Design of outboard boat engine lifter trolley for fishing industry based on ergonomics analysis
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Author |
M. S. Md Yusop, S. Mat, M. A. Abdullah, N. M. Daud, A. R. Dullah and N. F. Adull Manan
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e-ISSN |
1819-6608 |
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On Pages
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1442-1449
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Volume No. |
20
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Issue No. |
17
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Issue Date |
December 15, 2025
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DOI |
https://doi.org/10.59018/0925164
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Keywords |
outboard boat engine, ergonomics, trolley, rapid upper limb assessment (RULA).
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Abstract
Small-scale fishers often face significant ergonomic challenges when transporting outboard boat engines, which are heavy and difficult to handle. At Pantai Puteri fishing village in Melaka, Malaysia, this task is commonly performed manually, exposing fishers to risks of back pain and musculoskeletal disorders due to awkward postures and repetitive lifting. Addressing these issues is critical for improving occupational health and safety in fishing communities. This study aims to propose a design solution that enhances work procedures and reduces ergonomic risks associated with carrying outboard boat engines. The Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) method was employed to evaluate fisher postures under both the existing manual handling approach and the newly proposed lifter trolley design. Results showed that the current practice produced a RULA score of 6 (orange), indicating a posture that requires urgent investigation and corrective measures to prevent injury. In contrast, the proposed lifter trolley reduced the score to 3 (yellow), representing a 50% improvement in posture and a substantial reduction in ergonomic risk. The findings highlight the effectiveness of the lifter trolley in mitigating musculoskeletal strain, improving safety, and promoting sustainable work practices for small-scale fishers. By integrating ergonomic principles into equipment design, this study contributes to practical solutions that can enhance the well-being and productivity of fishing communities while reducing long-term health risks.
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