MIDDLE-AGED QUARRY WORKERS' PERSPECTIVES ON SUCCESSFUL AGEING AT WORK. A QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Workers in quarries are exposed to extremely physical demanding work that may pose a risk of adverse health consequences, especially at advanced age. Digital technologies can provide support at workplaces to compensate the daily occupational dangers reducing their impact on long term worker health status. The purpose of this study is to identify relevant factors to improve long-term workability of aged quarry workers that can be addressed. Two focus groups were conducted with the participation of mid-aged workers from four different quarries. Up to 20 factors that influence positive and negatively on workability have emerge. These factors were classified in three common themes: work influences on health, job satisfaction and work-life balance. These results help point the way to the development of safety ageing measures and programs specific for quarry workers and miners oriented to avoid injuries, increase safety at work and contribute to successful retirement policies. Keywords: workability; ageing at work; quarry workers; safety and health at work; Industry 4.0.