Condição de trabalho e saúde em motoristas no transporte florestal rodoviário

Abstract

There are several studies related to the health of freight transport truck drivers, however, the literature is scarce concerning drivers in road forest transport. The study's general objective was to perform a physical ergonomic analysis of forest transport drivers and investigate the association between body mass index and musculoskeletal discomfort. Specifically, the objectives were: to know the human factors, working conditions, and health and food aspects; to trace the anthropometric profile of forest transport drivers and to suggest adjustments in the workstation and to a dimension of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment); to verify the level of physical activity of the workers, and to verify the association between obesity and the presence of musculoskeletal discomfort. The study was conducted in a forest transport company located in Campos Gerais, Paraná. The population evaluated was composed of drivers in road forest transport, who transported logs to a pulp and paper industry. Initially, was measured anthropometric variables applied questionnaires with information on human factors, working conditions, and daily habits related to health and diet and applied the discomfort questionnaire proposed by Corlett. Among the anthropometric measurements, drivers were divided into three groups according to BMI: adequate, overweight, and obesity. The results obtained verified that most of the drivers were married or had a stable union (74.2%) and had low schooling (incomplete elementary school). The experience time of the drivers was ten years or more (50%), most received training (98.4%), and guidance on function, safety, and ergonomics (99.2%). The drivers make use of IPE (individual protection equipment), such as a helmet with jugular, gaiters, glasses, and the ear protector was the least used.Regarding health aspects, the most cited chronic diseases were hypertension, diabetes, and musculoskeletal pain. The drivers presented low consumption of fruits and vegetables and high carbohydrates and caffeine consumption. Most drivers (55%) had a low level of physical activity, and most reported musculoskeletal discomfort was in the lumbar region. Body mass index showed an association with musculoskeletal discomfort, especially with obesity BMI. The adoption of a quality of life program with psychological counseling, nutritional education, encouragement of physical activity, and work gymnastics directed to drivers' needs can be solutions to improve quality of life and working conditions.