Ergonomic Implications of Hand Anthropometry and Hand Dominance among Selected Nigerian Male Automotive Workers

This study examined the relationship between hand anthropometry and hand dominance among selected Nigerians in the automotive industry. A cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out on 45 male automotive workers between the ages of 30 – 49, in selected automotive workshops located in the city of Port Harcourt. Exclusion criteria were; history of upper limb injuries or disorders. The following parameters were measured from the upper limb; mid-arm circumference, arm length, forearm length, hand length and hand width. Handgrip strength was measured on right and left hands by using a standard adjustable digital hand grip dynamometer (CAMRY EH101), Zhongshan Camry Electronics Ltd, Shinqi, China. Paired t-test and Pearson's correlation were employed. A probability (p)<0.05 was taken to indicate level of statistical significance. Data analysis was carried out with Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. Dominant handgrip strength (43.18kgf) had a higher average value than non-dominant hand grip strength (36.00kgf). Mid-arm circumference mean was 25.29 ± 3.23cm. Arm and forearm length values were 31.41 ± 1.95cm and 27.51 ± 1.95cm respectively. Hand length and width values were 18.70 ± 1.19cm and 8.71 ± 0.63cm respectively, with hand index (46.60 ± 2.50). Positive correlations were observed between handgrip strength and anthropometric parameters such as arm length (R = 0.34, p = 0.02) and forearm length (R = 0.34, p = 0.02). The application of hand dominance and its anthropometry is essential in the design of occupational equipments especially in the automotive industry for better management and rehabilitation of hand-related injuries.

Key Words: Hand anthropometry, Hand dominance, musculoskeletal injuries, automotive industry