Working practices in a perchery system, using the OVAKO Working posture Analysing System (OWAS)

Stockworkers should be able to easily manage alternative systems for commercial egg production. Such production systems can be analysed in terms of human welfare, based on ergonomic criteria. Work-related postures can cause discomfort and strain to workers (Stoffert, 1985). The OVAKO Working posture Analysing System (OWAS) developed in 1974 (Karhu et al, 1977) defines body positions during working practices and scores them according to the strain caused. This technique has so far not been used to assist in the design of working systems for the poultry industry. This pilot study was carried out to determine if such a technique could be easily applied to a perchery system and whether it could lead to an improved design. The stockworker was video recorded performing normal duties within the perchery and the positions of the body were assessed, using the OWAS system. It was found that manual collection of floor eggs and reaching into the middle of the perches from the litter side put the most strain on the stockworker. Modification of the perchery, in light of these results, will establish an improved perchery system for the stockworkers.