Physical load analysis in hotel cleaning work
¹Institute for Occupational Safety and Environmental Health, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia; *Correspondence: henrijs.kalkis@rsu.lv 2Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Latvia, Aspazijas blvd. 5LV-1050, Riga, Latvia 3Ergonomics research Centre, University of Latvia, K. Valdemara 48, LV-1013 Riga, Latvia
Abstract:
Hotel cleaning work is one of the physically demanding professions. Employees in hotel cleaning processes are subjected to compulsory work postures, frequent body, arm, and leg movements, awkward turns due to areas of restricted spaces or inappropriate work equipment. Such workload can result in health problems and deteriorate health. Therefore, the aim of the research was to determine the physical load for hotel office cleaning staff. 23 hotel cleaners, all female, participated in the investigation participated. For the physical load analysis, a questionnaire, the Key Indicator Method, the quick exposure check method, and heart rate monitoring were chosen. It was proved in this research that the work of hotel office cleaners corresponds to the category of light and moderate workload despite the fact that hotel office cleaners themselves consider the work process to be very intensive and physically demanding. Further studies are necessary in order to clarify the fatigue level and other social risks that can influence the physical workload of employees.
Key words:
ergonomics, hotel cleaners, shift work., workload