Abstract
In mechanized harvesting of wood operations, in a cut-to-length system, occupational noise is emitted by self-propelled forest machines, which compromises the safety and health of operators. Therefore, the occupational noise levels emitted by self-propelled forestry machines, in a cut-to-length system, were investigated to determine which are in line with current Brazilian legislation. The noise levels issued by 22 self-propelled forestry machines in the mechanized harvesting of wood operations, in Eucalyptus and Pinus planted forests, were collected during a full day of measurement. Taking into account the operations performed and the type of planted forest, homogeneous groups of operators were formed. Based on Regulatory Norms N.9 and N.15 adopted for labor purposes in Brazil, occupational noise levels were analyzed. In relation to harvester operators, 36.4% were exposed to values above the exposure limit of 85 dB (A) and 63.6% to the action level of 80 dB (A). Regarding the forwarder operators, 100% were exposed to values that exceeded the action level. For the analyzed conditions, for the cut-to-length system employed in harvesting wood in forest planted with Eucalyptus and Pinus, the occupational noise levels of the self-propelled forest machines are not in line with current Brazilian legislation for labor purposes.
Highlights
The mechanization of operations involving the harvesting of wood has become essential for the constant supply of raw materials to the flower-based industries
It was found that 36.4% of the total operators of selfpropelled forestry machines were exposed to occupational noise levels above the exposure limit recommended by Regulatory Standard N.15 [41]
The cut-to-length system used for harvesting wood in forests planted with Eucalyptus and Pinus in Brazil, the occupational noise levels of the self-propelled forestry machines are not in line with current Brazilian legislation for labor purposes
Summary
The mechanization of operations involving the harvesting of wood has become essential for the constant supply of raw materials to the flower-based industries. In Brazil, among the commonly used systems for mechanized harvesting of forests planted with the genera Eucalyptus and Pinus, the cut-to-length system stands out. This is comprised of selfpropelled forestry machines that jointly carry out cutting-sequence operations, processing felled trees and transporting shortwood suspended in bunks. Forwarders carry the shortwood, suspended in bunks, to the margins of forest roads or to intermediate yards [7,8] As it is a fully mechanized system, it allows for productivity adjustments due to changes in industrial demand, with subsequent productivity gains in forestry operations [9,10,11,12]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
