Citation

Vayrynen S, Ojanen K. J. Occup. Accid. 1983; 5(2): 81-88.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1983, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The helmet used in forestry today is the same as the helmet in industrial use. The eye protector, which is usually a face shield made from wire mesh, is fastened to the helmet. The aim of this study is to clarify the frequency of use of, the protection afforded by, and the need for improvement in the helmet and eye protector. These things were investigated by a questionnaire, an interview, observations, accident and near-accident reports, and user and laboratory tests. In 1980, 88% of the loggers always used a helmet, and 32% an eye protector. In principle, the use of helmet, eye protector and ear protector is compulsory during forest work in Finland. Of every 100 accidents in logging in 1980, 8 to 15 injured the head or eyes, according to official statistics and the questionnaire. Loggers reported that the helmet was too hot in summer and too cold in winter. The low utilization rate for eye protectors is partly explained by design defects: the protectors become frosted in winter; there is poor visibility through the protectors when it rains or when dark; the protectors cause glare in sunshine. Product development seems to be necessary so that the helmet and eye protector can better fulfill the special requirements of forestry.