Rest Break Frequency and Duration: Self-Reported Preference of Brazilian Poultry Slaughterhouse Workers

Abstract

The work pace in poultry slaughterhouses is high and the risk of developing upper limb work-related musculoskeletal disorders is moderate to high. Thus, through risk management and the use of technical, organizational, and administrative means, the employer should ensure the well-being of workers, as well as safe and healthy working environments and conditions. The aim of this study was to identify the self-reported preference of poultry slaughterhouse workers regarding rest break frequency and duration, and to verify the reasons for their choice. The participants in the study included 311 workers from four poultry slaughterhouses. The workers were asked what rest break schemes they preferred: 6x10 min, 3x20 min, 4x15 min or another schedule, as well as the reasons for their selection. According to the workers' opinions, 3x20 min was the best break schedule (90.7%), mainly because it allowed time to rest (64.5%), as they had more time to carry out their activities calmly. Unanimously, these workers responded that a 10-min break is very short, which only allows one to reach the rest area or the bathroom and return, no time to rest. Only 8.7% of workers wanted to have a higher rest break frequency (6 or 4 times per day) to leave the sector more, go to the bathroom often, have shorter work intervals, in addition to warming up the body and resting more. This paper provides guidelines for slaughterhouse managers to determine the best rest break schedules for their workers to promote health and safety.