A Methodology for the Analysis and Prediction of Back Injuries in Apparel Manufacturing

Abstract

This research uses a proactive methodology for the analysis and prevention of industrial back injuries, called Continuous Safety Sampling Methodology (CSSM), which was developed at the University of Texas at El Paso. The CSSM utilizes principles of work sampling and control charting. Sampling is performed to observe the occurrence of conditions which may become hazardous (prone to cause instantaneous or cumulative back trauma) in a given system. These conditions, known as dendritics, could eventually result in an injury or occupational disease. The Continuous Safety Sampling Methodology performs a random sampling for the occurrence of these dendritics. The collected data is then used to generate a control chart. Based on the pattern of the control chart, a system “under control” is not disturbed whereas a system “out of control” is investigated for potential conditions becoming hazardous. Appropriate steps can then be taken to eliminate or control these potentially dangerous and costly conditions to maintain a safe system. The CSSM was successfully implemented in an Apparel manufacturing plant, providing insights on how the system was becoming dangerous, and providing insights as to the reasons why.