An ergonomics solution in the footwear industry: the footwear unmold

Abstract

The aim of this work was to analyze the influence of the implementation of ergonomic measures in the work conditions of the cemented assembly section in the unmold activity in a shoe industry located in the state of Paraíba. To do so, a comparative analysis related to the ergonomic improvements previously implanted in the workstations of the company was carried out, looking to verify whether the application of those measures had influenced or not the work conditions in the assembly section mentioned. Historically, that type of industry doesn't have a culture of Prevention of Accidents and Ergonomics in its practices. Consequently, the elevation of the number of acquired diseases related to the work in that section was observed. As methodological procedures, interviews were accomplished with workers of the Assembly Section of the company, aiming to make the measurement of the work conditions, starting from the application of the methodology Situation, Problem and Improvement (SPI) and of the method Occupational Repetitive Action (OCRA), Gravity, Urgency and Tendency (GUT) and the diagram of painful areas of Corlett et Manenica (1980). As a result, improvements of the work conditions were evidenced with the elimination of most non-ergonomic conditions in the activity, besides making possible larger motivation and better life quality to the employees of the studied section.