Assessment of Muscular Activities and Working Postures during Common Maintenance Operations on the Ronnie Baugh Tractor (Oggun II)

Authors

• John Geoffrey T. Edrozo, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
• John Kenneth P. Punongbayan, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Laguna, PhilippinesFollow
• Josefa Angelie D. Revilla, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
• Diana Marie R. De Silva, Department of Industrial Engineering, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines

Publication Date

9-1-2026

Abstract

Maintenance activities are among the highest-risk occupations, with hazards arising from machinery repair, task design, and workload demands, underscoring the need for ergonomic interventions to mitigate these risks. The recent introduction of the Ronnie Baugh Tractor (RBT) offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional tractors, but limited knowledge of its design highlights the need for rigorous testing to ensure its safety and effectiveness in farm operations. This study evaluated the muscular and postural workload associated with common maintenance tasks in operating the RBT. Thirteen (13) male participants performed 4 maintenance tasks: engine oil replacement, engine oil filter replacement, pre-start-up checks, and single tire replacement. Electromyographic (EMG) data from 7 muscles (left and right biceps brachii, left and right flexor carpi radialis, right middle deltoid, and left and right upper trapezius) were recorded to assess workload using normalized muscle maximum voluntary contraction (%MVC). Furthermore, the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) score was used to evaluate risks related to posture. The Shapiro–Wilk test confirmed the normality of %MVC data (p < 0.05). Results showed that RBT maintenance tasks generally require minimal to moderate muscle exertion (0% to 40% MVC), with the upper trapezius (UT) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) being the most engaged. Awkward postures and small repetitive motions in tasks with a high REBA score (9.0) may lead to discomfort. In conclusion, while RBT maintenance is acceptable for Filipino male agricultural workers, ergonomic improvements are needed to reduce potential issues in the long run.

Recommended Citation

Edrozo, John Geoffrey T.; Punongbayan, John Kenneth P.; Revilla, Josefa Angelie D.; and De Silva, Diana Marie R. (2026) "Assessment of Muscular Activities and Working Postures during Common Maintenance Operations on the Ronnie Baugh Tractor (Oggun II)," The Philippine Agricultural Scientist: Vol. 109: No. 3, Article 7.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/pas/vol109/iss3/7