This article throws light upon the seven main factors which are responsible for fatigue. The factors are: 1. Long Duration of Work 2. Absence of Rest Periods 3. Design of Machinery and Improper Working Methods 4. Improper Illumination 5. Absence of Seat or Uncomfortable Seat 6. Excessive Noise 7. Monotony and Boredom.
Factor # 1. Long Duration of Work:
So many studies and experiments have shown that average output per hour varies with length of working day. Long duration of work is responsible for over excretion of the worker. This excretion causes the fatigue. A number of the experiments which have been conducted by varying the working hours shows that hourly output reaches a maximum value at about seven hours a day or about 40 hours a week.
Factor # 2. Absence of Rest Periods:
Production and fatigue are influenced considerably by the opportunity provided to the worker for rest during the course of work. Working continuously for a long duration causes fatigue and continue working in the exhausted conditions increases fatigue even more fast and rapidly.
So many experiments have shown that when rest pauses are increased production and productivity also increases, upto 25%. But the duration and timing of these rest periods should be designed in such a way that they eliminate the fatigue but at the same time keep the workers in warming condition. It has been observed that 5 to 6 minutes rest pause after 80 minutes work is most suitable and appropriate.
Factor # 3. Design of Machinery and Improper Working Methods:
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If the design of machinery is not good then it will involve unnecessary movements of body-organs causing fatigue. Similarly improper design of spare-pans, tools and equipment also causes the fatigue.
So while designing machinery tools and equipment, human aspect should also be considered. Even a well-designed machine can cause fatigue to worker, if he is using improper working methods. The working methods should be selected after conducting time study and method study.
Factor # 4. Improper Illumination:
Insufficient lightening or illumination causes heavy strain on eyes of workers and thus resulting unnecessary fatigue. It has been found by experiments that illumination of 215 lumens per m2 is most suitable. Proper illumination can reduce the fatigue significantly.
Factor # 5. Absence of Seat or Uncomfortable Seat:
Working in a standing position consumes more energy so physical strain on the body part arises more hence physical fatigue happens. Similarly uncomfortable seat posture is the reason of fatigue. So for reducing such fatigue proper economically designed seat should be provided to the workers.
Factor # 6. Excessive Noise:
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Excessive noise also causes mental fatigue. There are several sources of noise in the industry like noise due to machines or working methods causes discomfort and strain which ultimately results in loss of efficiency.
If noise cannot be reduced proper safety measures such as noise absorption pads, courtons and ear-plugs etc. should be provided. This excessive noise can cause the severe ear’s diseases and mental strain in the worker so it should be properly studied and efforts should be made to reduce it.
Factor # 7. Monotony and Boredom:
Due to repetition of work, monotony and boredom arises. As repetitive work destroy human values as pride in workmanship and individually. Monotony is described as a desire to have a change due to repetitive work, and is state of mind caused by performing such tasks, while boredom is a mental fatigue due to routine tasks.