TRI-PLANAR TRUNK MOTION IN NORTHERN ONTARIO SKIDDER OPERATORS

This study was conducted to obtain quantitative postural data for skidder operators in three planes of trunk motion under field operating conditions. With 31.0±15.8 minutes of the continuously collected data from seven forestry skidders, it was found that the operators typically sat with a forward facing and slightly extended trunk accompanied by a large lateral bend to the left while driving. When observing the operators picking up and dropping off a load, the operators would adopt a large lateral bend to the left, extend the trunk and rotate the trunk to the right. A flexed trunk, deep lateral bending, and frequent movement between two postures were associated with musculoskeletal health complaints in the skidder operators. Furthermore, visibility requirements and cab design were reported to influence operator postures.

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