Evaluation of work posture with quick exposure check (Qec) at workstations for toluenesulfonyl hydrazide and azodicarbonamide reactions in the chemical processing industry

Poor work posture is a major cause of work-related skeletal muscle disorders and is often found in the chemical industry. The highest risk for skeletal muscle disorders due to work is in the upper arm and wrist. This study aims to evaluate ergonomics as a reference for assessing factors that affect skeletal muscle disorders due to work, one of which is work posture. The study uses qualitative analysis with descriptive observations of work posture in workers using Quick Exposure Check. The study was conducted at two work stations: The toluenesulfonyl hydrazide and azodicarbonamide reactions in the chemical processing industry. The two stations were chosen because they involved transport activities and presented similarities in the characteristics of the work. The results of the exposure score calculations show that the value for the shoulder/arm and back were at a very high level, with a very high risk of injury. Exposure levels at both work stations were in the range of 81–94%. This shows that further research is needed to investigate and determine immediate changes.