Industrial Efficiency as Affected by Food Intake During Mid-morning and Mid-afternoon Rest Periods

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Abstract
The work output of 32 seamstresses in a cotton bag factory was studied for 3 consecutive weeks. A 15 min. rest period was taken in mid-morning and mid-afternoon of each day during which time the subjects were given refreshments which varied widely in composition and caloric content. The data are reported in terms of standard hourly production and show no significant differences in production on the days when different kinds and amts. of food were served during the rest periods. The critical ratio of the largest difference in hourly production was 1.2. Lower critical ratios were obtained for the other differences. Analysis of the data showed that there was a marked difference in the productivity of the various workers which was not related to the length of service. The industrial efficiency of seamstresses was not affected by the kind and amount of food eaten during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon rest periods. On the basis of this observation and other considerations, it is concluded that from the point of view of industrial efficiency workers should be allowed reasonable freedom of choice in what they eat or drink during the rest periods.

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