Original scientific paper
Forest Workers and Steep Terrain Winching: the Impact of Environmental and Anthropometric Parameters on Performance
Giovanna Ottaviani Aalmo
; Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research Pb 115, NO-1431 Ås NORWAY
Natascia Magagnotti
; CNR Timber and Tree Institute Via Madonna del Piano, Pal. F 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze ITALY
Raffaele Spinelli
; CNR Timber and Tree Institute Via Madonna del Piano, Pal. F 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze ITALY
Abstract
Winching is common in small-scale forest operations, especially on steep slopes, where tractors cannot reach the logs inside the forest. In this case, logs are dragged to the roadside with tractor-mounted winches, for later collection by transportation units. Winching is a heavy task, posing a high physiological stress on winching crew members. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between experienced workload, work conditions and operator fitness. The study confirmed the assumption that fit, young operators experience a lower workload than older ones. Workload depends on winching direction, and it is higher when winching downhill than when winching uphill. Results confirmed that gravity is the main factor, and it has a stronger effect than task type and tool weight. Walking uphill with no tools is heavier than walking downhill and carrying a steel cable. As a consequence, tool weight reduction can only palliate the problem, without solving it. Winching crews should be composed of fit, young workers. When the task is assigned to older workers, it is necessary to allow longer rest breaks, accepting a lower productivity.
Keywords
steep terrain; winching; workload; heart rate
Hrčak ID:
153475
URI
Publication date:
1.2.2016.
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