Impact of Workplace Ergonomics on Physiological Stress in Manufacturing Workers

Thesis Abstract

The prevalence of physiological stress among manufacturing workers has emerged as a critical occupational health concern, compounded by ergonomic inadequacies in workplace design that potentially exacerbate stress-related health outcomes and diminish productivity. This study aims to investigate the impact of workplace ergonomics on physiological stress levels among manufacturing workers, with specific objectives to (1) evaluate the current ergonomic conditions in selected manufacturing plants; (2) measure physiological stress indicators among workers; (3) examine the relationship between ergonomic factors and physiological stress; and (4) propose ergonomic interventions to mitigate stress. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional research design, the study sampled 250 manufacturing workers from three medium-sized factories using stratified random sampling to ensure representativeness across departments. Data collection involved structured ergonomic assessment checklists, physiological stress measurements (including salivary cortisol levels and heart rate variability), and self-reported stress questionnaires, administered over a two-month period. Validity and reliability of the instruments were established through expert review and test-retest procedures, respectively. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics to depict ergonomic conditions and stress levels; Pearson correlation to examine relationships; and multiple regression analysis to identify significant ergonomic predictors of physiological stress, with the theoretical framework grounded on the Biopsychosocial Stress Model and the Ergonomic Fit Theory. It is anticipated that findings will reveal significant associations between ergonomic deficiencies—such as suboptimal workstation height, awkward postures, and repetitive motions—and elevated physiological stress markers among workers. These results are expected to contribute novel insights into the mechanistic pathways linking workplace ergonomics and biological stress responses within manufacturing settings, an area currently underrepresented in occupational health literature. The study aims to bridge the gap between ergonomic intervention research and biological stress assessment, offering empirically grounded evidence to inform ergonomic policy and workplace design improvements. The main conclusion will underscore the importance of ergonomic redesign as a strategic approach to reducing physiological stress, thereby improving worker health and productivity. Recommendations will include implementing ergonomic training programs, redesigning workstations to optimize movement and posture, and integrating routine physiological monitoring into workplace health management. Additionally, the research will highlight the need for continuous ergonomic assessment and employee feedback mechanisms to sustain health-promoting workplace environments. This study advances knowledge by combining biomechanical ergonomic evaluations with biological stress markers to provide a comprehensive understanding of occupational stress, and it offers practical frameworks for industrial stakeholders to foster healthier and more productive manufacturing workplaces.