A Comparison of Motor-Manual Cleaning Methods on the Norwegian West Coast

Abstract

Time consumption, heart rate, sagittal load moments for the low back, perceived exertion, and tool preferences were measured during motor-manual cleaning with chain saws and cleaning saws in western Norway. While no difference was found in heart rate or perceived cardiovascular exertion, the chain saw was observed to have the lowest time consumption per ha of the two tools. Calculated sagittal load moments and local feeling of strain in the low back were significantly higher for the chain saw than the cleaning saw. The difference in time consumption between the two tools was greatest for the least experienced personnel in steep terrain. However, because of the higher risk for low back pain, the chain saw could only be recommended on relatively steep slopes. The cleaning saw was preferred most often by the most experienced forestry workers in stands of high removal density