Evaluation of physical work capacity at Iranian workers

In order to improve the workers' health and prevent early damage to their workforce, it is necessary to make a balance between energy expenditure and physical capacity of workers. Therefore determination of physical capacity of workers is one of the major subjects in ergonomics. It was a descriptive study. 105 male workers in three age groups (20-29, 30- 39 and 40-49 years old) were examined in two methods (sub maximal test and Astrand method) by ergometercycle and telemeter. Aerobic capacity among 20-29, 30-39 and 40-49 age groups were respectively 3.4, 2.7 and 2.3 L.min-1, and their physical work capacity were 5.9, 4.7 and 4kcal.min-1. Aerobic capacity was decreased by smoking while increased by physical practice. Heart rate indication is also a reliable criterion to assess the work load. Results have revealed workers' problem at heavy and extremely heavy works and planning to improve physical work capacity is recommended.

Keywords:

Physical work , Aerobic capacity