1. The document discusses Kauna handicraft, a traditional craft from Manipur, India that uses Kauna grass as its raw material. It provides background on the material, cultivation process, products made, and socioeconomic importance for artisans.
2. It then discusses the assessment of musculoskeletal disorders experienced by Kauna artisans and the need for ergonomic interventions to improve workplace conditions and prevent disorders.
3. The goal of the study is to analyze musculoskeletal issues related to the craft and propose solutions to address them.
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Kauna Handicraft & its Occupational Ergonomic Assessment & Intervention
1. K A U N A H A N D I C R A F T & I T S
O C C U P A T I O N A L E R G O N O M I C A S S E S S M E N T
& I N T E R V E N T I O N
Ronaldo Sapam; Dr. Bighna Kalyan Nayak; Jyoti Prakash
Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh
ABSTRACT:
Sustainability is important, and people are searching for tools to better incorporate
sustainability into their companies and products. The environmental influence of the fashion
industry has been under the spotlight, and many companies and brands have also been urged
to make joint and individual efforts to be more sustainable. The northeastern state of
Manipur has got an extensive range of handicraft products. Among them is the Kauna or
Kouna Handicraft. The Kauna Handicraft can be made into items like wall hangings, purses,
bags, jewellery containers, mats, because of its property to form any desired shape and form.
The Kauna material is a plant-based material harvested from the Kauna Water Reed. It
comes as non-toxic material with the the property to insulate heat. It is also water-resistant
which makes a good durable material. The plant is largely cultivated in Manipur’s
Khangabok village. This village is quite renowned for its art of weaving kauna. Many
successful entrepreneurs ran business helping many local artisans earning their livelihood.
The making began with the cultivation which can be harvested 3 times a year. Then it is set in
the sun for drying. Mold are being made for shaping the form. They are generally made in
workshops ran by women thus providing employment over the locality. They have a huge
value at the handicraft market. People opt them for being a sustainable and durable material.
The present study further throw light on characteristics and uniqueness of Kauna craft and
the workplace ergonomic assessment of the Kauna artisans.
2. INTRODUCTION:
Manipur is regarded as the ‘land of gems’. It surrounded by glamorous lakes and ranges of
hill. The land is very rich in culture and traditions. In areas of Art and Handicraft, Manipur
occupies a special place with a wide range of products like cane & bamboo; black pottery
work; textile weaving and Kauna handicraft to name a few. The people are highly trained and
skilled to make and produce these amazing handicrafts. To experience some of the rich
heritage of Manipur, it is a must to visit the handicraft market at Imphal. The women of
Manipur have expertise in weaving products from fibre. The Kauna Handicraft has got an
extensive range of products like wall hangings, purses, bags, jewellery boxes, mats, carpets
due to its property to take any desired shape and form.
Manipuri Handicrafts have a unique place among the many crafts in India due to its aesthetic
and artistic look and feel. Among them, Kauna art is widespread due to the abundant
procurement of raw material i.e., Kauna Plant. Also for its high demand in the market place.
The Kauna material is a plant-based material harvested from the Kauna Water Reed. It comes
as non-toxic and also has the property to insulate heat. It is also water-resistant which makes a
good durable material. As a result of great demand and popularity in the state and beyond, the
local artisans are earning their livelihood through this indigenous handicraft.
Sustainability is the need of the hour for a greener and cleaner earth. Incorporating eco
thoughts in the handicrafts sector is a great initiative to uplift the traditional craft of India with
a sustainable touch. Handicrafts represent the ethnic, environmental and historical
characteristics of the region and culture. Handicrafts in Manipur, due to its aesthetic and
artistic importance, have a unique position among the numerous crafts of the region. Due to the
abundance of raw materials and demand from both domestic and foreign customers, kouna
craft is popular among crafts. Through this indigenous craft, many locals in Manipur earn
their livelihood and it has opened up ample employment opportunities for local craftsmen in the
state. Improving the survival of those whose lives depend on geographically unique, high-
quality kouna craft has developed over time. Around 80 percent of the households in Thoubal
are active in practises related to kouna. Kouna, a grass-like herb, is typically grown in
marshlands and wetlands and is primarily grown in the village of Khangabok in Manipur.
