Affiliations: Department of Industrial Design and Technology,
University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana | Psychology Department, University of the
Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Note: [] Address for correspondence: O.J. Sealetsa, Department of
Industrial Design and Technology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.
Tel.: +267 3554273; Fax: +267 3952309; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Universally musculoskeletal disorders are among the leading causes
of low productivity in today's work environment. The situation is reportedly
even worse in developing countries with appalling working conditions in many
industries. In addition, there is often an acute lack of awareness of
ergonomics issues, education and training programmes, and certification within
developing countries. Numerous studies internationally have highlighted
musculoskeletal risk factors associated with the textile industry and
garment-making jobs because of highly repetitive work in awkward work postures. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify and describe
possible ergonomics deficiencies in the workstation of sewing machine operators
in a textile industry in Botswana as well as their perception of workload and
bodily discomfort. Participants: This study focused on one textile
manufacturing factory in Botswana where 157 female sewing machine operators
were recruited as participants. Methods: A modified Corlett and Bishop
body map questionnaire and the NASA TLX were administered and relevant
anthropometric and workplace layout measurements were collected. Results: The results of the study revealed a high prevalence of musculoskeletal
disorders. Conclusions: Back, neck and shoulder discomfort are highly
prevalent among these sewing machine operators. This study proposes
intervention strategies including the re-design of the workstations and seating
and the provision of training in basic ergonomics principles for improving the
work-life of these operators and provides a base for further research on the
prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among sewing machine operators in
developing countries.
Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, mental workload, physical workload, absenteeism, developing countries
