cutting-edge technologies, intricate processes, and human interaction defines the heartbeat of these sectors. As we delve into the realms of chemical and process industries, it becomes paramount to explore the pivotal role that ergonomics plays in optimizing the efficiency, safety, and well-being of the workforce. Chemical and process industries encompass a wide array of activities, ranging from the synthesis of chemicals to refining and processing raw materials. Each step in these complex procedures involves human intervention, be it in the control rooms, laboratories, or on the plant floor. Understanding and optimizing the interaction between humans and their work environment is crucial to mitigating risks, reducing errors, and enhancing overall performance. Ergonomics, often referred to as the science of designing work environments and tasks to suit human capabilities and limitations, is an indispensable facet in these industries. The symbiotic relationship between humans and the intricate machinery and processes within chemical and process plants necessitates a holistic approach to ensure not only operational excellence but also the health and productivity of the workforce. From the ergonomic standpoint, considerations extend beyond the physical comfort of the workforce. It involves the design of user-friendly interfaces for control systems, the implementation of proper lighting to reduce visual fatigue, and the development of workflows that minimize repetitive strain injuries. Moreover, the ergonomic approach is vital in addressing the mental and emotional well-being of employees, ensuring that the work environment fosters concentration, alertness, and resilience in the face of demanding tasks. The pursuit of excellence in chemical and process industries demands a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between human capabilities and the technological marvels that define these sectors. |
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| Objective of study | For developing a better understating of the intricacies of
ergonomic approaches towards chemical and process industries, this systematic
review is conducted in the related & relevant disciplines. This review is
aimed at critically analyzing the current scenario of conducted researches and
to identify the lacunae for future scope of research. |
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| Review of Literature | Critical
Discussion of Review 1. Occupational Safety and Health The escalating
concerns surrounding occupational health and safety in chemical industries,
particularly in transitional economies, underscore an urgent demand for robust
protective measures. Despite rapid technological advancements, the
synchronization of environmental and human health safeguards often lags behind.
The International Labour Organization reports a distressing annual tally of
approximately 200,000 work-related deaths globally, with a substantial number
of workers enduring job-related accidents and illnesses. This pressing scenario
accentuates the critical necessity of implementing comprehensive occupational
health programs within these industries. In a study by Marimuthu et al. (2023)
focusing on the mining industry in India, factors impacting workers' health and
safety were assessed using the Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis
(SWARA) technique. Musculoskeletal disorders, stress, and dust inhalation
emerged as top concerns, prompting recommendations for increased automation,
IoT technologies, and predictive maintenance to address these issues.
Similarly, Mutlu & Altuntas (2023) delved into the textile industry in
Turkey, analyzing factors influencing the severity of occupational accidents.
Their study, based on 139,092 accident records, identified critical accident
predictors, offering insights for the development of effective accident
prevention policies and resource-efficient decision-making strategies. Asanga (2023) explored the awareness levels of paint
factory workers in Nigeria regarding workplace hazards. The study revealed a
significant relationship between workers' hazard awareness and safety
practices, advocating for the establishment of a comprehensive framework to
enforce Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations in paint factories.
Ross et al. (2016) addressed the dearth of information on the impact of
physical and chemical factors on functional ability and injury across various occupations.
Their review emphasized the frequent exposure of workers to substances with
adverse health effects, stressing the need for innovative exposure assessment
techniques for developing comprehensive risk assessment models. Niskane et al. (2014) investigated the impacts of
Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) legislation, collaboration, and management
practices on OSH in the chemical industry. The study highlighted the importance
of integrating safety within the organizational context and emphasized the need
for improved follow-up on the effectiveness of preventive measures. Siddiquia
et al. (2014) assessed occupational health, safety, and environmental problems
in chemical industries in Uttarakhand, emphasizing the need for standard
checklists and safety training to anticipate and evaluate potential concerns. Pinto et al. (2011) emphasized the critical need for
effective Occupational Risk Assessment (ORA) in the construction industry,
particularly during the design stage. The paper highlighted the limitations of
traditional methods and advocated for the use of fuzzy sets approaches to
address multifaceted risks. Swaminathan (2011) underscored the importance of
occupational health and safety in chemical industries, emphasizing the need for
operational occupational exposure limits and the development of methods for
biological monitoring of exposure. Soytas (2006) evaluated the occupational
health and safety situation in various Turkish industries, revealing prevalent
exposure to physical and ergonomic hazards and emphasizing the need for
comprehensive measures to mitigate these risks. Yang and Wang (2004) assessed
the work-ability and occupational stress in chemical industry workers,
identifying risk factors and suggesting measures for protecting and promoting
work ability. 2. Chemical Hazards Several studies
are conducted related to occupational health and safety in various industries,
with a focus on chemical exposure and associated risks. The study by Almsatar
et al., (2014) addresses a specific oil and gas field, providing a focused
examination of hydrogen sulfide gas exposure. Monitoring concentrations at
different locations within the plant site offers a comprehensive understanding
of the issue. However, the study lacks a discussion of potential preventive
measures or interventions to mitigate the identified risks. Additionally, the
calculated risk (1.1 * 10-5) is presented without contextualization or
comparison to accepted risk levels. This comprehensive review by Monatno et
al., (2014) of work-related health inequalities in the European Union considers
a wide range of chemical and biological hazards. Identification of specific
occupational categories and industrial applications associated with increased
exposure rates is a notable strength. However, the text could explore further
the actual impact on affected workers and provide more detailed discussions on
potential interventions or policy recommendations to address identified health
inequalities. A qualitative study by Hambach et al., (2011) provides insights
into chemical industry workers' perceptions, offering a nuanced understanding.
