Ergonomics implementation barriers in Ethiopian garment manufacturing industries.

Abstract

Ergonomic problems have increased at a considerable rate in manufacturing industries. Failure to practice ergonomic principles and workplace design are the main causes. Poor ergonomic awareness and failure to monitor ergonomic practices magnify the problem in developing countries. Different barriers to ergonomics implementation cause ignorance of ergonomics/human factors and affect employee safety and productivity. This study intends to evaluate ergonomic implementation barriers in Ethiopian apparel industries. Five hundred apparel industries from industry parks and other apparel industries in and around the capital were selected through judgmental sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM) using AMOS version 21. Ergonomic awareness, lack of resources, management commitment and unsupportive organizational culture hinder ergonomic implementations. This study provides insight for policymakers and manufacturing industries to make decisions about ergonomics implementation.