The plant is largely cultivated in Manipur’s Khangabok village. This village is quite renowned
for its art of weaving kauna. Many successful entrepreneurs ran business helping many local
artisans earning their livelihood. The making began with the cultivation which can be harvested 3
times a year. Then it is set in the sun for drying. Mold are being made for shaping the form.
They are generally made in workshops ran by women thus providing employment over the
locality. They have a huge value at the handicraft market. People opt them for being a
sustainable and durable material . For large-scale cultivation, processing and selling of various
items such as cushions, mats, baskets, women’s handbags, footwear and furniture, these long
water reeds have immense potential. They are eco-friendly, sturdy, washable, and hand woven.
However, it is important
3. to make it more robust in the light. Many Kouna handicraft training programmes are held in
various areas, attended by many craftsmen. Many of them have been helping their families by
selling homemade Kouna pieces for the past 14 years. Then, the research stated the handicraft,
demographics, analysis of musculoskeletal disorders related to the handicraft workspace. This
study aims to study the objectives and analyse the results both subjectively and objectively and
propose a novel model.
1.1 LITERATURE REVIEW:
1.1.1 HANDICRAFT IN NORTH EASTERN INDIA:
Bamboo and Cane Craft - The Northeast region of India is known for its bamboo and
cane handicrafts. The skilled artisans of the region make a wide range of products using
these materials, including baskets, trays, hats, and furniture.
Manipuri Handloom - Manipur is known for its unique handloom textiles, including
the famous Phanek, a wraparound skirt worn by Manipuri women. The textiles are
made using traditional techniques and designs, and often incorporate bright colors and
intricate motifs.
Naga Handicrafts - The Nagas are known for their skilled craftsmanship in a variety of
materials, including wood, bamboo, and cane. Some of the famous Naga handicrafts
include baskets, shields, and carved wooden figurines.
Meghalaya Weaving - Meghalaya is known for its unique style of weaving, which
incorporates bright colors and bold designs. The traditional textile, called Ryndia, is
made using silk and cotton yarns and is often used to make shawls, scarves, and other
clothing items.
Mizoram Handicrafts - Mizoram is known for its skilled craftsmen who create a variety
of handicrafts, including bamboo and cane products, woven textiles, and wooden
carvings. Some of the famous Mizoram handicrafts include baskets, hats, and
traditional musical instruments.
India has a rich and diverse tradition of handicrafts, with each state and region having its
unique style and techniques. Handicrafts in India are made from a wide range of materials,
including wood, stone, clay, metal, textiles, and leather. The northeastern region of India is
home to a diverse range of handicrafts, with each state and community having its unique
style and techniques. Here are some examples of famous handicrafts of Northeast India:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Each craft has its unique history and cultural significance and represents the skilled
craftsmanship of the region's artisans. One such handicraft is Kauna handicraft of
Manipur.
4. 1.1.2 HANDICRAFT IN MANIPUR:
Manipur is a state in Northeast India, bordered by Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the
south, Assam to the west, and Myanmar to the east. Manipur has a rich cultural heritage
and is known for its diverse and unique traditions. The state is inhabited by various ethnic
communities, including the Meiteis, Nagas, Kukis, and Pangals.Overall, Manipur is a
culturally and geographically diverse state that has faced various challenges but has
immense potential for economic and social development. Manipur is known for its rich
cultural heritage and skilled artisans who create a variety of handicrafts. Here are some
examples of famous handicrafts of Manipur:
1. Pottery - Pottery making is a traditional craft in Manipur, with skilled artisans creating
a variety of clay items, including pots, vases, and figurines. The pottery of Manipur is
known for its unique shapes and designs.
