Ergonomics improvement in a harsh environment using an audio feedback system

The study aimed to improve ergonomics, i.e. to increase productivity, quality, and work satisfaction of operators working in a harsh environment (i.e. freezer storage facilities) through the use of an audio feedback system. The operators’ job was to select ice-cream products from a distribution warehouse to fulfill customer orders. A field experiment was carried out to compare the conventional method (the use of paper pick list) and the new method (the use of an audio pick list system). The audio system included audio feedback which enabled the operator to verify the correct storage location before selecting product from its location. Results showed that the use of the audio system was more effective as productivity of picking task increased by 43%, quality improved through reduction of more than two-thirds picking errors, and work satisfaction increased as hand motions used in the paper pick list system with gloved hands were eliminated. The impact of this study suggests that harsh environments with similar work flows can be aided with an audio feedback system, weighing the costs and benefits of the system from the perspective of ergonomics, quality, and productivity.