Heart Rate Index as a Measure of Physical Workload in Chainsaw Operations

Timber harvesting operations, including manual and motor-manual activities, require workers who are in good health to be able to work effectively. The aim of our paper was to introduce a simplified index methodology for workload assessment. Generally available wearable technology, namely Garmin, Biostrap, and Whoop devices, were used. The dependence of the heart rate (HR) on physical workload was examined to calculate the Heart Rate Index. The case study was performed with several variations of chainsaw devices cutting the poplar wood. It was proved that the use of a heavier work tool, MS 500i/90 cm 9.3 kg, contributes both to the creation of a non-ergonomic working position and to an increase in the energy required to perform work, which was represented by an increase in heart rate. With a lighter work tool and a shorter cutting blade, both a decrease in heart rate and a reduction in the working time performed in a non-ergonomic position were achieved. The results can be used in common practice for workers’ self-assessment to increase safety and health protection at work or work productivity, not only in forestry-related professions.