This study evaluates the heart rate of healthy non-mechanics handling
predetermined loads, in postures typically used by roadside auto-mechanics
during repair. The heart rate for different age groups and work postures of
roadside auto-mechanics were determined from the assessment of healthy
non-mechanics of the same age limit using a digital premium pressure
monitor. Regressions were then developed to predict the heart rates of the
auto-mechanics. The result indicated that load and posture adopted by
roadside auto-mechanics, accounts for 2.74% and 4.51% of increase in their
heart rate respectively, while age accounts for 65.78%. It further revealed that
heart rate increases with age and load handled, and also showed that heart rate
is highest in bending posture, followed by stooping. In conclusion the
developed regression algorithms were sufficiently adequate in predicting the
heart rate of roadside auto-mechanics and it also indicated that older roadside
auto-mechanics need not engage in arduous tasks
