Ergonomic intervention with teachers to improve diaper change procedures in a childhood education facility in São Paulo

Abstract

This article describes an intervention at a childhood education facility, conducted by an Occupational Health nurse and other Occupational Health and Safety professionals. The case study illustrates the importance of ergonomic interventions at the workplace for promoting well-being and improving teachers’ performance as they carry out their daily activities. We used the observation of the work process method to identify ergonomic aspects in the activity of changing diapers of children aged 1 to 3. The occupational health team, as well as the school managers, realized that the work process often led to lower back pain and discomfort and the teachers consequently being removed from activities. An ergonomic analysis was performed in the workplace and, after research and some meetings, a ladder with casters was introduced, assisting the professionals in conducting the children to the diaper changer, thus avoiding distension in the lumbar region. This action resulted in a reduction in absenteeism due to illness.