What is in the shadow of the longshoremen´s work load?

Abstract

The objective of the study is to analyze the different dimensions of the longshoremen´s workload and its influence in the processes of health/disorder.  The study characterizes itself as a transversal, descriptive and exploratory one and was developed between the years of 2010 and 2013 in the city of Paranagua, Parana. The sample was composed by 300 male subjects, union longshoremen belonging to the Labor Management Office (in the original Órgão Gestor de Mão de Obra - OMGO) of the State of Parana. Included in the data collection instruments were: a survey related to the profile of the interviewed professionals, a survey for the low back pain risk evaluation, Nordic survey and field observations. The analysis showed that they are workers with an average of 20 years of work, in an activity marked by family or friendship relationships, in which not only important physical demands are present, but also mental demands are not negligible. There are many health issues like the very high risk of low back pain (74, 7%), and a very frequent feeling of mental and physical tiredness at the end of a workday. Those who feel more tired are also those with more musculoskeletal complaints in various body regions. The data indicate an association between work organization and mental work load.