The Impact of Vibrations on the Hand–Arm System and Body of Agricultural Tractor Operators in Relation to Operational Parameters, Approach: Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP)

This paper presents research on the impact of vibrations on the hand&ndash:arm and body system of agricultural tractor operators as ergonomic indicators in relation to certain operational parameters. The measurements were conducted on a LANDINI POWERFARM 100 tractor on agricultural production areas and access roads of the Agricultural and Veterinary School in Osijek. The measurements followed the ISO 5008:2015 standard, which describes the creation of test tracks: a smooth track of 100 m in length and a rough track of 35 m in length. Body vibration measurements were conducted according to the prescribed standards HRN ISO 2631-1: 1999/A1:2019 and HRN ISO 2631-4:2010. Hand&ndash:arm system vibration measurements were performed according to the prescribed standards HRN ISO 5349-1:2008 and HRN ISO 5349-2:2008/A1:2015. After the measured data were processed, a three-factor analysis of variance was performed, where some operational parameters were designated as A&mdash:agrotechnical surfaces (6 types), B&mdash:tractor speed (6 speeds), and C&mdash:tire air pressure (3 pressures), along with multiple regression analysis and the AHP (analytical hierarchical process). This research determined that none of the measured hand&ndash:arm system vibrations exceeded the warning (2.5 ms&minus:2) or limit (5 ms&minus:2) values of daily exposure. Furthermore, vibrations affecting the operator&rsquo:s body in the x-axis at higher speeds and pressures C2 and C3, in the y-axis at higher speeds and pressures C1 and C2, and in the z-axis at the highest speed and pressures C1 and C2 were found to exceed the daily exposure warning value of 0.5 ms&minus:2. It was concluded that the operator&rsquo:s health is at risk, and it is recommended that the seat&rsquo:s air suspension system be inspected to prevent further complications in a timely manner.