Modelo de Evaluación Ergonómica en Talleres de Producción Agroindustrial. Caso Talleres de Lácteos, ESPAM MFL

Abstract

The present study aimed to apply an ergonomic assessment model in agro-industrial production workshops, specifically in the dairy workshops of the Escuela Superior Politécnica Agropecuaria de Manabí “Manuel Félix López” (ESPAM MFL), in order to identify and prioritize ergonomic risks that affect workers’ health and job performance. The study was conducted under a non-experimental, descriptive approach, supported by a literature review and the application of the IPER, RULA, and REBA methodologies, complemented by a structured interview. The results revealed medium and high ergonomic risk levels, mainly associated with prolonged forced postures, repetitive upper-limb movements, and manual handling of heavy loads, particularly during dairy product processing stages. RULA and REBA assessments indicated the need for short-term corrective interventions, while the IPER matrix classified the risks as harmful, justifying their prioritization. Based on the diagnostic findings, an ergonomic improvement plan was proposed following the hierarchy of controls, focusing on workstation redesign and physical workload reduction. It is concluded that the proposed model is applicable for ergonomic risk management in similar agro-industrial environments.