Riscos na apanha de aves com foco na ergonomia

Abstract

The poultry catching activity represents a critical link in the Brazilian poultry production chain; however, it remains largely invisible in occupational safety analyses due to the absence of specific classification in the CNAE (National Classification of Economic Activities) and CBO (Brazilian Classification of Occupations), which hinders epidemiological surveillance and labor condition inspections. This study aimed to conduct a risk analysis focused on ergonomics in poultry catching operations at two companies located in Francisco Beltrão, Paraná, Brazil. Additionally, the study proposed ergonomically suitable methodologies for the activity. The research adopted a quantitative, descriptive, and documentary approach, involving the collection of statistical data on occupational accidents from the Ministry of Social Security and internal data from the companies studied. The methodology included risk analysis of the poultry catching tasks, workers’ perceptions of occupational hazards, characterization of the workers’ socioeconomic profiles based on company-provided data, and proposals for ergonomically appropriate alternatives. The results indicate that workers are exposed to multiple occupational hazards, including chemical agents such as ammonia and respirable dust, infectious biological agents, and ergonomic risks related to prolonged standing and lumbar overload. The analysis of the companies’ Risk Management Programs classified most of these risks as tolerable or moderate. However, the socioeconomic profiling of the workforce revealed shortcomings in risk perception and in the overall working conditions. As alternatives, the study proposed the implementation of new training programs, the use of ergonomic back support belts, and mechanization technologies for poultry catching, specifically the Peer System and Apollo Generation 2, which may significantly reduce workers' exposure to the identified risks. It is concluded that although the companies examined operate in compliance with current labor legislation, there remains a pressing need to implement technologies that enhance safety and ergonomics in task execution.