2. Handloom Textiles - Manipur is known for its handloom textiles, including the famous
Phanek, a wraparound skirt worn by Manipuri women. The textiles are made using
traditional techniques and designs, and often incorporate bright colors and intricate
motifs.
3. Bamboo and Cane Craft - Manipur is known for its skilled craftsmen who create a
variety of products using bamboo and cane, including baskets, mats, and furniture. The
bamboo and cane products of Manipur are known for their durability and unique designs.
4. Wood Carving - Wood carving is a traditional craft in Manipur, with skilled artisans
creating a variety of wooden products, including furniture, figurines, and household items.
The wood carving of Manipur is known for its intricate designs and attention to detail.
5. Tribal Jewellery - The tribal communities of Manipur are known for their unique style of
jewellery, which often incorporates materials like beads, shells, and bones. The jewellery is
made by hand using traditional techniques and designs.
5. 1.2 ABOUT THE MATERIAL:
1.2.1 KOUNA GRASS:
Kouna grass is a type of water reed that grows in the wetlands and marshes of Manipur, a
state in northeastern India. Kouna grass is also known as water hyacinth, and is a highly
versatile and sustainable material that is used to create a variety of handicrafts. The
artisans of Manipur have been using kouna grass for centuries to make a variety of
products, including baskets, mats, bags, and hats. Kouna grass is known for its durability,
and products made from this material can last for many years with proper care. The
process of making handicrafts from kouna grass involves harvesting the grass, cleaning and
drying it, and then weaving it into the desired shape. Skilled artisans use a variety of
weaving techniques to create intricate designs and patterns, making each product unique
and one-of-a-kind. In recent years, kouna grass handicrafts have gained popularity outside
of Manipur, with people all over India and the world appreciating the unique beauty and
sustainable nature of these products. Kouna grass handicrafts not only provide livelihoods
to the artisans of Manipur, but also promote eco- friendly and sustainable practices.
The plant is generally soft and spongy on the inside. The quality is better if it is more
spongier. The plant is cultivated thrice a year during spring, summer and autumn.The
plant can grow upto 25 years.
Group :Angiosperm (Monocotyledon)
Family :Cyperaceae
Genus :Schoenoplectus
Species :lacustris (Linn.) Palla
Habit: Aquatic terete herb
Parts Used :Root, Stem
1.2.2 PROPERTIES & CULTIVATION:
The plant grows to a height of around 6 ft. They are naturally non-toxic to insects. It can
help curb water pollution by absorbing the harmful poisonous substances from the water
bodies.Due to its dense rooting system they provided shelters for fish colonies and wild
birds. The crop can be harvested thrice a year. They are harvested during Spring, Summer
and Autumn. The plant fibres are then cut and harvested when it reaches its full height
upto a height of 6 feet or more. To dry it they are dried out in the bright sun thoroughly.
Also, it can sometimes be spread and smoked to let it dry. This is being done so as to make
sure that the inner fibres of the stem are completely dried to prevent mould from thriving.
Then they are provided for storing
6. 1.3 SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF HANDICRAFT IN NE INDIA:
Today’s world is all about responsible living and our lifestyle speaks a lot about how we
are, being conscious about our environment is the need of the hour for a greener and
cleaner earth. So by saying no to plastics - yes to all natural products and keeping our rich
north east culture & tradition in mind, we started an ethically run earth conscious brand,
responsible for creating sustainable home furnishing and decor products from North East,
India. In the line of working towards a conscious living, empowering the local women and
the rural artisans, we have been bringing the traditional handloom and handicrafts of
North East, India with contemporary styling - exclusively designed, curated and
handpicked by us. An initiative to empower our local artisans, weavers & women by
focusing on their age old skills and giving them a stage to bring their work and art to a
wider audience through our platform. Handicrafts in North East, India due to its aesthetic
and artistic importance, have a unique position among the numerous crafts of the region.
