Semi-mechanized wood harvesting: what are the ergonomic gaps in these workstations?

Abstract

Semi-mechanized wood harvesting is feasible for ventures with limited financial resources; however, it entails significant occupational risks for operators. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct an ergonomic analysis of semi-mechanized wood harvesting, correlating variables in an integrated manner with their intervention requirements. Hence, physical workload, hand and arm vibration, thermal comfort, noise, and illuminance were assessed during semi-mechanized cutting and manual wood extraction. Subsequently, a color-coded system was established to indicate the need for ergonomic intervention. Operators had an average age of 30 years and a Body Mass Index of 24.9. The manual extraction phase exhibited higher values for cardiovascular workload (> 40%), Maximum Heart Rate (194 bpm), and Average Partial Exposure (12.5 m. s-1) compared to the cutting phase. The average thermal comfort index recorded at the start of the work shift was 18.9 °C. Noise exposure levels during cutting surpassed regulated limits. Illuminance levels throughout the work shift averaged 22,701 lux. Consequently, it is concluded that both semi-mechanized harvesting and manual extraction require urgent ergonomic intervention in at least one variable. The use of personal protective equipment, implementation of controlled breaks, and replacement of machinery with more modern equipment are recommended.