Airport check-in counter work, an occupation largely performed by women, has been heretofore unstudied from an OSH perspective. Check-in workers face numerous obvious as well as less apparent hazards. High risk of musculoskeletal injury is due to frequent lifting/handling of baggage and prolonged standing while operating a computer. Other hazards include interacting with customers and associated violence, work scheduling, environmental conditions, and uneven workload distribution. The problems encountered by this occupational group are typical of many other occupations with similar hidden health and safety hazards. Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the most common women's occupational health problem and constitute the majority of cases of occupational disease today. The present two-country study examined check-in workers and injury/illness data at three types of airports representative of airport designs worldwide. Results indicate that MSDs are common among check-in workers and may lead to temporary or permanent disability. Semi-mechanised baggage systems place check-in workers at risk for musculoskeletal injury comparable to that of industrial workplaces. Fully mechanised handling systems present risk of musculoskeletal discomfort and subsequent injury due to frequent bending and other full body motions while tagging baggage. Fully mechanised handling systems increase risk of MSDs due to prolonged sitting. Adjustable sit/stand workstations increase comfort level and reduce MSD risk. Results indicate air rage and passenger violence is a serious occupational hazard. The current trend to reduce costs using less experienced younger workers diminishes job security while less attention is paid to working conditions. Proposals for collective action will be discussed.
Learning Objectives: N/A
Keywords: Occupational Health, Ergonomics
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.