Abstract

Author:
Neil Janson Jr., Trishia Flores , Demuel Gempesao

Doi: 10.26480/egnes.01.2025.08.15

This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited

Street food vending is a crucial informal economic sector in many developing countries, providing affordable and diverse food options. This study aims to design an ergonomic street food cart to reduce worker fatigue among street vendors in Don Gil St., Argao. Street vendors often experience discomfort due to poor cart design, leading to musculoskeletal strain and decreased efficiency. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining surveys, direct observations, and ergonomic assessments to analyze vendors’ postures, movements, and work-related discomfort. Findings indicate that existing cart designs contribute to increased fatigue, while the proposed ergonomic cart enhances work posture, reduces strain, and improves overall efficiency. However, the study is limited to a specific location and vendor group, which may affect generalizability. Future research can explore different settings and vendor demographics to refine the design further. The practical implications of this study include providing vendors with a more comfortable and sustainable workspace, reducing health risks, and improving productivity. Socially, improving working conditions for street vendors can lead to better livelihoods, economic sustainability, and enhanced service quality for customers. This study contributes to ergonomic research by addressing a neglected workforce and offering practical solutions to reduce worker fatigue in the informal food sector. By optimizing cart design, this research promotes occupational health and efficiency, benefiting both vendors and consumers.