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Sugar-cane harvesting requires extremely strenuous physical labor in hot climates. Risks to workers include acute traumatic injury, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), heat stress, and dust inhalation. This project represents an international collaboration with the union (SCIV/FENACLE) of 1200 workers who perform all of the tasks involved in cane harvesting. Mixed methods (qualitative/quantitative) are being used to characterize these jobs and risks, with the goal of developing ergonomics and safety controls that are feasible, effective, and acceptable to the workers.
Methods
Job groups were selected for study on the basis of physical and organizational characteristics (exposures). A standardized questionnaire was developed to cover medical and injury history, work history, physical and psychosocial job features, MSDs, and demographics. The questionnaire was pilot-tested in one-on-one interviews and revised as appropriate for administration to union members in face-to-face interviews during the harvest season. Group interviews, followed by videotaping of work in the cane field, provided detailed information about work organization and job content (tasks by season, pay basis, etc.).
Results
Despite being paid on the basis of production, interviewed cane cutters reported regularly being too fatigued to be able to work more than 6 hours per day even when more work was offered. Cutters also described severe left shoulder pain, apparently related to high-force dynamic motions to pull the cane stalk down while cutting with the right hand. Quantitative findings include the distribution by job group of acute injuries and musculoskeletal symptoms affecting the back, shoulder, and other body regions.
Discussion
Cane cutting is a relatively well-paid job compared to others in this region of Ecuador but involves a high risk of potential disability. Automated harvesting equipment is said to damage the cane somewhat and might reduce pay or job security. Efforts continue to find or develop ergonomic and safety improvements that do not adversely affect employment options.