Evaluation of the Risk Arising From Repetitive Movements During Manual Pruning in Vineyards by Using Measured Forces

Winter vineyard pruning is mainly manual (Schillaci et al., 2009), with the use of traditional secateurs. During pruning cuts follow on from one another in rapid succession and with a certain regularity and hence this operation characterised by high frequency and a stereotypic load on the upper limbs can in time cause WMSDs, (Work related Muscular Skeletal Disorders). The aim of the work was to assess the risk arising from repetitive movements of the upper limbs during manual pruning in vineyards. The Ocra Index (Colombini & Occhipinti, 2005, 2007) was used. The research was carried out in a vineyard situated on the north face of Etna. Seven sites were studied, this involving 30 pruning operators and 12 hours of observation. The process was broken down into component phases and the times and method of execution were recorded for the various operations. The number of cuts per trunk was also noted. Besides data collecting and observations in the field, examination of the video film shot during the work made it possible to obtain or confirm further information about the frequency, stereotypic nature and posture. To assess the force used, a questionnaire on the perception of force required was given to each worker at the end of the survey. Also the health problems correlated with the various tasks were found by means of a questionnaire. The evaluations show that the dominant limb that holds the shears and makes the cut is at risk. This is confirmed by the answers to the questionnaire, as nearly all those interviewed stated they suffered from pain in their upper limbs. The most important factor, besides frequency and posture is the lack or inadequate distribution of rest periods together with the force required, as although the latter is not excessive, it is repeated throughout the work shift. The simulations showed that redesign of workstations can lead to OCRA indices reflecting a low or borderline risk level.