A method for predicting the Actual Percentage of Dissatisfied (APD) through a simple proposition of thermal comfort zones in a working environment.

BACKGROUND: Over the last few decades, there has been a concern to improve the quality of indoor work environments and increase energy efficiency as people spend much of their time in such settings. OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed a group of women developing sedentary activities to determine the Actual Percentage of Dissatisfied (APD) in the environment, considering that all people who voted any value other than zero on the seven-point scale are deemed dissatisfied. METHODS: After this analysis, using the probit regression model, hot and cold air temperature curves were plotted so as to determine in which situation the number of people dissatisfied with the environment is minimal. RESULTS: The results showed an APD of 52.31%, which is different from the ADP recommended by ISO 7730 (2005) [-0.5 < PMV < + 0.5, PPD < 10% ]. The probit analysis using the cut of 10% as dissatisfied, according to category B of ISO 7730 (2005), showed a comfort temperature of 21.1°C, with a comfort temperature range from 19.61 to22.61°C. CONCLUSIONS: Using the fraction of people dissatisfied with the environment (52.31%) as the cutoff, when the air temperature is equivalent to 20.2°C, the lowest percentage dissatisfied by the cold and heat in the environment occurs simultaneously.

Thermal suitability in industrial environment: a case study in a metallurgical industry.

BACKGROUND: This article presents the results of an investigation into the thermal aspect of workplaces of the metallurgical branch of furniture manufacturing, looking for the number of dissatisfied people in the environment. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the thermal suitability of a metallurgical industrial environment, from four interpretations of vote +1/-1 (slightly warm or slightly cool) on the thermal sensation range, reported by workers. METHODS: The methodological approach consists of quantitative research and a literature review set for this work, composed of spreadsheets and statistical processing of data. Data collection took place through the use of environmental variables measurement equipment and software for statistical assistance. RESULTS: The results indicate an average above 35% of workers dissatisfied with the environment, thus, portraying the lack of suitability. CONCLUSIONS: It was noted, further, that, although average temperatures may be between 21°C to 28°C, workplace improvements can be made, so that the thermal sensations will be satisfactory.

Prevalence of cervicobrachial discomforts in elementary school teachers.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence of cervicobrachial order discomforts in Elementary Public School teachers from 1st to 4th years in the city of Pato Branco - PR. METHODS: Cross-sectional study made with 160 public school teachers from 1st to 4th years in the city of Pato Branco - PR. Data collection was made from a structured questionnaire, and a physical examination with manual palpation and orthopedic tests. RESULTS: The obtained data showed the presence of pain in the trapezius muscle region, on the left side, in 52.5%; and, on the right side, in 50.6%. The analysis also showed that there is a strong relationship between the cervicobrachial problems presented and the labor activity. The final evaluation of this study demonstrates the great need of primary care for these workers, that is, carrying out activities to prevent musculoskeletal diseases developed through work, either to preserve the individuals' physical integrity or the quality of education. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders was high among teachers. There is evidence that the prevalence was connected to job demands.