Ergonomic risk factors analysis for digitalizing work content and improving mechanic resilience in automobile repair workshops Article

Abstract

Ergonomic risk factors predispose the auto-mechanic to insidious adversities, immolating resilient capability. Relatedly, tasks in automotive workshops in Nigeria necessitate varied involvement of human activities, technical skills and materials which impose different ergonomic problems. This paper evaluated the ergonomic risk factors in automobile repair workshops and prescribed new digital technology tips for remedial solutions. The methodology involved questionnaires, audit of work postures, inspection and pooled analysis of ergonomic risk factors following rapid entire body assessment standards. Results obtained indicate that in Nigeria, automobile maintenance still has high heat and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) burdens; auto-mechanics, likely out of ignorance, adopt work postures that raise their vulnerability to MSDs; and the neck, lower back and upper back were the most affected body parts. Integrating digital technology into maintenance procedures will reduce the risks of MSDs and prioritize continuous resilient performance. These findings will provide helpful information to policymakers and ergonomists to develop automobile maintenance safety ethics and MSDs condition prevention guides.