title: Ergonomics in practice: physical workload and heat stress in Thailand.
abstract: This study consists of assessments of the thermal environment and physiological strain in tasks associated with airport, construction, and metal jobs. The number of male and female participants was 108. Environmental heat stress was evaluated with the WBGT index. Physiological strain was evaluated by the relative cardiovascular load (%CVL) based on the measurements of heart rate. Also the increase of body temperature, weight loss, and perceived discomfort were determinated. At work sites the assessments lasted for 2 to 4 hrs for each participant. The mean physiological strain exceeded the level of 30%CVL. Severe peaks (over 60% CVL) were observed in specific tasks being in agreement with perceived discomfort ratings. The increase of body temperature and weight loss in most cases remained within acceptable limits. For the most strenuous tasks, various ergonomic improvements were developed in consultation with workers and managers.
authors.affiliation: School of Science, Rangsit University, Pathumtani, Thailand. pongjan@rangsit.rsu.ac.th
authors.forename: Pongjan
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Yoopat
authors.forename: Pornkamon
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Toicharoen
authors.forename: Thirayudh
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Glinsukon
authors.forename: Kamiel
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Vanwonterghem
authors.forename: Veikko
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Louhevaara
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006804:Ergonomics; D005260:Female; D018882:Heat Stress Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D016272:Occupational Health; D010807:Physical Endurance; D005082:Physical Exertion; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D012494:Sampling Studies; D013785:Thailand / Q000453:epidemiology; D016526:Workload; D017132:Workplace