The recognition of the reliance on informal sources for information highlights
a gap that can be addressed in safety communication. Nonetheless, the small
sample size (7 focus groups) may limit the generalizability of findings, and
the study lacks specific recommendations for improving workers' understanding
of formal sources of information. Garrigou et al., (2011) reported that a
trans-disciplinary approach involving ergonomics, epidemiology, and
occupational health contributes to a holistic understanding. The practical
application of findings in shaping policy and control measures demonstrates
real-world impact. However, there are limited details on the specific shortcomings
of coveralls and their impact on workers, and the study focuses on a specific
sector (agriculture), raising questions about the generalizability of findings
to other industries. Hassim and Herme (2010) presented an
innovative technique for recognizing inhalation exposure and chemical hazards
within the chemical industry. The integration of meteorological data enhances
the realism of exposure risk estimations. However, the methodology may be
complex for practical implementation without specialized expertise, and there
is a limited discussion on the validation or real-world application of the
proposed technique in different chemical processes. 3. Ergonomic Hazards The studies
offer valuable insights into various aspects of ergonomics across diverse
industries. Eugenia et al., (2023) studied ergonomic hazards in
clothing laboratories. The study is commendable for its extensive participant
pool and practical recommendations. The emphasis on proper tools, training, and
safety standards underscores a holistic approach to mitigating ergonomic risks
in educational settings. The critical review of ergonomics studies, conducted
by Ramaganesh et al., (2021) particularly in industrial sectors,
provides a comprehensive overview. The focus on safety strategies and comfort
zones highlights the importance of mitigating human factors, and the call for
future research directions adds scholarly depth to the discourse. Zare et al.,
(2018) conducted a study with the application of virtual reality to enhance
physical ergonomics in a control room showcases innovation. By involving
stakeholders and incorporating HFE evaluation, the study presents a practical
approach to improving work environments in the chemical industry. Zare et al.,
(2016) evaluated ergonomic risks in a truck assembly plant reveals the
importance of using multiple assessment methods. The identification of
inconsistencies emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of
ergonomic exposure, ensuring a more effective risk management strategy. Ajith
et al., (2013) conducted a review of hazards in firework industries, including
a field visit to a fireworks manufacturing unit in Tamilnadu. Using direct
observation, the study identified hazards involved in the manufacturing
process, emphasizing the high frequency of accidents reported annually during
fireworks production. The research aimed to enhance understanding and awareness
of hazards within this industry. Bhattacharya et al., (2011) conducted a pilot
study to identify ergonomic risk factors related to cumulative trauma disorders
in carpentry tasks. The study, involving 21 union carpenters across 17
construction sites, utilized a specialized checklist for ergonomic walkthrough
surveys. Findings highlighted the most affected body regions during different
carpentry tasks and emphasized the varying stress levels associated with each
task, providing valuable insights for improving workplace ergonomics. 4. Musculoskeletal disorders
Kee's study on
work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) in Korea from 1996 to 2020
provides a comprehensive overview of the incidence and characteristics of
WMSDs. The use of official yearbooks and personal data collection adds
credibility to the findings. The emphasis on low back pain as the leading cause
highlights a specific area for targeted interventions in workplace health and
safety. Das et al., (2023) evaluated risk factors contributing to WMSDs among
cotton garment industry workers sheds light on the specific challenges faced by
this occupational group. The use of postural analysis tools like RULA &
REBA adds a quantitative dimension to the study, revealing insights into the
ergonomic aspects of garment production. The identification of awkward postures
and prolonged standing as major contributors aligns with common issues in
manufacturing settings. Babatunde et al., (2023) investigated into
musculoskeletal disorders among sugar factory workers and underscored the prevalence
of WMSDs in industrial settings. The use of a structured questionnaire adds
rigor to the data collection process. The conclusion about constant exposure to
ergonomic hazards highlights the need for preventive measures in sugar
factories to reduce the occurrence of WMSDs. Odebiyi and Okafor (2022) discussed on the modification of WMSD development
and prognosis through multiple risk factors provides a valuable insight into
the holistic approach required for effective prevention. The emphasis on
adherence to ergonomic principles and the three-tier hierarchy of controls
offers practical guidance for workplaces to mitigate WMSD risks. Hokmabadi et al., (2018)evaluated risk factors for
musculoskeletal disorders among construction workers using the Key Indicator
Method (KIM) and provided a detailed insight into the physical postures of
workers. The acknowledgment of the need for preventive measures aligns with the
broader context of occupational health and safety in the construction industry.
