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Related Experiment Videos

Energy expenditure cutting supercane.

G B Spurr, M Barac-nieto, M G Maksud

    Journal of Applied Physiology
    |December 1, 1975
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Colombian sugarcane cutters expend significant energy during work, operating at 35% of their maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max). Despite lower dietary intake than expenditure, taller, heavier workers show higher productivity and efficiency, especially in the afternoon.

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    Area of Science:

    • Occupational Physiology
    • Environmental Ergonomics
    • Agricultural Science

    Background:

    • Sugarcane harvesting is labor-intensive, demanding high physical exertion from workers.
    • Understanding the physiological strain and energy expenditure is crucial for worker health and productivity in this sector.
    • Previous research has not fully detailed the metabolic demands and efficiency of Colombian sugarcane cutters.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To measure the physiological responses (VO2, VE, fH) and energy expenditure of Colombian sugarcane cutters during field work.
    • To assess productivity, sweat rates, and work efficiency in relation to physical capacity and time of day.
    • To compare field work intensity with laboratory-assessed maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max).

    Main Methods:

    • Measurements of oxygen consumption (VO2), ventilation (VE), and heart rate (fH) were taken in 61 sugarcane cutters during AM and PM work shifts and a laboratory VO2max test.

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  • Productivity and sweat rates were recorded in the field.
  • Dietary intake and daily energy expenditure were estimated.

    • Main Results:

    • Workplace VO2 averaged 1.5 l/min, VE 48 l/min, and fH 135 beats/min, with no significant AM/PM differences.
    • Workers sustained approximately 35% of VO2max during the 8-hour workday, a lower intensity than the 57% VO2max during laboratory tests.
    • Higher sweat rates were observed in the PM (5 kg/8 h) compared to AM, and work efficiency was 9% higher in the PM. Taller, heavier individuals were more productive and had lower heart rates at a given VO2.

    Conclusions:

    • Colombian sugarcane cutters operate at a moderate intensity (35% VO2max) during their workday, with significant energy expenditure (7.4 kcal/min).
    • Despite a caloric deficit, workers exhibit higher efficiency in the afternoon, suggesting potential acclimatization or circadian influences.
    • Physical characteristics like height and weight are associated with higher productivity and better physiological economy in this demanding occupation.