IE25402 Work Design and Ergonomics – Semester IV – IEM – R-2025

Subject Code & Name: IE25402 – Work Design and Ergonomics

Regulation: R-2025

Semester: IV (Fourth Semester)

Branch: B.E. Industrial Engineering and Management (IEM)

Credits / L-T-P: 4 Credits | L-T-P: 3-0-2

Course Objectives

• To develop knowledge and skills in work system design, method study, work measurement techniques, and ergonomic principles for improving productivity and designing safe, efficient, and human-centered industrial workplaces considering anthropometric, physiological, biomechanical, and postural factors.

Full Unit-wise Syllabus

Unit I – Introduction to Work Design

Components (Man, Machine, Material, Method) – Productivity concepts and measurement – Types of production systems – Human role in work systems – Introduction to work study – Recording techniques.

Practical: 1. Application of outline process chart for method study 2. Application of Flow process chart for method study

Unit II – Method Study

Method study procedure – Select, Record, Examine, Develop, Define, Install, Maintain – Flow diagram – Two-handed process chart – Principles of motion economy – Micromotion study – SIMO chart.

Practical: 1. Application of Two handed process chart for method study 2. Application of Video-based micromotion study

Unit III – Work Measurement

Work measurement techniques – Time study – Performance rating – Allowances – Standard time calculation – Work sampling – Predetermined motion time systems (PMTS) – Introduction to MTM and MOST.

Practical: 1. Determine the standard time using Peg board experiment 2. Determine the performance rating of the operator and rating capacity of the analyst using card dealing 3. Determine the standard time using MTM practice

Unit IV – Ergonomic Workplace Design

Ergonomics – Principles and applications – Anthropometric measurements – Static and dynamic anthropometry – Design of standing and seated workstations – Design of displays and controls – VDT workstation design – Environmental factors (lighting, noise, temperature).

Practical: 1. Measurement of illumination and noise levels in different environment 2. Development of anthropometric data for male and female and design the desk for students.

Unit V – Physiological & Ergonomic Assessment

Physiological aspects of work – Energy expenditure – Fatigue and stress – Work-rest cycles – Manual material handling – NIOSH lifting equation – Ergonomic assessment tools: RULA, REBA, OWAS – Occupational safety and health

Practical: 1. Evaluation of Work Posture analysis using RULA 2. Evaluation of Work Posture analysis REBA

Tasks: T1. A factory shows low productivity and worker fatigue – analyze work methods and suggest improvements using method study. T2. Workers experience musculoskeletal disorders due to poor posture – evaluate using RULA/REBA and redesign the workstation. T3. An industry reports inefficient work cycles and time delays – perform time study and optimize standard time. T4. Employees face discomfort due to poor lighting and noise levels – assess environment and recommend ergonomic improvements.

Course Outcomes (COs)

• CO1: Explain the concepts of work system design, method study, work measurement, ergonomics, anthropometry, and ergonomic assessment tools.
• CO2: Apply method study techniques, time study procedures, anthropometric data, and ergonomic principles to analyze and improve real-world work systems.
• CO3: Analyze work systems using process charts, work measurement data, posture analysis tools (RULA/REBA), and environmental factors to identify inefficiencies and risks.
• CO4: Evaluate alternative work methods and workplace designs based on productivity, safety, ergonomics, and human performance criteria.

Assessment Pattern (Quick Note)

• Weightage: Continuous Assessment 50% | End Semester Examinations 50%
• Internal methodology: Written Test (40%), Practical (30%), Activity (30%). Practical: Lab Experiments (50%), Tasks (50%) (Each student must complete a minimum of two tasks). Activity: Review of GATE/ESE Questions (10%), Mini Project/ Quiz/ Assignment Programs/ Flipped Class /Seminar Presentation (20%)

Source: Official Anna University – B.E. Industrial Engineering and Management R-2025 Syllabus
Last Updated: October 2026