Estudio antropométrico en párvulos atendidos por el sistema educativo público chileno para el diseño de mobiliario

Abstract

To update the design of furniture used by Chilean preschool children in the public education system since 1970, a Ergonomic study is carried out in order to establish criteria and dimensions to propose a standard for the design of new furniture. This paper presents the results of an anthropometric survey conducted on 2338 children from 3 months to 6 years of age. in preschools of the Junta Nacional de Jardines Infantiles (JUNJI) in Regions I, IX, X, XII and the Metropolitan region. While a study of the variables of height and weight recorded in the Information Management System of the Institution for children of classic urban preschools showed no significant differences between geographical areas, the regions were selected considering intercultural diversity by direct ancestors of foreign origin and / or indigenous peoples in case the proportionality of the segments manifested differences, even if height and weight were similar. Anthropometric parameters were measured 19 for the development of preschool furniture ergonomics standard to which a variable to guide the use of a wide work surface was added. Considering the results of the sample considered, we can state that changes are necessary in the dimensions of the furniture in use. We found a significant discrepancy between the anthropometric dimensions of children and the existing furniture. Anthropometric tables are proposed for children from 3 to 72 months of age, which would indicate that the furniture in use is not the right size to ensure comfort and convenience.