Lalit Suryavanshi, Narendra Singh, Akarsh Kumar Shrivastava
The aim of this research is to determine the ergonomic risks and the musculoskeletal disorders that are associated with the Indian auto-rickshaw drivers during driving and suggest the necessary modifications and improvements that can be implemented for the development of a new auto-rickshaw that is better suited ergonomically for the drivers. The ergonomic risk is measured by analysing the different postures attained by the drivers. The main tools that I have used for this purpose are RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) and REBA (Rapid Entire Body Assessment). A total of 20 auto-rickshaw drivers were interviewed and questions were asked about the problems that they were facing during driving. A questionnaire was prepared to collect data on their demographics, work history, and musculoskeletal pain history. A REBA score of 6-7 considering the different postures of the drivers signifies that there is a medium risk of developing a musculoskeletal disorder, further investigation is needed and the changes may be applied as soon as possible. Assessment of ergonomic risks using the method RULA gave a score of 5-6 considering different postures which suggests that necessary changes must be implemented immediately. The analysis of the work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMDs) using the RULA and REBA shows that the workers are under threats of musculoskeletal disorders and there is a need to implement necessary changes as soon as possible in order to prevent the musculoskeletal disorders.
Working Postures, Musculo-Skeletal Disorders, RULA, REBA Method, Auto Riksha Drivers.