Forestry and Logging

Studies in this category using the RULA method have only been carried out in forestry.

Several authors focused on rubber harvesting workers (tappers). Meksawi et al. [51] also used a survey and a form. According to the RULA results, an action Level 3 was obtained, so changes needed to be made to the work. Pramchoo et al. [35] assessed the ergonomics of a new knife designed for tapping. Two groups participated, one of them using the new knife. In each group, half of the workers suffered discomfort related to the carpal tunnel syndrome. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTQ) was also applied. The new knife, among other advantages, reduced the discomfort from carpal tunnel syndrome in sufferers and improved the wrist posture.

Regarding forestry activity, two studies were performed to assess workers. Cremasco et al. [34] focused on tasks performed with a wood-chipper; they also used REBA in their assessment. Unver-Okan et al. [43] focused on forestry nurseries; they also employed REBA, OWAS and QEC (Quick Exposure Check). In both cases, it was determined that the RULA method was the most suitable for such assessments.
