Ergonomic Evaluation of Physical Workload Among Steelworkers

Abstract

Our study aims, to assess the physical workload among steel workers through heart rate recordings and to develop a preventive strategy. Methods: A Cross-sectional study conducted within 65 steelworkers. The physical load was evaluated by the estimation of occupational metabolism based on recording the heart rate during a representative period of the working day as recommended by ISO 8996 (level 3). Results: The study population was exclusively male. The mean age was 37.8 years ± 9.5 years The equivalent metabolism was estimated at 282.4 ± W 80,6 W. Interpretation of the workload has concluded that this charge was “Acceptable” for the entire population study except 3 workers for which the workload was considered as “Inadmissible”. Conclusion: Urgent preventive actions have been proposed, associated to general recommendations to increase automation of production processes, improvement of work conditions, and tasks organization and strengthening the medical supervision of these workers.