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VOL. 6, ISSUE 4 (2024)
Ergonomic evaluation of paddy storage activity of Assam
Authors
Mira Kalita, Ruplekha Borah, Nandita Bhattacharyya
Abstract
Paddy storage is one of the most drudgery
prone post harvest activity of Assam, which is predominantly performed by rural
women. Assessment of Physical fitness, rating of perceived exertion and
postural stress which are very important for planning and implementing interventional
ergonomics programs. In developing countries like India, the workers suffer
from assorted health problems due to awkward postures and carrying heavy loads
(Mukhopadhyay, 2008; Sett and Sahu, 2008). Health related problems are resulted
from frequent trunk bending, twisting and repetitive handling of load at a time
and women have a higher prevalence rate than men farmers. An attempt was made
to assess physical fitness, rating of perceived exertion, and postural stress
involved in the activity. Thirty subjects in the age group of 25-35 years who
are having normal, non-pregnant, and non-lactating having normal blood pressure
and without any major illness were selected for the purpose of the study.
Electronic tread mill was used for assessing physical fitness and rating of
perceived exertion was assessed by using a five-point scale develop by Varghese.
(1994) and postural stress in different region was measured with inclinometer.
For postural analysis Ovaku Work Posture Analysis System (OWAS) method was
used. Thirty-three per cent of farm women had ‘very good’ level of physical
fitness. Rating of perceived exertion was 4.22 in 5-point scales indicating
that the exertion perceived by farm women. The angles of average flexion was
highest in upper arm (90.620) and extension was in thoracic and it
was observed to be 115.300 indicating deviation of body parts. The
farm women perform the storage activity under acceptable level of temperature
and humidity except illumination. An ergonomic intervention is necessary for
lowering postural loads and for improving productivity and comfort to the farm
women.
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Pages:75-77
How to cite this article:
Mira Kalita, Ruplekha Borah, Nandita Bhattacharyya "Ergonomic evaluation of paddy storage activity of Assam". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 6, Issue 4, 2024, Pages 75-77
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