Due to the abundance of raw materials and demand from both domestic and foreign
customers, India has long been a hub for bamboo, cane and kouna products. Since ancient
times, bamboo and cane were used by the tribals as a means for expressing their creativity
and artistic streak as well as to make useful items of daily use. Over the years, bamboo,
cane and kouna grass products have continued to be in great demand and the latest trend
when it comes to home decor. Incorporating eco thoughts in the handicrafts and handloom
sector is a great initiative to uplift the traditional craft of India with a sustainable touch.
Through this indigenous craft, many locals in Manipur, Assam and Meghalaya earn their
livelihood and has opened up ample employment opportunities for local craftsmen,
artisans, weavers in the state, specially the women workers. Many local artisans, especially
women folk, Inspite of running their household chores, taking care of their kids and
families are involved in making products from these natural raw materials and in return
become socially and economically independent, by earning well for themselves and their
families.
1.4 GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES:
Government have been organising many handicraft and handloom training programmes in
various villages which are aimed at the upliftment of these hard working women weaver
and artisans for their socio-economic development. The entire cottage industry are run by
our hard working women who are particularly noted for their active economic
participation in the upliftment of the state economy and are rebooted for their collective
empowerment and strong force. Therefore the entire programme is specially focused with a
concern for these women empowerment and their economic independence.
7. 1.5 MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS AND ERGONOMIC INTERVENTION:
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a group of medical conditions that affect the
muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and other components of the musculoskeletal system.
These disorders can cause pain, limited mobility, and reduced quality of life for individuals.
Common MSDs include arthritis, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and osteoporosis. In
this discussion, we will explore the nature of musculoskeletal disorders and various
interventions to manage and prevent them.The musculoskeletal system plays a fundamental
role in supporting the body’s structure and facilitating movement. MSDs encompass a wide
range of conditions, each with its own unique characteristics. Arthritis, for instance,
involves the inflammation of joints, leading to pain and stiffness. Back pain, a prevalent
musculoskeletal issue, can result from various causes such as herniated discs, muscle
strains, or spinal abnormalities. Carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, affects the
wrist and hand, often due to pressure on the median nerve. Osteoporosis is a condition
where the bones become fragile and prone to fractures, primarily affecting the elderly.
Interventions for musculoskeletal disorders encompass a holistic approach that includes
prevention, conservative treatments, and surgical options. Prevention is a key component,
involving lifestyle modifications and ergonomics to reduce the risk of developing MSDs.
Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and using proper body mechanics
are essential. Occupational settings can adopt ergonomic measures to reduce the risk of
work-related MSDs. When an individual develops an MSD, conservative treatments are
often the first line of defense. These may include physical therapy, pain management, anti-
inflammatory medications, and assistive devices. Physical therapy aims to improve mobility
and reduce pain through exercises and manual techniques. Pain management can involve
non-prescription or prescription drugs, depending on the severity of the condition.
Assistive devices like braces or splints provide additional support. In some cases, when
conservative measures do not provide adequate relief, surgical interventions may be
necessary. Joint replacement surgeries, such as hip or knee replacements, are common
procedures for severe arthritis. Spinal surgeries can address issues like herniated discs or
spinal stenosis. Surgical options are typically considered when the benefits outweigh the
risks, and non-surgical treatments have been exhausted. Innovations in medical technology
have also contributed to the management of MSDs. Advanced imaging techniques, such as
MRI and CT scans, enable more accurate diagnoses. Minimally invasive surgical
approaches have reduced the recovery time for some procedures. Additionally, regenerative
medicine and stem cell therapies show promise in promoting tissue repair and regeneration
for certain MSDs.It is worth noting that psychosocial factors, including mental health, can
significantly impact the experience of musculoskeletal disorders. Chronic pain and
disability associated with MSDs can lead to depression, anxiety, and decreased quality of
life. Therefore, interventions often extend to mental health support, such as counseling or
cognitive-behavioral therapy, to address these aspects.
