Ergonomic Assessment in the Apparel Industry Using Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) among Workers in India in Finishing Department

Authors

Abstract

This study aimed to assess ergonomic risks in the garment industry's finishing department using rapid entire body assessment (REBA) among ready-made garment workers in India. This study evaluates ergonomic risks associated with work-related musculoskeletal issues (WMSDs), mainly on the lower back, neck, and limbs, and explores the impact of body mass index (BMI) on posture. A convenience sampling study included 35 employees (male, 23; female, 12; age, >18 years) at a garment unit in Kolkata, India. Data were collected through observation, video, and photo analysis using Kinovea software. The respondents had a mean age of 40.14 years (SD = 8.96) and mean BMI of 24.73 kg/m2 (SD = 2.96). The study revealed a statistically significant relationship between BMI and head and neck flexion angles across operations (p-values: ironing - head: 0.007, neck: 0.01; quality checking - head: 0.004, neck: 0.004; packing - head: 0.001, neck: 0.006; thread trimming - head: 0.001, neck: 0.01; stain removal - head: 0.001, neck: 0.02). The study revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among Indian garment finishing operators due to awkward postures and prolonged standing, evident in the medium to high-risk REBA scores. The Application lies in understanding the relationship between BMI, head/neck flexion angles, and occurrence of musculoskeletal problems which helps to design better workplace environments for garment finishing workers in India.  

Author Biographies

  • Arna Dey, Amity University Kolkata

    Arna Dey is a dedicated student at Amity University Kolkata, specializing in the Department of Fashion Technology. With a profound interest in garment manufacturing, Ms. Dey's research focuses on work-study methods and ergonomics to optimize production processes and enhance worker efficiency and comfort. Through rigorous analysis and innovative approaches, Ms. Dey aims to contribute significantly to the field by improving manufacturing techniques and workplace environments. Passionate about merging technology and fashion, she aspires to drive advancements in the industry, ensuring sustainable and ergonomic practices are at the forefront of garment production.

  • Priyabrata Mondal, Amity University Kolkata

    Mr. Priyabrata Mondal, Program Leader and Assistant Professor at Amity University Kolkata, brings extensive expertise to the realm of fashion technology. With a Master's degree in Fashion Technology from NIFT, New Delhi, and a Bachelor of Technology in Apparel Production and Textiles, Mr. Mondal's academic foundation is robust. His five years of industry experience with renowned organizations like Woodland and Shahi Export, coupled with his academic tenure, enrich his perspective. Currently pursuing a PhD from Anna University, Tamil Nadu, Mr. Mondal's research focuses on implementing AI in the garment industry to enhance efficiency and sustainability. His interests span Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, PMTS implementation, and ergonomics. His dedication to merging technology with fashion underscores his commitment to innovation. His work not only contributes to academic discourse but also addresses practical industry challenges. As an influential figure in academia, Mr. Mondal is shaping the future of fashion technology through research and education.

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Published

2025-02-11

Issue

Vol. 13 No. 1: Spring, 2025

Section

Peer Reviewed Article

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