Study for the reduction of vibration levels on an “olive electrical harvester”

Abstract

Vibrations have always been considered as a risk factor and an object of evaluation in working environment, particularly for the agro-forestry sector, due to the high use of vibrating equipments. As a result of many tests carried out on the major “Olive Harvesters” equipments, it is possible to establish that during the harvesting the vibration exposure is higher than the limits defined from directive 2002/44/EC for the hand-arm system. In accordance with the law, the employer must reduce the risk below these limits, also purchasing equipments with a lower emission of vibrations, but this solution naturally can cause an increment of costs. Aim of the research is to define possible interventions, with low technical and economic impacts, for the reduction of the vibration transmitted to the hand-arm system of the workers.