Desarrollo de un protocolo de medición del VO2-máx para estimar la carga de trabajo de acuerdo con la norma NTE-INEN-ISO-8996 en el LAMUTA

Abstract

The problem lies in the absence of a standardized protocol to measure VO2-max in LAMUTA, a work environment that involves intense physical activities. This makes it difficult to accurately assess the workload, which can compromise people's safety and performance. To address this problem, a protocol adapted to the specific conditions of LAMUTA was developed, an exhaustive analysis of the NTE-INEN-ISO-8996 standard was carried out, the requirements are established for the determination of energy metabolism and workload in physical activities. The specific parameters and measurement procedures recommended by the standard were studied, and a VO2-max measurement protocol adapted to the characteristics and requirements of the LAMUTA was developed. This included selecting the appropriate methods and equipment, preparing the participants, and conducting controlled stress tests. Data was collected from different individuals participating in LAMUTA, using the VO2-max measurement protocol developed. These data were statistically analyzed to determine the relationship between VO2-max and the workload in LAMUTA, as established by the standard, taking into account the height above sea level as a fundamental data for the development of the protocol. The final result was a useful tool to estimate the workload and to know the performance in the context of this physical activity. In addition, this protocol can serve as a reference for future research related to the evaluation of physical capacity in similar work environments.