Abstract

Objectives. The use of machinery in industrial tasks like load transportation exposes workers to ergonomic risk factors, particularly from non-neutral postures, increasing the chance of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aimed to assess posture-related ergonomic risk among forklift and electric pallet truck operators. Methods. Conducted at a beverage bottling plant in Vi & ntilde;a del Mar, Chile, the cross-sectional study involved 75 operators. Personal and occupational data were gathered through questionnaires, and the rapid entire body assessment (REBA) method was used to evaluate postural risk based on video analysis during machine operation. Results. Findings revealed that 49.3% of workers were at high ergonomic risk and 50.7% at very high risk, with pallet truck operation strongly associated with increased ergonomic risk (odds ratio [OR] 6.7; 95% confidence interval [2.5, 19.5]). The most significant risk factors were operating electric pallet trucks and being aged under 30 years. Pallet truck operation was strongly associated with increased ergonomic risk (crude OR 6.7), especially in workers with less experience. Conclusion. The study concludes that targeted ergonomic interventions, such as redesigning handle height or improving vibration isolation systems in electric pallet trucks, may be essential to protect younger and less experienced workers.