Propuesta de mejora ergonómica para el personal administrativo de una consultora ambiental en Latacunga, a partir del análisis de riesgos mediante los métodos rula y rosa

Abstract

The study is framed within the proposal of an ergonomic improvement for the administrative staff of an environmental consulting company located in the city of Latacunga, considering that work activities are mainly performed in a seated position, with continuous use of computer equipment and office furniture that does not always fit the anthropometric characteristics of workers. In this context, the general objective is defined as proposing an ergonomic improvement based on the evaluation of postural risks through the application of the RULA (Rapid Upper Limb Assessment) and ROSA (Rapid Office Strain Assessment) methods. The research is conducted under a descriptive, quantitative, and field-based approach, using direct observation of workstations, the application of ergonomic questionnaires, and the evaluation of office furniture. The results of the Nordic Questionnaire identify a high prevalence of musculoskeletal discomfort in the dorsal or lumbar region, elbows/forearms, and wrists/hands, with an incidence of 100%, as well as discomfort in the cervical region in 66.67% of the staff, mainly associated with sustained postures and repetitive movements. Additionally, the Body Mass Index (BMI) analysis determines that 60% of the workers are overweight, a condition that increases biomechanical load and the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders. Regarding postural assessment, the RULA method shows medium and high risk levels, indicating the need to implement task modifications and redesign certain workstations. Furthermore, the application of the ROSA method establishes a final score of 7 for all evaluated workstations, reflecting deficient ergonomic conditions that require priority intervention, particularly due to deficiencies in chair design, keyboard and mouse use, and equipment layout.