Riesgos disergonómicos y dolencias musculoesqueléticas en trabajadores de una empresa de alimentos. Edo. Aragua-Venezuela 2022.

Abstract

Introduction: Human beings are immersed in an environment that constantly puts their safety and health at risk. Therefore, the importance of protecting workers against factors that cause accidents and/or occupational diseases at the workplace is increasing. Methodology: A quantitative, field-based, descriptive approach was used, with a census sampling of 24 workers. Their sociodemographic characteristics were determined through surveys; observation provided visualization of the work process; the level of dysergonomic risk was quantified using the REBA and OCRA Checklist methods; and complaints were assessed using the Nordic questionnaire. Results: Seventy-five percent of the workers were male, with a mean age of 45.4 ± 9.5 years and a mean seniority of 15.1 ± 7.5 years. The work process identified two positions (container feeding and stowage) with 4-hour work cycles due to increased demand from awkward postures, sustained standing, and repetitive workloads. The REBA (Reinforced Work Area Assessment) indicated action level 3 (high risk) for container preparation and feeding, requiring immediate intervention. The OCRA (Occupational Risk Assessment) Checklist showed unacceptable risk levels (High Level) for stowage and container feeding. Forty-six percent reported pain in the lower back, lasting 1–24 hours, which, according to their perception, was attributed to the repetitive nature of the task. Conclusions: Dysergonomic risks due to awkward postures and repetitive movements are high in high-demand jobs, and lower back pain is identified in these jobs. Rotating jobs every two hours is recommended.