The use of ergonomic job analysis as a tool for the occupational therapist in the study of the labor activity of hairdressers

This article presents the results of a research that aimed to analyze the labor activity of hairdressers, aswell as to demonstrate the usefulness of Ergonomic Job Analysis (EJA) work-study method as a methodologicalbasis for the occupational therapist to act in different job situations. Through this method, the therapist is ableto diagnose the ergonomic risks of the situation studied and develop a booklet of duties with improvementrecommendations. The research was carried out in a hair salon located in the municipality of Curitiba, State ofParana, from March to October 2010. ‘Hairdressing’ was the occupational category chosen and ‘hair straightening’was the work activity analyzed. It was possible to observe that the activity is performed with the adoption ofinadequate posture, repetitive movements, and lack of pauses to allow the recovery of the musculotendinousand/or osteomuscular structures. The need to intervene in this working environment is noticeable, focusing onits organization. In conclusion, the disorders observed in the work activities developed in the Third Servicesreflect in consequences to the health and welfare of workers.