Discussion after implementation of possible ergonomics contributions in production lines automation project

• Main Authors: José Adriano Canton, Andrea Regina Martins Fontes, Isaías Torres
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade Estadual Paulista 2016-11-01
• Series: GEPROS: Gestão da Produção, Operações e Sistemas
• Subjects: Ergonomics of Activity; Ergonomic Work Analysis; Technologic innovation; Automation; Molded pulp packaging; Social process of design
• Online Access: http://revista.feb.unesp.br/index.php/gepros/article/view/1585

This paper addresses the issue of work spaces designed based on Activity-Centered Ergonomics. The aim was to reflect on the role of Ergonomics in the design of productive situations in order to anticipate and mitigate the emergence of new constraints. This study was developed using a case study from the packaging industry, where an automated line was implemented to mitigate the injuries suffered as result of the manual system. This article was based on the results of an Ergonomic Work Analysis of the solution implemented, and the subsequent analysis of this design process. It was found that the adopted solution does not have enough leeway for dealing with variations inherent to the process, requiring constant interventions in the operation, by the operators in order to free the line to continue work. It was evident that the adopted solution did not involve the participation of important agents such as the operators and the maintenance crew, giving the project a technical vision that was concerned with eliminating the human factor. The conclusion of this study was that the Ergonomics integrated into the project development favors the collective construction of analysis of the research, and consequently, the development of more effective solutions.