Postural risk assessment of felling operation in a poplar plantation, Iran

Felling operations in poplar plantations in Iran usually is performed with a chainsaw and by cutting workers. In connection with such dynamic work with repetitive work components, it is necessary to pay attention to the possible pressure on the musculoskeletal system of the workers, the evaluation of the work posture, and the calculation of risk index. To achieve the goals of the study, the Nordic questionnaire was used to study musculoskeletal problems in 9 felling workers in a poplar plantation in the Shanderman region of Guilan province. In the next stage images related to the evaluation of workers' postures during a 4-hour felling operation recorded by a video camera analyzed. The postural evaluation was performed by The Ovako Working Posture Analysing System (OWAS) method. In this study, 55 postures related to tree felling operations were obtained. The most discomfort of workers was related to the waist. The postural risk associated with felling operation was relatively high (I=251). Postural assessment of different felling work tasks indicated that the highest risk was incurred during back-cut (I=313), under-cut (I=303), delimbing (I=295), and bucking (I=281) respectively. 56.41 percent of categories need further assessment necessary soon and now. Back bent forward or backward, standing position and both knees bent, both hands below shoulder height and, force/load 10-20 kg (code:2142) were the most important ergonomic problem in logging operations. These findings indicate the need to provide training solutions among felling workers. In this regard, appropriate training techniques and methods of tree felling and work safety are recommended.