Ergonomically Designed Fishing Equipment to Improve the Occupational Safety and Health Among Fisherfolks at Jala-Jala, Rizal

Abstract

This study examines the postures that put fisherfolk in Jala-Jala, Rizal at risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and provide ergonomic solutions to improve their performance. Job demand analysis and interviews revealed the factors affecting fisherfolk's jobs. Mr. Basig, the agriculture sector representative in Jala-Jala Rizal, claimed that 90% of the 1,800 fisherfolk aged 40 to early 60s had hip and back pain. 60% of fisherfolk also get fish thorn cuts and stings when lifting nets. Analysis of Variance, Tukey Comparison Analysis, Pareto Chart, Root-Cause Analysis, Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), and 5S Lean Methodology were used to conduct the investigation gradually. Thus, fisherfolk routinely pull and carry nets, scoop fish, and pull rope, which statistical study has proven to pose ergonomic dangers. The REBA Analysis classifies these three fishing activities as Action Level 4 high-risk. Therefore, the researchers conceptualized ergonomically designed fishing equipment as well as a working process layout that improves the working condition and lessens the physical discomfort of the fisherfolk. The designed equipment has given the researchers a degree of improvement in the posture of fisherfolk's top three activities by 47.50% in fishing net pulling and carrying, 46.15% in fish scooping, and 21.74% in rope pulling.