The physical workload involved in parcel handling

Abstract

Sixteen male subjects of varying age and anthropometric characteristics were each asked to perform a series of parcel handling activities at an ‘habitual’ rate for 2 h. Work rate and oxygen consumption were monitored for the various task components which were arranged to enable carry over effects to be investigated. The results indicated that an energy output of between 400 W and 500 W could be considered as being ‘habitual’ for this form of task. However in submaximal tasks of this nature anthropometric factors are likely to play a greater part in determining energy expenditure than age or work rate factors as work rate is largely influenced by the interaction between anthropometric characteristics and workplace design.