8. 2. MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This study is based on cross-sectional to assess the prevalence of MSDs among Kouna
weavers. The study was carried out in one of the prime weaving village in India Manipur,
Khangabok a Village of Thoubal Village in Manipur. The exposed population consisted of
weavers engaged in this handicraft industry for at least 5-10 years. There are at least 2000
women weavers who are dependent of this handicraft.
2.1 STUDY TOOLS AND METHODS:
Ergonomic assessment methods
Ergonomic assessment methods are vital to determine the risk factors and evaluate the risk
level of ergonomics exist in the working environment. In this section, two types of
ergonomic assessment methods have been chosen to be reviewed. The methods chosen are
Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) and Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA).
These two methods are the popular methods which are often referred by the researchers in
the study of ergonomics.
Ergonomic Assessment tool used:
2.2.1 RAPID ENTIRE BODY ASSESSMENT (REBA)
Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) is an ergonomic assessment tool used to evaluate
the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) associated with different tasks. REBA is
designed to analyze and quantify the level of physical stress and discomfort experienced by
a worker while performing a task.
The REBA ergonomic assessment method involves observing the worker and taking into
account factors such as the posture, force, repetition, and duration of the task. A score is
then calculated based on the observed factors to determine the level of ergonomic risk
associated with the task. The score is usually represented graphically in the form of a
REBA chart or diagram, which is used to identify areas of the body that are most at risk of
developing MSDs. The REBA assessment can be used in a variety of workplace settings,
including manufacturing, healthcare, and office environments. It is an effective tool for
identifying and addressing ergonomic risks before they lead to MSDs and can help to
improve worker health, safety, and productivity.
In summary, the REBA ergonomic assessment method is a useful tool for evaluating the
ergonomic risks associated with different tasks and can help to identify and address
potential MSDs in the workplace.
9. 2.2.2 RAPID UPPER LIMB ASSESSMENT (RULA)
Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) is an ergonomic assessment tool used to evaluate
the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) associated with upper limb tasks. RULA is
designed to assess and quantify the level of physical stress and discomfort experienced by a
worker while performing upper limb tasks such as lifting, pushing, and pulling. The RULA
ergonomic assessment method involves observing the worker and taking into account
factors such as the posture, force, repetition, and duration of the task. A score is then
calculated based on the observed factors to determine the level of ergonomic risk associated
with the task. The score is usually represented graphically in the form of a RULA chart or
diagram, which is used to identify areas of the body that are most at risk of developing
MSDs. RULA is a quick and easy-to-use ergonomic assessment tool that can be used in a
variety of workplace settings. It is an effective tool for identifying and addressing ergonomic
risks before they lead to MSDs and can help to improve worker health, safety, and
productivity.
In summary, the RULA ergonomic assessment method is a useful tool for evaluating the
ergonomic risks associated with upper limb tasks and can help to identify and address
potential MSDs in the workplace.
2.2 USE OF REBA & RULA IN IDENTIFYING MSDs IN HANDICRAFT ARTISANS.
REBA and RULA can be effective tools for detecting musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in
handicraft workers, especially those who perform repetitive and/or prolonged upper limb
tasks. These tools can help to identify ergonomic risks associated with the tasks performed
by the workers and provide recommendations for reducing these risks. Handicraft workers
often perform tasks such as sewing, knitting, or embroidery, which require repetitive and
prolonged upper limb movements. These movements can lead to MSDs such as tendinitis,
carpal tunnel syndrome, or shoulder impingement syndrome. REBA and RULA can be
used to evaluate the ergonomic risk associated with these tasks and identify potential
interventions to reduce the risk of developing MSDs. Using REBA or RULA, the worker's
posture, force, repetition, and duration of the task are evaluated to determine the level of
ergonomic risk. Based on the score obtained from the assessment, recommendations can be
made to improve the worker's workstation, tools, and equipment, and to provide training
on safe work practices and ergonomics. Implementing these recommendations can help to
reduce the risk of developing MSDs in handicraft workers and improve their overall health
and productivity.
