Ergonomics for electronics manufacturing

Electronics manufacturing often requires small batch sizes and a large variety of products that change quickly with time, and therefore highly automated manufacturing systems are not often used to produce such products. The processes often require manual assembly tasks performed by operators that could potentially lead to work related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This article discusses the implementation of an ergonomics program in an electronics assembly and manufacturing plant to prevent WMSDs. The program comprises of ergonomics job evaluations, job rotation, ergonomics design, guidelines and training; each implemented with a varying degree of success. The results indicate that relatively simple tools can be used to identify effective ergonomics solutions, particularly when a participatory approach is used.