A study on foundry men\u27s worklife and work efficiency

This study gives emphasis on the importance of improved working conditions of foundry workers. The study was conducted to various foundry shops within Metro Manila. A survey was conducted to determine the rate of foundry workers\u27 occupational injury. As a result, there exists a high incidence rate of occupational injury, which was also validated by the data from the Bureau of Labor and Employment Statistics. An analysis was conducted to determine the particular workstation in foundry operation that requires ergonomic study by pinpointing which workstation incurred greater cost in relation to workers\u27 injury. Result of the analysis showed that pouring workstation needs immediate attention. Human Engineering, Anthropometry and Ergonomics were used to improve the fit between worker and his tasks. Statistical analysis, like ANOVA, was utilized to establish the relationship between two workers\u27 body dimensions who are assigned in pouring molten metal on the assumption that a mismatch in heights contributes to worker\u27s occupational injury. Results of the analysis showed statistically significant differences occur in age, stature, shoulder height, tibial height and knuckle height of the two workers. Redesigning of pouring ladle is the recommendation of the proponent to overcome these differences. Further testing followed to verify and note any improvements. Solicitation of worker\u27s feedback through interview was done. The redesigned pouring ladle has proven to reduce muscular strain since the workers attained greater control in handling the ladle. A survey was also conducted to determine the effect of the weight of pouring ladle on workers\u27 efficiency and comfort. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was performed to test the significance of the differences between the workers\u27 efficiency and comfort to the weights of the pouring ladle. The results obtained showed that the pouring ladle weighing more than 55 kgs. when filled provides discomfort to workers, thereby promoting inefficiencies. Limiting the pouring ladle to 55 kgs. will be more advantageous.An experimental study was also conducted to determine the effect of the distance of moulds from the furnace on the quality of metal castings. The study showed that as distance increases, the quantity of defective metal castings also increases. And as distance traveled by workers in pouring molten metal from furnace to moulds increases, the risk of injury is also high. A such, it would be advantageous to limit the distance of furnace to moulds