ERGONOMIC EVALUATION OF CHAIRS MADE OF WOOD AND ITS DERIVATIVES

This study aimed to carry out an ergonomic assessment of chairs and wooden products manufactured in the furniture cluster of Carmo do Cajuru, MG, and improve the ergonomic quality of furniture, involving aspects of anthropometric adaptation, comfort and safety. Data were collected from chairs manufactured by industries associated with the Union of Furniture Industries and Wooden Artifacts located in Carmo do Cajuru in the State of Minas Gerais - SINDIMOV, MG. Compliance criteria were defined according to the anthropometric principles, aspects of ergonomics and safety for the user. Measurements were compared with anthropometric data and recommendations in the literature. The major problem identified in the chairs were related to seat dimensions. Seat height of all chairs were above the literature recommendations. The back of the chairs showed no problems related width, however, adjustment of slope angles are required. Another problem was the high incidence of pointy corners and sharp edges that can cause injuries to users.