Contribution Ergonomic Assessment of Musculoskeletal Hazards in Waste Bag Removal from Containers

Abstract

Waste collection is carried out manually in a large number of countries, especially developing countries. However, due to the risks inherent in lifting loads and the characteristics of the collection activity, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) recur among waste collectors. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the MSDs inherent to the activity of lifting waste bags from waste containers. The sample consisted of 3 male workers, representing anthropometric percentiles 5th, 50th, and 95th. To enable the research were used: sociodemographic questionnaire, bioimpedance, motion capture and surface EMG. The 5th percentile, showing a falling trend in MF values for the Upper Left Trapezium, 50th percentile showed no falling trend in FM values and the 95th showed a falling trend in MF values for the Upper Left Trapezium. Regarding the movement analysis, the activity was performed on anterior flexion and trunk rotation. While there was shoulder flexion above 90°. The methods and tools used were adequate and complementary to each other, so it can be concluded that the waste bags removal from containers offers musculoskeletal risks related to the lower back and shoulders. These workers are affected by musculoskeletal fatigue and may suffer MSDs, resulting in the worker removal and increased expenses for rehabilitation and reintroduction in the activity.