WORKING ENVIRONMENT OF TANKER TRUCK DRIVERS. AN ERGONOMIC AND ERGOMETRIC STUDY

The report describes an ergonomic and ergometric investigation of tanker truck drivers engaged in the distribution of petroleum products. Twenty-two drivers were studied in the laboratory and during work in order to identify and measure high physical loads. Pulse recordings showed that the work is moderately strenuous. Dragging the hose from the tank truck to the filler pipe was most strenuous. There was a significant increase in serum creatine kinase (s-ck) at the end of the week. This might be indicative of heavy muscular strain. Measurements of tractive forces exerted with different hose sizes dragged on grass and asphalt are presented. Improvements aimed at reducing exertion are proposed. (TRRL)