Ergonomic Risk Factors and Their Effects on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) among Karo’s Uis Weavers

Background: The implementation of improper ergonomic will lead to health problems like injuries and
musculoskeletal disorders. This study aims to recognize the musculoskeletal symptoms and determine the
ergonomic risk level at traditional craftsmen of Karo in Samura village, Kabanjahe District, Karo Regency.
Method: This research was a descriptive study with a cross-sectional design. As the sample, it was collected, 14
Karonese traditional cloth craftsmen. Data collected used the Nordic body map questionnaire dan Rapid Upper
Lower Assessment (RULA).
Result: The result found that the risk of ergonomic need to apply the changing of posture. Trough the analysis of
ergonomics risk at the weaving stage of Karo traditional cloth, the following data were found that the craftsmen
must investigate and apply changes in the work position, the craftsmen need to conduct further changes in work
position immediately. The highest musculoskeletal complaints felt were in the buttocks, other in the left and right
calves and shoulder, then in the back, waist, upper neck, lower neck, and buttocks.
Conclusion: It concluded that the weaving process still posed ergonomic risks for the craftsmen with
musculoskeletal subjective complaints. Efforts to improve the present situation are the doing relaxation in short
break time and help by poster or promotion education to reminding the craftsman while they work.