Corrective measures to reduce physical work strain of dairy farming

Abstract

The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of selected dairy activities on performers in terms of various ergonomic parameters so as to provide suitable remedies to reduce work stress. Descriptive as well as experimental was chosen for the study. Findings shows that physiological workload of women in terms of heart rate was highest during milking i.e. 124.60 beats/min. and energy expenditure was found highest i.e. 14.37 kj/min during collection of animal dung. The risk factor observed were squatting posture for the longer period, deviation of angle of backbone from normal and wrist and shoulder muscle pain. Continous forceful movement of both arms causes mechanical stress on anatomical structure while performing milking operation. Suggestive tools/techniques to reduce work stress included revolving stool for milking, long handle broom and dung collector for cleaning cattle shed, naveen sickle for fodder cutting and trolley for disposing off the dung.