Enhancing Productivity in Smart Trowel Indoor Court Operations: A Systematic Ergonomic Evaluation through HIRARC, RULA, and CTA Assessments

Abstract

The major cement finishing steps are floating and trowelling. Existing walk-behind power trowels does not meet ergonomics requirements, exposing operators to postural hazards poor transportation and require excessive repetition, which consumes time and money. This research aims to detect postural risks during power trowel transit and trowelling. In addition, this research examines the transportation process to provide power trowel improvements. Finally, propose a better power trowel design. Interviews and observation revealed issues. The study evaluates ergonomics assessments method including Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA), and Hazard Identification Risk Assessment and Risk Control (HIRARC). The results of RULA score dropped from 7 to 3 in comparison to current trowel. By employing HIRARC, 5 risks factors and hazard has been identified in the current power trowel employment process. Enhanced blade configuration, design, and transport attributes alleviate the issues. The assessments indicate a 4° blade angle and 15 mm thickness, including a 2-ton bottle-jack that elevates a smart trowel in two strokes. This study decreased awkward posture, repetitive work, and intense exertion.