Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA): Evaluating and Optimizing Tofu Makers’ Work Posture

Abstract

Informal businesses such as tofu production contribute immensely to employment in Indonesia. However, workers in this sector commonly develop musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) due to improper working postures and manual labor. This study aims to analyze the working postures of tofu factory workers in Semarang using the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). A descriptive observational approach was employed, involving direct posture assessments of 18 workers at the TL Tofu Factory in Semarang through field observations, interviews, and photo-based posture documentation. The REBA method was employed to evaluate postural risks by assessing various body parts, including the neck, trunk, legs, arms, forearms, and wrists. The data showed that 27.8% of the workers were dealing with heavy loads, while 38.9% often took up awkward postures like prolonged bending and standing. The REBA scores showed that 44.4% were at high risk (score 3), followed by 33.3% at medium risk (action at score 2), 16.7% at very high risk (score 4), for which immediate corrective actions were needed), and 5.6% found to be at low risk (score 1). The most affected body parts were the lower back, shoulders, and legs, mostly due to prolonged forward flexion and repetitive movements. These results underscore the urgent need for ergonomic interventions, including posture training and body stretching, to relieve musculoskeletal strain among tofu factory workers.

Keywords

ergonomics / Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) / working posture / tofu industry

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