ERGONOMIC ANALYSIS OF FARMERS' WORKING POSTURES IN THE CASSAVA (Manihot Esculenta) HARVESTING PROCESS USING THE REBA (RAPID ENTIRE BODY ASSESSMENT) AND NBM (NORDIC BODY MAP) METHODS

Abstract

Cassava is strategic food commodity in Lampung Province. However, the harvesting process is still carried out manually, requiring repetitive bending, lifting, and load – carrying postures that may lead to Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) in farmers. This study aims to analyze the ergonomic risk of working postures in each element of cassava harvesting using the Rapid Entire Body Assesment (REBA) work posture assesment method and the Nordic Body Map (NBM) questionnaire, as well as provide improvement recommendations. The research was conducted in Teluk Baru Village, Dente Teladas District, East Lampung Regency, involving six farmers. An observational approach was applied in the farmers’ field by recording video of activities for each work element and adminestering the NBM questionnaire before and after activities. REBA scores were obtained throught joint angle measurements and risk score calculations, while NBM data were processed based on likert scale to determine the level of complaints. The results show that several work elements have high to very high REBA scores accompanied by increased NBM complaints, leading to recommendations for posture improvements and the use of simple aids to reduce MSDs risk and enhance farmers’ safety and working comfort.