arpe training for manual handling workers: a quasi-experimental study on ergonomic knowledge and practice

Conditions: Occupational Diseases; Work Related Upper Limb Disorder

Summary: the goal of this study is to evaluate whether an augmented reality-based ergonomic training module (arpe) can improve ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation practices among adult manual material handling (mmh) workers in warehouses. the main questions it aims to answer are: does the arpe training module improve workers' ergonomic knowledge? does it enhance their ability to prevent and assess risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (wmsds)? researchers will compare an intervention group using the arpe module with a control group receiving traditional training based on national ergonomic guidelines to see if the ar module leads to better outcomes. participants will: attend a briefing and use the arpe training via the makar xr app complete self-assessment questionnaires at baseline, week 1, and week 6 receive reminders and follow-ups through whatsapp

this study is a quasi-experimental trial designed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the augmented reality physical ergonomics (arpe) training module among manual material handling (mmh) workers in malaysia. mmh workers face a high risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (wmsds) due to frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of heavy objects. traditional ergonomic training methods-such as lectures and printed materials-have been found to be less engaging and may not lead to effective behavior change. the arpe module uses augmented reality (ar) technology through the makar xr mobile app to provide immersive and interactive ergonomic training. the goal is to enhance the understanding of proper manual handling techniques, promote self-assessment, and encourage preventive behaviors in real work settings. two groups will be included in the study: intervention group: receives arpe training using the makar xr app control group: receives conventional ergonomic training based on national dosh (department of occupational safety and health) guidelines the study includes three phases: introduction phase: participants are briefed on their training, and baseline data is collected on ergonomic knowledge and practices. intervention phase: participants interact with their respective training (arpe or conventional), with engagement monitored and supported via whatsapp. post-intervention phase (6 weeks later): participants complete follow-up questionnaires to assess retention of ergonomic knowledge and application of safe practices. the main outcomes are improvement in ergonomic knowledge (primary), and changes in self-prevention and self-evaluation behaviors (secondary). usability of the arpe module will also be assessed using a validated mobile health app questionnaire (m-mauq). this study aims to demonstrate that ar-based training can be a more effective and engaging alternative to traditional methods, potentially reducing the risk of wmsds and improving workplace safety.

Eligibility criteria:
inclusion criteria: malaysian citizen age 18 years and above currently employed as a manual material handling (mmh) worker in a warehouse regularly performs mmh tasks (e.g., lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or restraining objects weighing 14 kg or more) works a minimum of 8 hours per day in a role involving mmh owns a mobile phone capable of downloading and running the makar xr app exclusion criteria: pregnant currently an intern or temporary worker has undergone ergonomic training within the past six months

Keywords: augmented reality (ar) ergonomic work related musculo skeletal disorder (wmsd)