Occupational DiseasesARPE;MMHNCT06993298
ARPE Training for Manual Handling Workers: A Quasi-Experimental Study on Ergonomic Knowledge and Practice
A study testing Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE) and Conventional Ergonomics Training in people with Occupational Diseases and Work Related Upper Limb Disorder, run by Universiti Teknologi Mara.
Trial summary
The goal of this study is to evaluate whether an Augmented Reality-based ergonomic training module (ARPE) can improve ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation practices among adult manual material handling (MMH) workers in warehouses. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 20 to 60 yearsHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Occupational Diseases, Work Related Upper Limb Disorder
- What is being tested?
- Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE) and Conventional Ergonomics Training
- Type of treatment
- Medical device, Lifestyle or therapy programme
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 78 participants
- Where
- No sites listed yet
- Study dates
- 1 Sep 2025to 1 Oct 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 20 to 60 years
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Malaysian citizen
- Age 18 years and above
- Currently employed as a manual material handling (MMH) worker in a warehouse
- Regularly performs MMH tasks (e.g., lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or restraining objects weighing 14 kg or more)
- Works a minimum of 8 hours per day in a role involving MMH
- Owns a mobile phone capable of downloading and running the MAKAR XR app
Who cannot join
- Pregnant
- Currently an intern or temporary worker
- Has undergone ergonomic training within the past six months
About this study
Official title: Development and Effectiveness of the Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) Training Module for Manual Material Handling Workers: A Quasi-Experimental Study Protocol
The goal of this study is to evaluate whether an Augmented Reality-based ergonomic training module (ARPE) can improve ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation practices among adult manual material handling (MMH) workers in warehouses. The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does the ARPE training module improve workers' ergonomic knowledge?
Read more
Does it enhance their ability to prevent and assess risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)?
Researchers will compare an intervention group using the ARPE module with a control group receiving traditional training based on national ergonomic guidelines to see if the AR module leads to better outcomes.
Participants will:
Attend a briefing and use the ARPE training via the MAKAR XR app
Complete self-assessment questionnaires at baseline, week 1, and week 6
Receive reminders and follow-ups through WhatsApp
Read the detailed description
This study is a quasi-experimental trial designed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) training module among manual material handling (MMH) workers in Malaysia. MMH workers face a high risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of heavy objects. Traditional ergonomic training methods-such as lectures and printed materials-have been found to be less engaging and may not lead to effective behavior change.
The ARPE module uses Augmented Reality (AR) technology through the MAKAR XR mobile app to provide immersive and interactive ergonomic training. The goal is to enhance the understanding of proper manual handling techniques, promote self-assessment, and encourage preventive behaviors in real work settings.
Two groups will be included in the study:
Intervention group: receives ARPE training using the MAKAR XR app
Control group: receives conventional ergonomic training based on national DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) guidelines
The study includes three phases:
Introduction phase: Participants are briefed on their training, and baseline data is collected on ergonomic knowledge and practices.
Intervention phase: Participants interact with their respective training (ARPE or conventional), with engagement monitored and supported via WhatsApp.
Post-intervention phase (6 weeks later): Participants complete follow-up questionnaires to assess retention of ergonomic knowledge and application of safe practices.
The main outcomes are improvement in ergonomic knowledge (primary), and changes in self-prevention and self-evaluation behaviors (secondary). Usability of the ARPE module will also be assessed using a validated mobile health app questionnaire (M-MAUQ).
This study aims to demonstrate that AR-based training can be a more effective and engaging alternative to traditional methods, potentially reducing the risk of WMSDs and improving workplace safety.
