Analysis of the Application of Ergonomics to Increase Productivity in Manufacturing Companies: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Abstract

Nowadays, manufacturing companies consider ergonomics as a relevant factor in workstations, since it is a means to ensure productivity in the company and comfort and safety of employees. However, there is still resistance to the implementation of postural assessment methods during the various production processes of different manufacturing companies. Consequently, the main objective of this article is to analyze the advances in the application of ergonomics methods to improve productivity in manufacturing companies in America, Europe or Asia during the last 13 years. To fulfill this purpose, a systematic review of the literature was carried out, as well as a bibliometric analysis. The results will be of great value to manufacturing companies, especially those aiming to improve the efficiency of their processes, reduce musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and increase productivity. Therefore, the implementation of ergonomics involves the inclusion from the corporate level to the operational level; in addition, the participation of the workers who work directly in the production processes is important, since they play an important role in guaranteeing and optimizing the smooth and safe work of the processes. This article evidences the increase of productivity in manufacturing companies through the application of ergonomics and a considerable reduction of MSDs along the production processes.