The Impact of Physical and Ergonomic Hazards on Poultry Abattoir Processing Workers: A Review

Johannes L. Harmse, Jacobus C. Engelbrecht and Johan L. Bekker
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Johannes L. Harmse: Department of Environmental Health, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
Jacobus C. Engelbrecht: Department of Environmental Health, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
Johan L. Bekker: Department of Environmental Health, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria 0001, South Africa

IJERPH, 2016, vol. 13, issue 2, 1-24

Abstract: The poultry abattoir industry continues to grow and contribute significantly to the gross domestic product in many countries. The industry expects working shifts of eight to eleven hours, during which workers are exposed to occupational hazards which include physical hazards ranging from noise, vibration, exposure to cold and ergonomic stress from manual, repetitive tasks that require force. A PubMed, Medline and Science Direct online database search, using specific keywords was conducted and the results confirmed that physical and ergonomic hazards impact on abattoir processing workers health, with harm not only to workers’ health but also as an economic burden due to the loss of their livelihoods and the need for treatment and compensation in the industry. This review endeavours to highlight the contribution poultry processing plays in the development of physical agents and ergonomic stress related occupational diseases in poultry abattoir processing workers. The impact includes noise-induced hearing loss, increased blood pressure, menstrual and work related upper limb disorders. These are summarised as a quick reference guide for poultry abattoir owners, abattoir workers, poultry associations, occupational hygienists and medical practitioners to assist in the safer management of occupational health in poultry abattoirs.

Keywords: poultry abattoir processing; ergonomic; work related upper limb disorders; noise; cold; poultry processing health effects; occupational exposure (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (4)

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