Illuminance and whole body vibration evaluation in a company from footwear industry in Portugal

Abstract

The work in storage areas, using mechanical means of handling loads, as well as office work, may lead employee's to multiple risks exposure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess whole body vibration (WBV) exposure of employees at a footwear industry, as well as to determine the illuminance levels in different tasks. The results were compared with the recommended levels in Portuguese legislation, Decree-Law number 46/2006, for WBV, and in ISO 8995-1: 2002, for illuminance. With the obtained results, effects on employees' health, safety, comfort and productivity due to these physical agents were analysed, being suggested improvement recommendations. As a result of the environmental assessment it was found that, for some tasks done at Storage, the mean values of illuminance on the working plan, and respective neighbourhood, are lower than the recommended value established in ISO 8995-1: 2002. Regarding occupational exposure to WBV, it was concluded that employees are not exposed to values above the limit value established in Portuguese legislation.