Examining Ergonometric Risk Factors Among Fashion Designers And Their Effects On Productivity In The Clothing Industry In The Kumasi Metropolis

Abstract

This study aims to investigate ergonomic risk factors among fashion designers in the Kumasi Metropolis. Employing a quantitative research design, the research gathered data from a diverse sample of three hundred and fifty (350) participants, but three hundred and eleven (311) copies of the questionnaire were retrieved for the study, encompassing fashion designers with varying degrees of experience and expertise. Utilizing structured questionnaires, the findings provided strong evidence of the detrimental effects of ergonomic risk factors on productivity in the fashion design industry. Availability of necessary ergonomic tools and equipment was found to be lacking, suggesting the need for industry-wide provision of these resources. Further, the study emphasized the positive influence of ergonomic improvements on productivity and job satisfaction. The correlation between job demands, job resources, and the prevalence of ergonometric risk factors was significant, implying strategic management of these factors could be crucial in risk mitigation. It is therefore recommended that both industry associations and individual fashion enterprises invest in acquiring and distributing these essential tools, such as hand trucks, anti-fatigue mats, ergonomic sewing machines, adjustable chairs with back support, and ergonomic foot pedals.