Operator Workload in Forest Machines. Studies in Precommercial Thinning-, Thinning- and Final Felling Operations

1990

40 S.

10 Abb., 3 Tab., 42 Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

200034018

Studies made using 'An Ergonomic Checklist for Transport and Materials- handling Machinery' as a study method, show that the modern forest machine provides a good physical work environment. However, a major problem is the fixed body posture. Video technique and the 'Nickometern'-method have been used when studying body postures. 'Nickometern' is an apparatus for measurement of head, neck and trunk postures. The results show that the operator sit in a fixed posture, working with his hands almost continuously and with his head oriented towards in crane tip and the harvesting unit. The results also show that machine design characteristics and work method greatly influence operator head rotation. Studies of mental work load show that the machine operator in thinning operations has to deal with a number of complex decisions. This fact together with high work pace and high demands on precise cran operation, gives the operator a very high mental work load.