Research of Working Postures in the Technological Sewing Process Using the REBA Method

The characteristics of the work in the technological sewing process depend on the type and character of the workpiece, the type of the sewing machine used to perform the technological operation, as well as on the training and skills of the worker. In the technological sewing process, the work is performed in a sitting position at the sewing machine, whereby the worker performs hand and/or machine-hand technological suboperations. During the performing of technological operations, the worker uses her hands and torso to handle the workpiece, and the feet to operate the sewing machine pedal at short intervals with continuous repetition throughout the work shift, subjecting the worker to stress. The paper analyses the working position at nine workplaces in the technological sewing process using the REBA method (Rapid Entire Body Assessment). The analysis of the results showed that there is workload (medium or high risk) at all workplaces that requires workplace adaptation in the form of workplace redesign. The redesign of workplaces involves adapting the dimensions of the workplace to the worker’s height and determining a more favourable working method that achieves a lower workload.