Ergonomics Assessment of Pedal Operated Maize Dehuskar-Sheller for Male Agricultural Workers

Abstract

The pedal-operated maize dehuskar-sheller was ergonomically evaluated with ten male agricultural operators to assess the physiological costs of operation. The Heart Rate, Oxygen Consumption Rate and energy expenditure rate were used for assessment of physiological cost for the operation of the pedal operated maize dehuskar sheller. The Heart Rate and Oxygen Consumption Rate were measured with Computerized Ambulatory Metabolic Measurement System K4b2. The energy expenditure rate was calculated based on the Oxygen Consumption Rate during the operation. The mean working heart rate, mean working Oxygen Consumption Rate and mean working energy expenditure rate of all subjects during the operation of maize dehusker sheller were found to be 139 (± 22.01) beats/min, 1.40 (± 0.20) l/min and 6.83 (±1.07) kcal/min, respectively. Based on energy expenditure rate, the operation of pedal operated maize dehusker sheller was found under ‘Heavy’ work category.