Title: Organizational Ergonomics: A Stimulus for Improved Employee Performance in Manufacturing Firms in Enugu Metropolis
Authors: Linda Lucy Ilodilibe, Nweke Augustine Simeon, Gilbert Ogechukwu Nworie
Volume: 8
Issue: 11
Pages: 111-120
Publication Date: 2024/11/28
Abstract:
Work environments are frequently characterized by outdated equipment, inadequate seating, poor lighting, and insufficient attention to the physical demands on employees, leading many to work in uncomfortable positions for long hours with minimal breaks while using tools that lack ergonomic design. In views of this problem, this study assessed whether organizational ergonomics can serve as a stimulus for an improved employee performance in manufacturing firms in Enugu metropolis. To achieve this purpose, survey research design was used on a population of 421 employees working in ten selected manufacturing firms located in Enugu Metropolis. Stratified sampling approach was used to obtain a sample size of 193 respondents to whom 4-point Liker-scale questionnaire was administered for the purpose of collecting primary data for the study. The research question was analysed using frequency distribution. Based on the tenets of Human Factors Engineering Theory, Kendall's tau_b correctional test was used to validate the research hypothesis which indicated that organizational ergonomics significantly serves as a strong stimulus for an improved employee performance in manufacturing firms in Enugu metropolis (tua_b = .732; p<.01). In conclusion, leveraging ergonomics as a strategic tool to enhance employee engagement and productivity ultimately contributes to improved organizational outcomes, as employees often seek workplaces that prioritize their well-being. Consequent upon this, we recommend that organizational leaders and human resource managers actively assess and implement ergonomic improvements in their work environments by fostering an ergonomic culture with conducive workstation designs, suitable tools, and supportive workplace environments in order to enhance employee performance.