Ergonomic assessment of the pit loom weaving workstation

Abstract

India's handloom sector is one of the country's largest unorganized economic activity that has a long history of exceptional craftsmanship which symbolizes and preserves the lively Indian culture. The highest incidence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among handloom weavers can be related to long hours of static work with uncomfortable posture at traditionally designed looms. The study aimed to assess the Pit loom workstation of handloom weaving activity. Exploratory research design was used to collect the data of the study. The study was conducted in Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. A sample of 120 handloom weavers using pit looms were selected for the study. NIOSH Workstation analysis checklist was used to assess the workstation. Most of the weavers reported that pit loom working station does not provide full movement of upper and lower extremities. The workstation was hindering the movement to perform the activity. The workstation is not free from clutter and place provided for the workstation was not spacious and is not fitting the work to the worker rather worker is adjusting with the workstation. Therefore, pit loom workstation is more prone to various hazards leading to occupational health problems to the handloom weavers. The research findings indicate that the design of workstations in a handloom unit should prioritize worker productivity, safety, efficiency, and workflow.