Body anthropometry on a sample of jordanian males

In Jordanian industry, work stations and supporting equipment are used widely for various types of operations. However, most of these stations and tools are imported from countries which do not consider the anthropometric and biomechanical characteristics of Jordanians or Middle Eastern peoples. Since anthropometric data for Jordanians are lacking, one cannot determine how suitable these foreign designed workstations are for Jordanians, except to say that anecdotal evidence indicates that improvements may be necessary for comfort, health and safety. This research study is aimed at initiating the development of an anthropometric data base for Jordanian males. Twenty five body dimensions, based on international standards, were collected from a sample of 70 Jordanian males; such data have never been measured in Jordan. The mean, standard deviation, and 1st, 5th, 25th, 75th and 95th percentile values were calculated. The anthropometric measurements has been presented and compared with those from similar developing countries including Algerian, Taiwanese and North Eastern Region of India, using data from previous research papers. The Jordanian anthropometric data could be used in the design of work stations, equipment and other devices, as well as work clothes, in order to enhance productivity, comfort and health.