This book summarizes some of the experiences acquired in Chile in more of 20 years of study to improve the working and living environment of forest workers. The studies undertaken in the first six years after the founding of the Laboratory of Ergonomics were devoted to understanding the physical characteristics’ of forest workers, their social and working environment and to the quantification of food intake and eating habits in relation to energy expenditure of forest activities. The aim of the study was also to improve manual work methods in order to reduce workloads and increase efficiency. This book is divided in three parts: the first cointains a descriptions of some aspects of Chilean forest work and forest workers; the second part summarizes several case studies carried out in silvicultural opoerations and harvesting; and finally the third part it presents some ideas on how to face future mechanization, including an illustrated checklist for the evaluation of machines.

Type of Case
Printed publication (book, sourcebook, journal article…)

Publisher
ILO

Region
Americas

Biome
All

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted)

Primary Designated Function
Production