Published in Scientific Papers. Series A. Agronomy, Vol. LXII, Issue 1
Written by Kevin SHUTTLEWORTH, Lancelot BUTTERS, Ian TAYLOR
Operators of agricultural tractors are exposed to high levels of acceleration. This paper critically examines acceleration data (in the x and y axis) collected through practical tests. Data collected shows that when cabin suspension is fitted to agricultural tractors, operators are exposed to increased levels of acceleration, up to 62% and 25% at 2.5 kph in the x and y axis respectively, when compared to the respective chassis system. Acceleration above 5.98 m/s2 may result in the operator developing musculoskeletal disorders (MSD). This limit is exceeded in the y axis at 17 kph by a four-point active cabin suspension. Moreover, the mass of the head/torso, will multiply acceleration measured at the seat base, by 2.5, therefore, this limit is exceeded at 6.5 kph in the y axis. Consequently, up to 62% of agricultural tasks have the potential for the operator to sustain MSD. Concerns have been raised regarding the current operational speeds of agricultural tractors; this is due to the potential for acceleration above 5.98 m/s2, to be generated and transferred to the operator and can result in MSD.
[Read full article] [Citation]
