New technologies and workers' health: mechanization of sugar cane harvesting

Rosemeire Aparecida Scopinho,Carlos Eduardo De Freitas Vian,Farid Eid,Paulo Roberto Correia Da Silva

doi:10.1590/s0102-311x1999000100015

Abstract

In the context of reorganization of production in the sugar and alcohol industry, mechanization of sugar cane harvesting has been justified as a protective measure for the environment and workers. This article focuses on the consequences of organization of work in mechanization of sugar cane harvesting with regard to the harvester operators' health. Based on data gathered through interviews and direct observation at the workplace, changes implemented in the technological base and division of labor and organization were analyzed, identifying the work load inherent to the process and how it affects workers' health. While harvesters help decrease the physical, chemical, and mechanical work load, they increase the physiological and psychological work load. There is evidence of significant change in the pattern of work-related accidents, entailing a decrease in their frequency and increase in severity. The pattern of illness among harvester operators is similar to that of manual sugar cane cutters, with a highlight on psychosomatic illness related to the organization of work in shifts and increased tempo due to use of machinery.

Highlights

Resumo No contexto da reestruturação produtiva sucroalcooleira, a mecanização do corte da cana-de-açúcar tem sido justificada como uma medida de proteção ao meio ambiente e aos trabalhadores
In the context of reorganization of production in the sugar and alcohol industry, mechanization of sugar cane harvesting has been justified as a protective measure for the environment and workers
This article focuses on the consequences of organization of work in mechanization of sugar cane harvesting with regard to the harvester operators’ health

Summary

Introduction

Resumo No contexto da reestruturação produtiva sucroalcooleira, a mecanização do corte da cana-de-açúcar tem sido justificada como uma medida de proteção ao meio ambiente e aos trabalhadores. Este artigo analisa as conseqüências da organização do trabalho no corte mecanizado da cana para a saúde dos operadores de colhedeiras.

Results

Conclusion