The physical strain of dairy farming

Abstract

The aim of this study was to estimate the physical stress and strain in dairy farming, using ambulatory heart rate and oxygen consumption measurements. The rate of perceived exertion was estimated with Borg scale. The maximal oxygen consumption was measured in the laboratory. The study group consisted of eight male and 15 female farmers. The handling of feed and manure was the heaviest work task in dairy farming. The aerobic capacity ([Vdot]O₂ max) of female farmers (26 ± 3 ml/min/kg) was below average, and their work required over 50% of [Vdot]0₂ max during most of the tasks. The [Vdot]0₂ max of male fanners (32±10 ml/min/kg) was moderate, and most work tasks required below 50% of [Vdot]0₂ max. The mean heart rate in dairy farming tasks was 99 beats min^-1 in men and 116 beats min^-1 in women. However, according to the rate of perceived exertion, the men experienced the same work tasks as subjectively more heavy than did the women. The physical strain of female farmers in dairy farming seems to be too high because of heavy work tasks and relatively low [Vdot]0₂ max of women. Special attention should be paid to these factors in the occupational health services for farmers.