A Review on Initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment (Inera) Report for Rubber-Based Manufacturing Industry in Klang Valley, Selangor

Malaysia is ranked in the 8th position among the world’s top ten producers of natural rubber. The process of mixing, moulding, finishing and office is chosen as workunit for this research. Based on the process and work unit to manufacture rubber products,
it may expose production operators to ergonomic risks and hazards. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the trend of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and the prominent ergonomic risk factor that affects MSDs. Apart from that is to recommend as well as conclude the best practices to reduce the MSDs in the rubber manufacturing sector in Klang Valley, Selangor. This study utilized qualitative content analysis based on reliable secondary data: Initial Ergonomic Risk Assessment (INERA) Report produced
by a DOSH-approved and recognized ergonomic trained person. Three INERA reports from the rubber manufacturing industry located in Klang Valley were chosen as the samples for the study. Thematic analysis was employed to identify the elements required for this study. The findings revealed two big themes: musculoskeletal discomfort area and ergonomic risk factors. It then contributed to a sub-theme which are four work units – mixing, moulding, finishing, and office. The study outcomes will contribute to the trend of musculoskeletal disorder, the most prominent ergonomic risk, and the recommended control measure for this issue. Future studies may require investigating the ergonomic assessment in the rubber manufacturing industry of other states in Malaysia and other industries.