- Being tested
- Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE), Conventional Ergonomics Training
- Keywords
- Augmented Reality (AR), Ergonomic, Work Related Musculo skeletal Disorder (WMSD)
- Medical subject headings
- Occupational Diseases
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE)Device
Participants in this arm will receive an interactive training module using Augmented Reality (AR) delivered via the MAKAR XR app. The module aims to enhance ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation related to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)
Conventional Ergonomics TrainingBehavioural
Participants in this arm will receive conventional ergonomic training based on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) guidelines for manual material handling (MMH) workers. The training includes lectures, printed materials, and standard instructional content focused on safe lifting techniques, proper posture, risk factor identification, and strategies to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This training is delivered in a one-time session with follow-up reminders, simulating current standard practices in workplace safety education.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Ergonomics Training | Active comparator | Participants in this arm will undergo conventional ergonomic training based on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) guidelines. The training will be delivered through traditional methods such as lectures, printed materials, and visual presentations. The content includes safe manual handling techniques, identification of work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) risk factors, and best practices for injury prevention. Receives: Behavioral: Conventional Ergonomics Training |
| Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training | Experimental | Participants in this arm will receive an immersive Augmented Reality-based ergonomics training module known as ARPE, delivered through the MAKAR XR mobile application. The training content is aligned with ergonomic guidelines for manual material handling (MMH) tasks and includes 3D interactive simulations, visual demonstrations of proper lifting techniques, and safety practices. The training aims to improve ergonomic knowledge, encourage self-prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), and enhance self-evaluation of posture and manual handling behaviors. The module is self-paced and supported by weekly WhatsApp check-ins throughout the 6-week intervention period. Receives: Device: Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE) |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Improvement in Ergonomic Knowledge
Description:
Participants' ergonomic knowledge will be assessed using the Ergonomic Knowledge Domain Questionnaire, a validated 8-item multiple-choice instrument measuring understanding of ergonomic principles, awareness of risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), and correct manual handling practices.
Scale Title: Ergonomic Knowledge Domain Questionnaire
Score Range: 0 to 8
Scoring: 1 point per correct answer
Interpretation:
0-3 = Low knowledge
4-5 = Moderate knowledge
6-8 = High knowledge
Outcome Direction: Higher scores reflect improved ergonomic knowledge and better learning outcomes following the ARPE training module.
The effectiveness of the intervention will be determined by comparing the scores across three time points between the intervention and control groups.
Measured: Baseline (T0) - Prior to training Week 1 Post-Training (T1) Week 6 Follow-Up (T6)
Secondary outcomes (1)
Improvement in Self-Prevention Practices Toward Ergonomic Risks
This outcome will be measured using the Self-Prevention Domain Questionnaire, a validated 6-item self-assessment instrument using a 7-point Likert scale to evaluate participants' self-reported preventive behaviors and attitudes toward managing ergonomic risks at the workplace.
Scale Title: Self-Prevention Domain Questionnaire
Score Range: 6 to 42
Scoring: Each item is rated from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 7 (Strongly Agree)
Interpretation:
6-21 = Poor self-prevention
22-31 = Moderate self-prevention
32-42 = Good self-prevention
Outcome Direction: Higher scores indicate greater awareness and better self-preventive ergonomic practices.
Scores will be compared between the intervention and control groups at three assessment points to determine changes in prevention practices after training.
Measured: Baseline (T0) - Prior to training Week 1 Post-Training (T1) Week 6 Follow-Up (T6)
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted28 May 2025
- Study start1 Sep 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completion1 Feb 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Publications (1)Papers the sponsor has linked to this study.
- Other trials for Occupational DiseasesStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Non-randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- This study uses a quasi-experimental, two-arm, parallel-group design to evaluate the effectiveness of an Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) training module among manual material handling (MMH) workers. Participants are non-randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives ARPE training via the MAKAR XR app, or the control group, which receives conventional ergonomic training based on national DOSH guidelines. The study spans six weeks with assessments at baseline, week 1, and week 6. The primary outcome is ergonomic knowledge, while secondary outcomes include self-prevention and self-evaluation behaviors. Usability of the AR module will also be assessed. This model emphasizes practical workplace relevance and digital health application in occupational training.
