The effectiveness of strict adherence to ergonomic principles on injury prevention and work performance in metal industry workers

Introduction: The primary strategy to prevent musculoskeletal trauma is the use of ergonomic principles to modify hand tools and to improve workstation design and work practices. To reduce the chance of injury, work tasks should be designed to limit exposure to ergonomic risk factors. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of strict adherence to ergonomic principles on injury prevention and work performance in metal industry workers by assessing musculoskeletal questionnaire and grip strength. Method: Total of 50 subjects were divided equally into 2 groups by random sampling after checking the criteria for selection. Group A experimental (n= 25) and group B control (n=25). The experimental group underwent 1month of strict ergonomic principles whereas the control group underwent normal working protocol. The pre and post measurements were measured by using grip strength and musculoskeletal health questionnaire (msk-hq). Result: The mean MSK-hq post score in Experimental Group was 53.24 with a standard deviation 2.50 and the mean MSK-hq post score in Control Group was 48.08 with a standard deviation 4.63 which was statistically significant (p value <0.00012). The mean Grip(kg)post score in Experimental Group was 45.83 with a standard deviation 0.55 and the mean Grip(kg) post score in Control Group was 45.08 with a standard deviation 1.39 which was statistically significant (p value <0.01546). Hence Experimental group was found to be better than the control group. Conclusion: Based the study's findings and review of supporting evidence, this study concludes that applying ergonomic principles has substantial evidence suggesting that ergonomics can help prevent musculoskeletal injuries and improve grip strength among metal industry workers.