Title: Anthropometric data of Omani male population of age group 18-60

Authors: Mohammad Miftaur Rahman Khan Khadem; Dawud Al Farsi; Md. Anisul Islam

Addresses: Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 33, Al-Khod 123, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman ' Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 33, Al-Khod 123, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman ' Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O. Box 33, Al-Khod 123, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Abstract: Anthropometry is essential for ergonomic design. Many countries still lack anthropometric data of their population. The anthropometry of Europeans and Asians differ considerably, but whether there are differences between Omani population and others are not known yet. The objectives of this study were to develop an anthropometric database for Omani male population of age group 18-60 and make a comparison with international populations. Data were collected on 24 independent measurement points from 250 participants in all eight administrative regions of Oman. Anthropometric tables were constructed, and the data were compared with other populations. It was found that the Omani adult male population is shorter by an average of 7 cm compared to many European nations, while marginally shorter by 1 cm compared to their counterparts in Asia and far eastern industrial nations. Hence, irrespective of geographical location, care must always be taken when designing or purchasing products or designing services for Omani population. Although, a small sample was considered in this study, the data would still be valuable for a wide variety of use.

Keywords: anthropometric data; Omani population; product design; international population data; Oman; ergonomic design; ergonomics.

DOI: 10.1504/IJISE.2014.060657

International Journal of Industrial and Systems Engineering, 2014 Vol.16 No.4, pp.523 - 536

Published online: 07 Jun 2014 *

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