Deros et al., (2016) studied back pain among Malaysian oil palm industry
workers and highlighted the importance of ergonomic design in manual handling
activities. The use of the Nordic questionnaire and Rapid Entire Body
Assessment (REBA) adds a multifaceted approach to assessing musculoskeletal
risks. The findings emphasize the necessity for immediate ergonomic
interventions in high-risk tasks. Jahangiri et al., (2015) conducted an
investigation into the prevalence of WMSDs and subsequent ergonomic
interventions among lead mine workers demonstrates the effectiveness of
targeted measures. The use of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and
Quick Exposure Check (QEC) adds a practical dimension to the assessment. The
study's focus on significant reductions in WMSDs after interventions
underscores the positive impact of ergonomic measures. Chatterjee et
al., (2015) conducted a study on carpenters provides valuable insights into the
relationship between work experience, workload, and musculoskeletal disorders
(MSDs). The use of multiple assessment methods, including OWAS, RULA &
REBA, offers a comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to MSDs
among carpenters. The conclusion about varying prevalence with changing work
experience adds nuance to the discussion on occupational health.Myung and
Junior (2015) undertook an evaluation of ergonomic conditions in a Brazilian
chemical industry, specifically focusing on back pain complaints, contributes
to the understanding of task-specific challenges. The use of medical reports
for data collection adds a practical dimension to the study. The identification
of tasks with higher incidences of back pain provides actionable insights for
targeted ergonomic interventions. |
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| Methodology | Guided by the
research question, a set of search terms corresponding to the identified themes
were amalgamated for exploration across various databases. The search
encompassed platforms such as PubMed, Web of Science, ResearchGate and Scopus.
The scrutiny of each database spanned the period from January 1, 1980, to June
1, 2023. The search terms were classified into four overarching categories:
ergonomics, chemical industry, occupational safety, occupational health,
chemical risks and musculoskeletal disorders. |
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| Conclusion |
In summary,
while each study contributes valuable insights into occupational health and
safety, there are common areas for improvement. These include a more explicit
discussion of preventive measures, wider applicability of findings, and
specific recommendations for addressing identified issues. Additionally, a more
standardized approach to risk communication and contextualization of calculated
risks would enhance the overall impact of these studies. The studies reviewed
highlight the multifaceted challenges and nuances associated with occupational
safety and health, chemical hazards, ergonomic hazards, and musculoskeletal
disorders across various industries and geographical contexts. Occupational
safety and health remain pressing global concerns, with the need for
comprehensive programs and interventions to mitigate the risks faced by
workers. Chemical hazards pose specific challenges, requiring a balance between
technological advancements and proactive measures to protect workers from
exposure. Ergonomic hazards, spanning various industries, demand tailored
approaches to ensure the well-being of workers, and musculoskeletal disorders
necessitate targeted interventions to address the prevalent risks.
Future studies
should adopt interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from fields
such as medicine, engineering, and social sciences. This collaborative effort
can contribute to holistic solutions for occupational health and safety.
Conducting longitudinal studies would provide a deeper understanding of the
long-term impacts of occupational hazards and interventions, enabling the
development of more effective preventive measures. Given the global nature of
occupational safety challenges, future research should encourage collaboration
between nations, industries, and research institutions to share best practices
and collectively address common issues. Incorporating emerging technologies
such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and wearable devices can
enhance the monitoring and management of occupational hazards, contributing to
more proactive and data-driven solutions. Researchers should actively engage in
policy advocacy to influence the development and implementation of occupational
health and safety regulations. Evidence-based recommendations can contribute to
more effective and adaptable policies. Many studies focus on large industries;
future research should give due attention to the unique challenges faced by
SMEs, developing tailored solutions for these often-overlooked sectors. Studies
should explore strategies for empowering workers to actively participate in
ensuring their own safety and health. This includes education, training, and
the promotion of a safety-conscious culture within workplaces. Future research
should delve into the psychosocial aspects of occupational health, considering
factors such as job stress, mental well-being, and worker satisfaction, to
develop comprehensive workplace interventions. |
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| References | 1. Karwowski W. International encyclopedia of ergonomics and
human factors. Florida (FL): CRC Press; 2006.
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