Anthropometric measurement among sewing machine operators of garment workers in Bangladesh

Abstract

Abstract Background: The term “anthropometry” refers to many types of measurements which completely describe the human form. It is the science of measurement of the human body that helps to explain the complexities of the human form and how it interferes with the environment. For designing any product, designers have to rely on scientific anthropometric data which can be used to design spaces that fit the largest number of people. Otherwise the output may turn out to be non-ergonomically designed product. This can contribute to biomechanical stresses and increase the risk of cumulative trauma and carpal tunnel syndrome for workers. So, for the designing and implementing of safe tools, it is essential to use anthropometric data. Aims and objectives of the study: The study aims was to measure the anthropometry of sewing machine operators of garments workers in Bangladesh. The three objectives were, to measure and summarize about 26 anthropometric body dimensions of sewing machine operators; to compare the dimensions of male from the female operators; and to determine the association between demographic factors and anthropometric body dimensions. Methodology: A cross sectional study of quantitative design was selected as the research design to fulfill the research aim and objectives. The study was carried out from the garment named “Blue Cap Need Fashion Undergarment Limited” which is situated at Baipaill of Savar thana. 137 sewing machine operators were selected randomly to carry out the research. Result and discussion: 26 dimensions were measured and summarized by analyzing the data. T-test results show significant differences in all dimensions (P=.001; P<.05) except in two dimensions (sitting leg length, abdominal depth) between male and female sewing operators and the mean average male body dimensions were higher than the female body dimensions. Paired sample t-test results show that the association between demographic factors and anthropometric body dimensions were (P=.001; P<.05). Conclusion: Anthropometry plays an important role for ergonomics intervention. Understanding anthropometry is essential to the application of ergonomics. Anthropometry provides the parameters of human size and shape that allow designers to fulfill the needs of both comfort and function.