Affiliations: Ergonomics Institute, Darmstadt University of Technology, Petersen Strasse 30, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany | [x] Ergonomics Institute, Darmstadt University of Technology, Darmstadt, Germany | [y] Ergonomics Division, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
Abstract: Investigations revealed poor ergonomic design, unsatisfactory logistics and quality problems at assembly and inspection workplaces in a large corporation supplying fenders to the automotive industry. A 138-item job design checklist was used to assess 59 reference workplaces. The design profiles highlighted weak points, especially as regards anthropometry and movement sequences. Ergonomically optimised assembly and inspection workplaces compatible with production flow were designed and introduced. Productivity improvement groups were created and action was taken to encourage good ergonomic behaviour. Job contents were enlarged.
