Title: Ergonomic assessment of taxicabs using participatory ergonomic intervention approach among Southwestern Nigerian drivers

Authors: Ayodele Samuel Onawumi; Emmanuel Babajide Lucas

Addresses: Mechanical Engineering Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000 Ogbomoso, Nigeria. ' Mechanical Engineering Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, PMB 4000 Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Abstract: This work investigates the opinion of operators of taxicabs in Nigeria on some ergonomic factors influencing their safety, comfort and performance while driving. Participatory ergonomic intervention approach (PEIA) and work area analysis were used in the evaluation of ergonomic suitability of driver-vehicle system. 1,406 drivers were sampled randomly in the study area and a minimum responds rate of 92% was achieved. Significant among the WRMD observed at the three body segments are discomforts at the right and left wrists, upper, middle and lower back, buttock and neck of the operators. The potentials of carrying out ergonomic investigation on taxicab operators through direct involvement of major stakeholders in the transportation business has been demonstrated and found very necessary in the development of user friendly vehicle for taxicab operator in Nigeria.

Keywords: ergonomic assessment; participatory ergonomic intervention approach; PEIA; work-related musculoskeletal disorders; WRMD; taxicab operators; extremity link system; taxi drivers; Nigeria; ergonomics; driver safety; driver comfort; driver performance.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2012.047717

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2012 Vol.25 No.1/2/3, pp.33 - 44

Published online: 26 Nov 2014 *

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