Ergonomics of quay crane workstation

Abstract

Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) among port crane operator has been a problematic issue not only to the workers but also to the port administrative. Low back pain (LBP) has said to be the main reported cases for the MSD problem among those operators. This paper investigated the risk factors of LBP, identified the root causes, and proposed guideline to improve the situation. The occurrences of LBP were first obtained using the modified Nordic questionnaire at 143 port crane operators, which were 51 % of total population. Whole-body vibration (WBV) was then measured at seat pan to identify the exposed of vibration to the operator. Ergonomics assessment using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) was done to justify the ergonomic of working condition. Interview with 4 operators, based on selective criteria, using a set of structured questions was also done to enhance the information received. MSD count for last 12 months showed that LBP was the prevalence factor of all the MSD claims. Univariate analysis indicated that there was significant association between duration of exposure with LBP(p < 0.001). Binomial logistic regression showed that those operators who exposed with current working condition for more than 5 years were 7 times more prevalence to stop work due to LBP. However, there was no significant association found between characteristic and LBP. Daily exposure value A(8) measured were 0.24 m/s2 to 0.42 m/s2 and daily value dose vibration (VDV) exposure measured were 4.33 m/s 1.75 to 7 m/s 1.75. These value were not yet exceeded the limit value set out by EN2002/44/EC of the European Parliament. However, combination effect of long term exposure to WBV and postural stress increases the risk of LBP. In conclusion, operators of quay crane are at risk of having LBP due to the exposure of their working condition.