ABSTRACT:
Background/Objectives: The objective of this paper was to present the results of a study aimed at improving assistive equipment applying ergonomics and occupational therapy, as well as an exercise program at farms in Korea. Methods/Statistical analysis: The Korean Rural Development Administration's Pilot Assistive Equipment Project for Agricultural Work is expected to reduce the injury and illness potential for farm workers. Thus, this study is intended to ergonomically evaluate assistive equipment and provide exercises to prevent musculoskeletal disorders to improve the physical functioning of farm workers. Findings: The farmers’ ratings of perceived fatigue were improved by 94.6% and their risk of the occurrence of musculoskeletal diseases was decreased by 53%. The 21 participants in the musculoskeletal disease prevention exercise program showed statistically significant improvements in their physical competence such as lower-extremity muscular endurance, balance ability, and flexibility (p<0.05). Improvements/Applications: This study confirmed the effects of “The Pilot Assistive Equipment Project for Agricultural Work” conducted in South Korea’s rural areas and an exercise program. Future studies are required to examine their effects on the participants’ quality of life.