Ergonomic Bag for the Collection of Oranges: Restructuring and Testing the Prototype Using Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA) to Improve the Harvesting Process

摘要

The objective of this study is, through the application of Ergonomic Work Analysis (EWA), to restructure and test the prototype of an Ergonomic Bag for Collection of Oranges (SECOLA), that will lead to a reduction of physical effort in the work process, supporting both the worker and the work requirements. With the accomplishment of the tests, it can be stated that the prototype developed and tested during this study is very close to what is considered and believed ideal for the accomplishment of citrus harvesting. The material chosen to make the prototype was well accepted by the workers, its structure was considered good, but it is necessary to improve some aspects, aiming at functionality and productivity in the use of the proposed prototype. Moreover, the necessity of knowledge, information and training of the workers has been identified, so they will accept certain alterations in their working routines, which are relating to health care and prevention, since these being preserved, productivity levels tend to increase.