Mechanization of Coconut Deshelling: Ergonomic and Productivity Impacts in an Integrated Coconut Industry

Abstract The coconut industry makes an essential contribution to the agricultural sector by improving community welfare. Beyond augmenting the value-added aspects of coconuts, the industry also generates labor-intensive employment opportunities, such as the process of coconut deshelling. This study aims to evaluate the impact of mechanization on work posture and worker productivity during the coconut deshelling processing in an integrated coconut agroindustry. Ergonomic risks were quantitatively assessed utilizing the Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) methodology, while productivity was determined by the quantity of coconut shells processed per hour. The study involved 25 workers performing manual deshelling in a seated position and 25 using a mechanized coconut deshelling machine in a standing position. Although both positions are used in the same process, these differences in posture have a significant impact on work performance, worker health, and process efficiency, making it crucial to compare the two. The results showed that workers using the manual method had higher REBA scores (mean 8.68), indicating a high-risk ergonomic level, compared with those using the mechanized method (mean 4.48), which fell into the moderate-risk category. Additionally, the mechanized group demonstrated significantly higher productivity (mean 58.1 coconuts/hour) than the manual (mean 36.2 coconuts/hour). Nonetheless, the effective implementation of mechanization necessitates appropriate machine design and comprehensive worker training. Future inquiries could explore the enduring effects of the current machine on worker health and endeavor to develop machinery that optimizes operational performance.