Reliability of Hand Anthropometric Measurements in Venezuelan Workers: A Pilot Study

Introduction: Hand anthropometry is fundamental for ergonomic design and prevention of occupational injuries. In Venezuela, there is a significant gap in specific anthropometric data for the working population, which hinders the adequate design of tools and work equipment. Method: A quantitative, non-experimental, field pilot study with a descriptive-cross-sectional scope was conducted on 60 workers at a food company in Cagua, Venezuela. Intra- and inter-rater reliability of hand anthropometric measurements (length, width, and circumference) was evaluated using the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). The sample size for a larger study was calculated according to the Colombian Technical Standard NTC 5654. Results: Intra-rater reliability showed excellent ICC values for circumference (0.997), width (0.980), and length (0.873). Inter-rater reliability was also excellent: length (0.997), width (0.990), and circumference (0.982). The sample size calculation determined that 184 participants are required for hand length, being the most efficient metric for larger studies. Conclusions: The measurement methods employed demonstrated high reliability and reproducibility. Hand length emerged as the most suitable variable for anthropometric studies in the Venezuelan working population, requiring a sample of 184 participants stratified by age and gender to ensure population representativeness.