International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics (4 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Design and evaluation of a novel user-centred cassava extractor  
  by Hilma Raimona Zadry, Insannul Kamil, Megi Saputra 
  Abstract: Cassava is a vital crop in Indonesias agricultural sector, yet manual harvesting in West Sumatra remains labour-intensive. This study aims to develop an ergonomic cassava extractor that enhances efficiency while reducing farmers physical workload. The tool was evaluated based on extraction time, physical workload (%CVL), cassava damage, and harvested weight. Results show a 20.59% reduction in extraction time, a 15.24% decrease in physical workload, a 28% reduction in cassava damage, and a 30.77% increase in harvested weight. Economic analysis indicates a manufacturing cost of IDR 412,000.00 per unit, making it accessible to small-scale farmers. The proposed solution demonstrates improved functionality, user-friendliness, and efficiency compared to traditional methods. This ergonomic innovation addresses key challenges in cassava harvesting and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
  Keywords: cassava extractor; user-centred design; ergonomic tools; physical workload; extraction efficiency; agricultural ergonomics; small-scale farmers; sustainable agriculture; Indonesia; West Sumatra; manual harvesting.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJHFE.2025.10072333
   
  
• Ergonomic assessment of coconut dehusking tools based on bilateral hand muscle activity using surface electromyography  
  by Naveen Kumar Raju, Shankar Subramaniam, NithyaPrakash Rajavel, Abbas Ganesan, Chander Prakash 
  Abstract: This study examines the ergonomic effects of four widely used coconut dehusking tools lever, hook, machete, and crowbar by evaluating muscle activity, median power frequency (MPF), and subjective discomfort. Muscle activity from the extensor carpi radialis (ECR) and biceps brachii was recorded using surface electromyography (sEMG) during dehusking of both dry and green coconuts. Subjective discomfort was measured with Borgs CR-10 scale. Results revealed that the lever tool exhibited the lowest maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) values, along with a decline in MPF trends, indicating reduced muscle activation and fatigue, and was rated as the least discomforting compared to other tools. The hook tool caused moderate muscle strain and discomfort, while the machete and crowbar showed the highest levels of muscle activity and discomfort, with the crowbar being the most detrimental. Overall, the lever tool emerged as the most ergonomically favourable, minimising muscle strain and discomfort, thus making it the optimal tool for reducing physical strain and enhancing user comfort during coconut dehusking tasks. Findings from this study can be used in designing coconut dehusking tools to reduce muscle fatigue.
  Keywords: coconut dehuskers; electromyography; product development; musculoskeletal disorders.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJHFE.2025.10072555
   
  
• Mismatch between anthropometric fit and user satisfaction in wheelchair provision: insights from Peru and implications for Latin America  
  by Carlos Manuel Escobar Galindo, Juliet Carolyn Apagueño Estrada, Nayeli Alexia Estrella Manrique, Richard Raitt Rodríguez Rojas 
  Abstract: To determine whether there is an association between user satisfaction with wheelchair use and the degree of anthropometric fit in individuals with physical disabilities. Data were collected using the adapted Spanish version of the QUEST 2.0 to assess satisfaction and the anthropometric fit checklist for objective evaluation. Overall, 70.6% of participants exhibited poor anthropometric fit, while only 43.1% reported moderate to high satisfaction. Significant associations were found between satisfaction and armrest (p = 0.032) and footrest (p = 0.004) height, though regression results revealed contradictory directions (e.g., inadequate armrest fit associated with higher satisfaction). Subjective satisfaction does not reliably reflect biomechanical adequacy. Findings highlight the need for objective assessments and further research on contextual factors influencing user perceptions.
  Keywords: satisfaction; anthropometry; assistive technology; wheelchair; disability; Peru; Latin America.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJHFE.2025.10072897
   
  
• The role of perceived work environment for working remotely in 2021-2023 a longitudinal cohort study of Finnish knowledge workers  
  by Annina Ropponen, Suvi Hirvonen, Annu Haapakangas 
  Abstract: This study of 1,112 volunteer knowledge employees aimed to investigate the role of perceived work environment, measured as work environment without distractions at the workplace and in remote work, and environmental satisfaction at workplace, for remote workdays/week in four time points across 20212023. The fixed effects regression models showed that each one-point increase in the work environment with the possibility to concentrate at the workplace increased the likelihood of more remote workdays (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01, 1.08), while work environment in remote work decreased (IRR 0.94, 95%CI 0.90, 0.99). Social isolation (IRR 1.08, 95%CI 1.04, 1.12) and adjustment to remote work (IRR 1.11, 95%CI 1.03, 1.18) were associated with a higher likelihood of more remote workdays. Thus, workplaces and occupational health care should consider remote work to support employees both in the aspects of the work environment but also for social contacts and adjustments.
  Keywords: telework; work environment; longitudinal; cohort study; sick leave; isolation; adjustment; social contacts; working time.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJHFE.2025.10072998