In summary, REBA and RULA can be useful tools for detecting MSDs in handicraft
workers by identifying ergonomic risks associated with their tasks and providing
recommendations for reducing these risks. Regular use of these tools can help to promote a
safe and healthy work environment for handicraft workers.
10. 3. HYPOTHESIS DEVELOPMENT:
This research is aimed to present an active analysis on the effect of the ergonomic
perception towards the artisan’s performance. In order to determine independent variable
and dependable variable for the research, a lot of searching from journals, previous
research papers, online books and articles were critically reviewed, and hypotheses
constructed.
• Hypothesis: There is a significant relation between human variable and productivity
4. AIM AND OBJECTIVES:
This research work aims to design and evaluate an ergonomic intervention to minimise the
risk of musculoskeletal disorders in Kouna Handicraft artisans. In order to achieve the
stated aim, the following objectives were laid down:
Objective 1: To investigate the current working conditions in workspace in terms of:
(a) Investigation of the prevalence of WMSDs among the artisans,
(b) Risk assessment of awkward working posture among artisans,
(c) Pre-testing of the proposed intervention using digital human modelling.
Objective 2: To identify specific activity that gives high potential for the improvement ofthe
existing method and to reduce musculoskeletal disorders in the artisans.
Objective 3: To introduce a novel weaving workspace method/style
11.
12. 6. Discussion:
Result interpretation for the task of Weaving:
RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) is an ergonomic assessment tool used to evaluate
the ergonomic risks associated with upper limb and neck tasks. The RULA score ranges
from 1 to 7, with higher scores indicating a higher level of ergonomic risk. A RULA score
of 5 is considered a moderate risk score, indicating that some ergonomic improvements
may be necessary to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) or discomfort. In
this response, we will explore the meaning of a RULA score of 5 and provide guidance on
how to interpret this score and take action to improve ergonomic conditions in the
workplace.
When a task is given a RULA score of 5, it suggests that the task involves some awkward
postures or movements that could lead to discomfort or injury if not addressed. For
example, the task may require workers to reach, twist, or bend in a way that puts strain on
their upper limbs or neck. This could cause musculoskeletal disorders, which are injuries or
disorders that affect the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or joints. These disorders can
cause pain, discomfort, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the affected area.
A RULA score of 5 does not mean that the task is necessarily hazardous or unsafe, but it
does indicate that some improvements may be necessary to reduce the risk of MSDs or
discomfort. These improvements could include changes to the work environment, such as
modifying the workstation or adjusting the tools or equipment used in the task. For
example, workers may need to adjust the height of their chairs or desks, or use ergonomic
tools or equipment that reduce strain on their upper limbs and neck. In addition, workers
may need to take more frequent breaks or switch to different tasks to avoid repetitive
motions or sustained postures that can lead to MSDs.
It is important to note that RULA is a subjective assessment tool, meaning that it relies on
the observer's judgment to assign scores to different aspects of the task. Therefore, different
observers may assign different scores to the same task, depending on their perception of the
ergonomic risks involved. This variability highlights the need for multiple assessments by
different observers to obtain a more accurate picture of the ergonomic risks associated with
a task.
To interpret a RULA score of 5, it is important to consider the specific aspects of the task
that were evaluated and the context in which the task is performed. For example, a score of
5 for a task that is performed infrequently may be less concerning than a score of 5 for a
task that is performed frequently throughout the day. Similarly, a score of 5 for a task that
involves heavy lifting or forceful exertion may be more concerning than a score of 5 for a
task that involves light or moderate exertion.
It is also important to note that a RULA score of 5 may be an average score across
multiple aspects of the task. For example, the task may involve some postures or
movements that score higher than 5 and some that score lower than 5, resulting in an
overall score of 5. Therefore, it is important to review the detailed assessment results to
identify the specific aspects of the task that require improvement.