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 78 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Universiti Teknologi Mara
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Fatimah Zahra Binti Norman, Universiti Teknologi Mara
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06993298
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- REC/11/2024 [PG/MR/550]
- Acronym
- ARPE;MMH
- Status last verified
- May 2025
- First submitted
- 14 May 2025
- Last updated
- 28 May 2025
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Publications
Norman FZ, Yasin SM, Mohamad M, Azzani M. Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) Training for Manual Material Handling Workers: A Protocol for a Quasi-experimental Study. Cureus. 2025 Sep 14;17(9):e92302. doi: 10.7759/cureus.92302. eCollection 2025 Sep.
PubMed 41111705
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 28 May 2025. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Development and Effectiveness of the Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) Training Module for Manual Material Handling Workers: A Quasi-Experimental Study Protocol
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT06993298
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- ARPE;MMH / REC/11/2024 [PG/MR/550]
- Keywords
- Augmented Reality (AR), Ergonomic, Work Related Musculo skeletal Disorder (WMSD)
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 78 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Universiti Teknologi MaraUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Sep 2025 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 1 Feb 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 1 Oct 2026 (estimated)
- First posted
- 28 May 2025 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The goal of this study is to evaluate whether an Augmented Reality-based ergonomic training module (ARPE) can improve ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation practices among adult manual material handling (MMH) workers in warehouses. The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does the ARPE training module improve workers' ergonomic knowledge?
Does it enhance their ability to prevent and assess risks of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs)?
Researchers will compare an intervention group using the ARPE module with a control group receiving traditional training based on national ergonomic guidelines to see if the AR module leads to better outcomes.
Participants will:
Attend a briefing and use the ARPE training via the MAKAR XR app
Complete self-assessment questionnaires at baseline, week 1, and week 6
Receive reminders and follow-ups through WhatsApp
Detailed description
This study is a quasi-experimental trial designed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of the Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) training module among manual material handling (MMH) workers in Malaysia. MMH workers face a high risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) due to frequent lifting, carrying, and handling of heavy objects. Traditional ergonomic training methods-such as lectures and printed materials-have been found to be less engaging and may not lead to effective behavior change.
The ARPE module uses Augmented Reality (AR) technology through the MAKAR XR mobile app to provide immersive and interactive ergonomic training. The goal is to enhance the understanding of proper manual handling techniques, promote self-assessment, and encourage preventive behaviors in real work settings.
Two groups will be included in the study:
Intervention group: receives ARPE training using the MAKAR XR app
Control group: receives conventional ergonomic training based on national DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) guidelines
The study includes three phases:
Introduction phase: Participants are briefed on their training, and baseline data is collected on ergonomic knowledge and practices.
Intervention phase: Participants interact with their respective training (ARPE or conventional), with engagement monitored and supported via WhatsApp.
Post-intervention phase (6 weeks later): Participants complete follow-up questionnaires to assess retention of ergonomic knowledge and application of safe practices.
The main outcomes are improvement in ergonomic knowledge (primary), and changes in self-prevention and self-evaluation behaviors (secondary). Usability of the ARPE module will also be assessed using a validated mobile health app questionnaire (M-MAUQ).
