Identificação dos riscos associados ao corte semimecanizado na conversão de áreas, para implantação de florestas comerciais

Abstract

The objective of this study was to observe and identify the risks to which chainsaw operators are exposed during the course of their activities in the forestry industry in the city of Empress, MA. Data collection consisted of questionnaires submitted directly to operators. During the observation period, we interviewed 15 chainsaw operators, identified the physical, chemical, ergonomic risks to which they were exposed and accidents which occurred. Furthermore, we evaluated the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), logging techniques used, and the adoption of preventive measures regarding the safety of the chainsaw operator. Results show that the interviewees are composed of a majority of operators with little formal education, which does not necessarily interfere with how well they performed in their job. We also found that operations were highly professional in the study area, since the large company operating there is currently applying for certification. All operators passed the entrance exam. Most operators claimed not to suffer pain during the course of their activities. However, the pain they do suffer originated mostly in the lower limbs. With respect to operator habits, only 13% claimed not to consume alcohol, while the others allegedly drank only on weekends. All the interviewees used PPE and claimed to know of its importance for to ensure their own safety. Of the 15 operators surveyed, only 20% suffered an accident at work, and 67% of injuries involved the legs and feet.