Forest Operations > Operational Hazards > Ergonomics

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is the relationship between workers and their work environment.

Machinery used today has been designed with ergonomic factors in mind to improve operator comfort and reduce stress on the body.

Old machines or badly designed machine or tasks can cause stress, headaches, fatigue or injury. 

Operators need to take advantage of these features to make their job easier, safer and healthier.

For example: Take a few minutes to learn what your machine’s seat can do - you might be surprised how comfortable and adjustable it can be (see Fig’s 13 a and 13 b).

Fig 13a Correct operator posture.

Fig 13b Incorrect posture, operator slouching.

Techniques for reducing injuries and fatigue in machine operators:

• Build rest breaks into the working day. Get out of the machine for 5 minutes every hour and move around.
• Use mirrors and swivel seats to do away with the need to twist and turn.
• Practice muscle relaxation by relaxing arms and hands for 5 to 10 seconds every 3 to 5 minutes.
• Maintain good posture and adjust the seat, arm rests, and controls to suit.
• Keep elbows low and relaxed.
• Keep wrists straight wherever possible, and in line with the forearms.
• Your back should be well supported by the seat; especially the ‘small’ of the back.
• Avoid leaning forward and to the side of your seat.
• Sit well back in the seat so that the thighs are supported, and feet are flat on the floor.
• Occasionally stretch the back, neck, shoulders and arms.
• Find clear level area to perform maintenance on machines or secure loads (Fig 14).

Fig 14 Securing a load.

This truck driver has moved off the rough narrow sandy track onto a clear wide forest break to tie his load down.  

Self Help Activity 8, Ergonomics

Download the activity by clicking the icon above. When completed please submit via the LMS or directly to your trainer.