13. In summary, a RULA score of 5 indicates a moderate level of ergonomic risk associated
with a task and suggests that some improvements may be necessary to reduce the risk of
MSDs or discomfort. The specific improvements required will depend on the specific
aspects of the task that were evaluated and the context in which the task is performed. To
improve ergonomic conditions in the workplace, it is important to conduct regular
ergonomic assessments, involve workers in the assessment process, and implement targeted
interventions to reduce ergonomic risks and improve worker health and safety.
Result Interpretation for the task of Harvesting:
A RULA score of 4 is considered a low-moderate risk score, indicating that the ergonomic
risk associated with the task is relatively low.
When a task is given a RULA score of 4, it suggests that the task involves some postures or
movements that may be slightly awkward, but not to the point where they are likely to
cause discomfort or injury. The task may involve some movements that could cause fatigue
over time, but are not likely to cause musculoskeletal disorders. This score suggests that the
task is generally safe and unlikely to cause ergonomic problems.
However, it is important to note that a low RULA score does not necessarily mean that the
task is completely safe, and ergonomic improvements can still be made to reduce the risk of
injury or discomfort. A score of 4 indicates that the task is relatively low-risk, but there
may be some improvements that could be made to further reduce the ergonomic risks
associated with the task.
To interpret a RULA score of 4, it is important to consider the specific aspects of the task
that were evaluated and the context in which the task is performed. For example, a score of
4 for a task that is performed infrequently may be less concerning than a score of 4 for a
task that is performed frequently throughout the day. Similarly, a score of 4 for a task that
involves light or moderate exertion may be less concerning than a score of 4 for a task that
involves heavy lifting or forceful exertion.
Overall, a RULA score of 4 indicates that the ergonomic risks associated with a task are
relatively low-moderate, but there may still be room for improvement to further reduce the
risk of injury or discomfort. Regular ergonomic assessments should be conducted to
identify potential ergonomic risks and interventions should be implemented to reduce those
risks and improve worker health and safety.:
16. 8.Discussion & Conclusion:
A RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) score of 2 indicates that the ergonomic risks
associated with the evaluated task are relatively low. The RULA score is used to evaluate
ergonomic risks associated with upper limb and neck tasks. A score of 2 indicates that the
task has very low ergonomic risks associated with it.
When a task receives a RULA score of 2, it suggests that the posture and movements
involved in the task are very comfortable and natural. The task involves little or no
awkward postures, and there is no or minimal strain on the muscles and joints. The
movements and postures involved in the task are unlikely to cause discomfort, fatigue, or
musculoskeletal disorders.
A score of 2 indicates that the ergonomic risks associated with the task are very low, and
the task is considered safe and comfortable for workers to perform. It is important to note
that while a RULA score of 2 is excellent, it is important to maintain regular ergonomic
assessments to ensure that the task remains safe and comfortable for workers.
It is also important to consider the context in which the task is being performed. For
example, a task that receives a RULA score of 2 may be performed infrequently, or it may
involve light exertion or minimal force. In contrast, a task that involves heavy lifting or
forceful exertion may still receive a low RULA score, but it may have a higher level of
ergonomic risk associated with it.
In general, a RULA score of 2 is excellent and suggests that the task is safe and
comfortable for workers to perform. However, it is important to keep in mind that
ergonomic risks can arise from other factors, such as repetitive motions, prolonged
standing or sitting, and exposure to vibration or noise. Therefore, it is important to
maintain regular ergonomic assessments to identify potential risks and implement
interventions to reduce those risks and improve worker health and safety.
In conclusion, a RULA score of 2 indicates that the ergonomic risks associated with a task
are very low, and the task is considered safe and comfortable for workers to perform.
However, it is important to maintain regular ergonomic assessments to ensure that the task
remains safe and comfortable for workers, and to identify and address any potential
ergonomic risks that may arise.
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Indian Council for Cultural Relations. (2017). Crafts of North-East India. Indian
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