Abstract:
Abstract
Background: The term “anthropometry” refers to many types of
measurements which completely describe the human form. It is the science of
measurement of the human body that helps to explain the complexities of the
human form and how it interferes with the environment. For designing any
product, designers have to rely on scientific anthropometric data which can be
used to design spaces that fit the largest number of people. Otherwise the
output may turn out to be non-ergonomically designed product. This can
contribute to biomechanical stresses and increase the risk of cumulative trauma
and carpal tunnel syndrome for workers. So, for the designing and
implementing of safe tools, it is essential to use anthropometric data.
Aims and objectives of the study: The study aims was to measure the
anthropometry of sewing machine operators of garments workers in
Bangladesh. The three objectives were, to measure and summarize about 26
anthropometric body dimensions of sewing machine operators; to compare the
dimensions of male from the female operators; and to determine the association
between demographic factors and anthropometric body dimensions.
Methodology: A cross sectional study of quantitative design was selected as
the research design to fulfill the research aim and objectives. The study was
carried out from the garment named “Blue Cap Need Fashion Undergarment
Limited” which is situated at Baipaill of Savar thana. 137 sewing machine
operators were selected randomly to carry out the research.
Result and discussion: 26 dimensions were measured and summarized by
analyzing the data. T-test results show significant differences in all dimensions
(P=.001; P<.05) except in two dimensions (sitting leg length, abdominal
depth) between male and female sewing operators and the mean average male
body dimensions were higher than the female body dimensions. Paired sample
t-test results show that the association between demographic factors and
anthropometric body dimensions were (P=.001; P<.05).
Conclusion: Anthropometry plays an important role for ergonomics
intervention. Understanding anthropometry is essential to the application of
ergonomics. Anthropometry provides the parameters of human size and shape
that allow designers to fulfill the needs of both comfort and function.
