The environment and work places where furniture manufacturing activities are performed constitute a source of risk to the health, safety and well-being of the workers .The physical and chemical environmental risks as well as those related to the adoption of inadequate posture are the most common risks faced in these environments. In addition, work places, tools,
machinery and equipments used in furniture manufacturing activities are not always adequate to the anthropometric conditions nor are workers sufficiently trained to utilize them correctly. Aiming to improve workers’ health, safety and well being, the
objective of this study was to analyze the ergonomic factors related to furniture manufacturing at Uba-MG furniture industries, by assessing the human factors related to work and working conditions; to evaluate the work environment‘s physical factors, i.e., noise, light and temperature; to make na anthropometric assessment and a biochemical evaluation of the activities. Data on human factors and working conditions were obtained by means of questionnaires (interviews) and in situ observations. Anthropometric data were obtained by measuring variables of the human body in a standing position. Biochemical evaluation was conducted by dimensional analysis, applying the technique of filming worker’s profile and analysis with the software developed by Michigan University. Noise levels during work were determined by using a noise dosimeter; luminosity levels
were obtained with the help of a digital luximeter; thermal overload was evaluated by determining the Globe Thermometer Humid Bulb Index (GTHBI). The results obtained confirmed that training and workers’ awareness are of fundamental importance to guarantee workers’ health, safety and well-being allowing them to obtain and take a better advantage of high quality products, benefitting both employees and employers. The noise levels were found to be high for most of the activities, surpassing the limits of 84,3 dBA, for a 9-hour work load, the value recommended by the Brazilian legislation for insalubrious activities and operations (Regulating Norm No 15- NR 15 - Annex 1, Ruling 3214 by the Ministry of Labor and Employment). The average sector IBUTG presented values below the maximum limit allowed by NR 15, Annex 3. Luminosity found was insufficient for most of the work places in the finishing sector , with values below the recommended by the Brazilian Norm NBR 5413/92.Based on the anthropometric data obtained, the work places presented, on average, below or above the adequate limits. Biochemical evaluation showed that none of the activities offered risks of compressing the vertebral column L5-S1 disc. As for body articulation lesion risks, the activities related to stapling the superior and inferior parts of wardrobes, as well as door mounting, presented elbow articulation risks. Similar results were found for steel furniture welding, with riskless and safe activities not being possible.