This study aims to demonstrate that AR-based training can be a more effective and engaging alternative to traditional methods, potentially reducing the risk of WMSDs and improving workplace safety.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Prevention
- Allocation
- Non-randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- This study uses a quasi-experimental, two-arm, parallel-group design to evaluate the effectiveness of an Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) training module among manual material handling (MMH) workers. Participants are non-randomly assigned to either the intervention group, which receives ARPE training via the MAKAR XR app, or the control group, which receives conventional ergonomic training based on national DOSH guidelines. The study spans six weeks with assessments at baseline, week 1, and week 6. The primary outcome is ergonomic knowledge, while secondary outcomes include self-prevention and self-evaluation behaviors. Usability of the AR module will also be assessed. This model emphasizes practical workplace relevance and digital health application in occupational training.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional Ergonomics Training | Active comparator | Behavioral: Conventional Ergonomics TrainingParticipants in this arm will undergo conventional ergonomic training based on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) guidelines. The training will be delivered through traditional methods such as lectures, printed materials, and visual presentations. The content includes safe manual handling techniques, identification of work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) risk factors, and best practices for injury prevention. |
| Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training | Experimental | Device: Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE)Participants in this arm will receive an immersive Augmented Reality-based ergonomics training module known as ARPE, delivered through the MAKAR XR mobile application. The training content is aligned with ergonomic guidelines for manual material handling (MMH) tasks and includes 3D interactive simulations, visual demonstrations of proper lifting techniques, and safety practices. The training aims to improve ergonomic knowledge, encourage self-prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), and enhance self-evaluation of posture and manual handling behaviors. The module is self-paced and supported by weekly WhatsApp check-ins throughout the 6-week intervention period. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 20 to 60 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Malaysian citizen
- Age 18 years and above
- Currently employed as a manual material handling (MMH) worker in a warehouse
- Regularly performs MMH tasks (e.g., lifting, lowering, pushing, pulling, carrying, holding, or restraining objects weighing 14 kg or more)
- Works a minimum of 8 hours per day in a role involving MMH
Key exclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Pregnant
- Currently an intern or temporary worker
- Has undergone ergonomic training within the past six months
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE)Participants in this arm will receive an interactive training module using Augmented Reality (AR) delivered via the MAKAR XR app. The module aims to enhance ergonomic knowledge, self-prevention, and self-evaluation related to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) | Device | Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training |
| Conventional Ergonomics TrainingParticipants in this arm will receive conventional ergonomic training based on the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) guidelines for manual material handling (MMH) workers. The training includes lectures, printed materials, and standard instructional content focused on safe lifting techniques, proper posture, risk factor identification, and strategies to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This training is delivered in a one-time session with follow-up reminders, simulating current standard practices in workplace safety education. | Behavioural | Conventional Ergonomics Training |
Primary outcome
Improvement in Ergonomic Knowledge
Time frame: Baseline (T0) - Prior to training Week 1 Post-Training (T1) Week 6 Follow-Up (T6)
Description: Participants' ergonomic knowledge will be assessed using the Ergonomic Knowledge Domain Questionnaire, a validated 8-item multiple-choice instrument measuring understanding of ergonomic principles, awareness of risk factors for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs), and correct manual handling practices. Scale Title: Ergonomic Knowledge Domain Questionnaire Score Range: 0 to 8 Scoring: 1 point per correct answer Interpretation: 0-3 = Low knowledge 4-5 = Moderate knowledge 6-8 = High knowledge Outcome Direction: Higher scores reflect improved ergonomic knowledge and better learning outcomes following the ARPE training module. The effectiveness of the intervention will be determined by comparing the scores across three time points between the intervention and control groups.
1 secondary outcome
Improvement in Self-Prevention Practices Toward Ergonomic Risks
Time frame: Baseline (T0) - Prior to training Week 1 Post-Training (T1) Week 6 Follow-Up (T6)
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 28 May 2025.
- Derived from this study: PubMed 41111705Norman FZ, Yasin SM, Mohamad M, Azzani M. Augmented Reality Physical Ergonomics (ARPE) Training for Manual Material Handling Workers: A Protocol for a Quasi-experimental Study. Cureus. 2025 Sep 14;17(9):e92302. doi: 10.7759/cureus.92302. eCollection 2025 Sep.
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Augmented Reality Ergonomics Training (ARPE) and Conventional Ergonomics Training in people with Occupational Diseases and Work Related Upper Limb Disorder, run by Universiti Teknologi Mara.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 3 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 28 May 2025. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Improvement in Ergonomic Knowledge (time frame: Baseline (T0) - Prior to training Week 1 Post-Training (T1) Week 6 Follow-Up (T6)). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
On the ClinicalTrials.gov record for NCT06993298, which also lists 1 linked publication.
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 28 May 2025; AzTrials last refreshed its copy on 31 Oct 2026.