Analysis of Mead Application

Oct 13, 2025 by thesweetdesigns.com 72 views

Introduction

PT. Perkebunan Nusantara III PKS Rambutan, a leading company in the production of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) and Palm Oil (Kernel) from fresh fruit bunches (FFB), faces significant challenges in increasing ergonomicity at the loading ramp work station. The manual FFB loading process results in operators experiencing complaints related to work posture, including the left upper arm, back, right upper arm, and waist. To address this issue, researchers conducted a study using the Macroergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD) method, which analyzes the work system as a whole, including human, technology, and organizational factors.

Background

The loading ramp work station at PT. Perkebunan Nusantara III PKS Rambutan is a critical area where FFB is loaded into trucks. However, the manual process of loading FFB results in operators experiencing discomfort and potential injuries due to non-ergonomic work postures. The company's goal is to increase ergonomicity at the loading ramp work station to reduce operator complaints and improve overall work efficiency.

Methodology

The study employed the MEAD method, which involves a systematic analysis of the work system to identify areas for improvement. The researchers used the standard Nordic Questionnaire (SNQ) to identify operator complaints related to work posture. Based on the results, the researchers designed ergonomic hooks with specific specifications, including:

Shape of the hook handle: Helping materials: Aluminum
Handling material: Rubber
Shape of the eye hook: Fork
Helping materials: Iron
Additional Function 1: Regulator of the Length of the Hook
Additional Function 2: Helping eyes to take FBS fall

The designed ergonomic hook dimensions are:

Length: 3.98 meters
Holder diameter (DG): 3.97 cm
Finger width (LJ): 9.69 cm

Analysis of Mead Application

The application of the MEAD method in this ergonomic hook design has several advantages:

Systemic: MEAD views the work system as a whole, not just focusing on one aspect. Thus, the resulting solution is more comprehensive and sustainable.
Human-centric: MEAD method places humans as the center of attention in the design of the work system, thus minimizing the risk of injury and increasing operator comfort.
Data-based: SNQ data collected systematically becomes the basis of designing solutions that are right on target.

Positive Impact of Implementation of Ergonomic Hooks

The implementation of ergonomic hooks designed by the MEAD method is expected to have some positive impacts:

Improving occupational health and safety: Reduction of operator complaints and injury potential due to non-ergonomic work posture.
Increasing efficiency: Operators can work more optimally with lighter workloads.
Increasing work motivation: Operators feel more comfortable and safe when working, so that work motivation increases.
Promoting Safety Culture: The application of MEAD and Ergonomic Design shows the company's commitment to occupational health and safety.

Recommendation

In addition to designing ergonomic hooks, further research can be done to:

Developing training programs for operators related to the use of ergonomic hooks and the importance of ergonomics in the workplace.
Perform periodic evaluation of the effectiveness of ergonomic hooks and make adjustments if needed.
Build a monitoring and reporting system to monitor operator work and safety regularly.

Conclusion

By paying attention to the ergonomic aspect in every work process, PT. Nusantara III Plantation PKS Rambutan can create a safer, more comfortable, and productive work environment for its operators. The application of the MEAD method and the design of ergonomic hooks are expected to have a positive impact on occupational health and safety, efficiency, work motivation, and safety culture.

Q: What is Macroergonomic Analysis and Design (MEAD)?

A: MEAD is a method used to analyze and design work systems, focusing on the interactions between humans, technology, and organizational factors. It aims to create a more comprehensive and sustainable solution by considering the entire work system.

Q: Why is ergonomic design important in the workplace?

A: Ergonomic design is crucial in the workplace as it helps to reduce the risk of injury and discomfort, improve work efficiency, and increase operator comfort. By designing workstations and tools to fit the human body, employers can create a safer and more productive work environment.

Q: What are the benefits of using MEAD in ergonomic design?

A: The benefits of using MEAD in ergonomic design include:

Systemic approach: MEAD considers the entire work system, not just one aspect, resulting in a more comprehensive and sustainable solution.
Human-centric: MEAD places humans at the center of attention, minimizing the risk of injury and increasing operator comfort.
Data-based: MEAD uses data collected systematically to design solutions that are right on target.

Q: How does the MEAD method help to improve occupational health and safety?

A: The MEAD method helps to improve occupational health and safety by:

Reducing operator complaints: By designing workstations and tools to fit the human body, MEAD reduces the risk of injury and discomfort.
Increasing efficiency: MEAD helps to improve work efficiency by reducing the workload and increasing operator comfort.
Promoting safety culture: MEAD demonstrates the company's commitment to occupational health and safety, promoting a safety culture within the organization.

Q: What are the key features of the ergonomic hooks designed using MEAD?

A: The key features of the ergonomic hooks designed using MEAD include:

Shape of the hook handle: Helping materials: Aluminum
Handling material: Rubber
Shape of the eye hook: Fork
Helping materials: Iron
Additional Function 1: Regulator of the Length of the Hook
Additional Function 2: Helping eyes to take FBS fall

Q: How can employers implement MEAD in their workplace?

A: Employers can implement MEAD in their workplace by:

Conducting a systematic analysis of the work system: Identify areas for improvement and design solutions that consider the entire work system.
Using data to inform design decisions: Collect data systematically and use it to design solutions that are right on target.
Training employees on ergonomic design: Educate employees on the importance of ergonomic design and how to use ergonomic tools and equipment.

Q: What are the next steps for PT. Perkebunan Nusantara III PKS Rambutan after implementing the ergonomic hooks?

A: The next steps for PT. Perkebunan Nusantara III PKS Rambutan after implementing the ergonomic hooks include:

Developing training programs for operators: Educate employees on the use of ergonomic hooks and the importance of ergonomics in the workplace.
Performing periodic evaluation: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of the ergonomic hooks and make adjustments if needed.
Building a monitoring and reporting system: Establish a system to monitor operator work and safety regularly.