RISK ASSESSMENT OF WORKING: A CASE STUDY OF GAS LIGHTER ASSEMBLY IN WORKPLACE AT MAE SAI DISTRICT, CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Abstract

          This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the occupational hazards among workers in a gas lighter assembly enterprise in Chiang Rai and assess ergonomic risks in the firearms production process. The 25 participants utilized questionnaires, Job Safety Analysis (JSA) techniques, and Rapid Upper Limbs Assessment (RULA) techniques to assess both occupational and ergonomic risks. Descriptive statistic was conducted. The results of the risk assessment using the JSA technique showed that the highest level of risk (level 4) of safety hazards, which is considered unacceptable risk, requires immediate cessation of operations, and corrective measures to reduce the risk. The safety hazard such as employees being exposed to gases that could ignite and cause fires if there are sparks. The ergonomical hazard, employees experience symptoms of musculoskeletal pain from bending and tilting their heads while working, as well as having to work under time pressure.  Additionally, there is chemical hazard such as employees being exposed to gases. Furthermore, the ergonomic risk assessment using RULA indicated that most employees in the firearm assembly department have a high level of risk, with 64% falling into level 3. This is primarily due to repetitive arm or hand movements, twisting of the torso, and bending forward. Additionally, there is a 20% occurrence of the very high level of risk (level 4) and a 16% occurrence of moderate risk (level 2). These data can be utilized for workflow improvements and improve the safety of workstations in order to reduce long-term health risk factors.