Evaluation of Some Ergonomic Indicators of Primary wood Transportation Machines in Hyrcanian Forests Logging

Forest machinery is one of the sources of danger in forest logging. Considering the ergonomic factors of these machines plays an important role in reducing occupational injuries. In this study, the ergonomic factors of primary wood transportation machines in Hyrcanian forests including Timberjack 450C and HSM 904 were evaluated. In order to evaluate, some of the indicators of ergonomic and European safety guidelines for forestry machines were used. These indicators include: sound level, cabin access, driver's seat, cabin ventilation, which were selected based on the potential interface with the risks involved in the operation. Based on the results, the duration of exposure to the sound level for Timberjack 450C and HSM 904 was calculated to be 4 and 5 hours per shift, respectively, which was less than standard rate. Also, in the cabin access 120 and 62 negative points, in driver's seat 170 and 41 points and in the cabin ventilation 101 and 71 negative points were scored, respectively. The HSM 904 had a more ergonomic standard in all of the indicators. By making some changes, such as increasing the number of stairs, cabin insulating, replacing the air filter by on right time, can improve the ergonomic condition and reduce the risk and potential damage.