ORIGINAL PAPER
Assessing ergonomic risks: REBA analysis of food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia
 
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1
Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia (Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences)
 
2
MAHSA University, Selangor, Malaysia (Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing)
 
3
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn, Johor, Malaysia (Faculty of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering)
 
 
Online publication date: 2025-04-14
 
 
Corresponding author
Aziah Daud   

Universiti Sains Malaysia, Department of Community Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Jalan Raja Perempuan Zainab 2, 16150 Kota Bharu, Malaysia
 
 
 
HIGHLIGHTS
  • A medium ergonomic risk among food delivery riders based on the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) analysis was identified.
  • Scooter users showed lower REBA scores compared to sedan motorcycle users.
  • High-powered motorcycle users exhibited a high ergonomic risk (REBA score: 9).
  • Different motorcycle types significantly influence riders’ ergonomic risk levels.
  • Targeted ergonomic interventions are recommended to reduce risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.
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ABSTRACT
Objectives: Rapid urbanization has intensified the demand for human labor, including in sectors like food delivery, where workers are prone to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study aimed to assess the ergonomic risks among food delivery riders in Eastern Peninsular Malaysia using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) method. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 191 food delivery riders in September 2021 – March 2022. The REBA method, a paper-and-pen observational tool, was utilized to evaluate the postural risks associated with WMSDs. Data on demographics and working conditions were collected through interviews and observations. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize REBA scores, with mean scores compared between motorcycle types using t-tests. Results: The mean final REBA score was 5, indicating a medium risk for developing WMSDs. Scores of 4, 5, and 6 were observed in 36.1%, 31.4%, and 31.9% of riders, respectively. Riders using scooters generally had lower REBA scores than those using sedan motorcycles. Conclusions: The study highlighted a medium risk of WMSDs among food delivery riders. Ergonomic interventions, particularly in motorcycle design, are necessary to mitigate these risks and improve occupational safety and health. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2025;38(2)
eISSN:1896-494X
ISSN:1232-1087
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