Vol. 10, Special Issue 10 (2021)

Author(s):
Dr. Rashmi Shukla, Dr. AK Singh, Dr. Neelu Vishwarkama and Dr. Pooja Chaturvedi

Abstract:
A study was conducted to assess ergonomically the efficiency of improved post harvest technologies i.e, hanging type cleaner, grader, serrated sickle, wheel hoe, sugarcane stripper. Twenty farmwomen were selected to assess and compare the impact of improved technologies over one. The physiological cost of work and energy expenditure in terms of heart rate cardiac cost, time required, strokes, output were observed to be lower while performing selected activities with the improved technologies compared to the traditional one. The work output was also found higher with all of the improved technologies. The activity was performed with both the traditional method using as well as by using supa, local sickle, khurpee the improved tools. Results of the study showed that the average heart rate and energy expenditure of the women were reduced significantly while performing the activities with the use of improved tools manufactured by CIAE, Bhopal. The use of both the improved tools also leads to reduction in the muscular stresses. Further it was observed that work productivity with the improved tool i.e. serrated sickle, wheel hoe, sugarcane stripper Hanging sieve had significantly improved. It was therefore recommended that women should be motivated to use the improved tools for to minimize their health hazards and safety.