[Physical workload and maximum acceptable work time among supermarket workers in Cali, Colombia].
OBJECTIVE
In order to guarantee safety and health conditions in labor the maximum physical workload that can be supported by a worker during a labor day, without causing fatigue, must be determined. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between the physical load, expressed as relative heart rate (RHR), and the maximum acceptable work time (MAWT) in a Colombian working population (n = 30) from a tropical environment.


METHODS
An observational study was carried out during a typical labor day in the warehouses of a supermarket. Physiological, demographic, health and labor conditions data were collected. The resting heart rate level and the average heart rate during work were measured, and the RHR was estimated according to with the model described by Wu & Wang.


RESULTS
Significant correlations between MAWT and RHR and other physiological variables were observed. 43% of workers didn't fulfill the MAWT. The only single variable that was associated with fulfillment was a body mass index under 18.5 Kg/m2; the other associated variables were some specific conditions of the occupational environment. Results showed a negative correlation between physiological variables and MAWT. The RHR showed its potential usefulness in the enterprise's occupational health practice.


CONCLUSIONS
It is important for companies to diminish extended schedules and implement physical conditioning programs.
Ariza
Luz Elena
LE
Salud Ocupacional, Consultora ARP Liberty. luzariza@telesat.com.co
Idrovo
Alvaro Javier
AJ
D000328:Adult; D002391:Catchment Area, Health; D003105:Colombia; D003132:Commerce / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004651:Employment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D013997:Time Factors; D016526:Workload / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*