Occupational health and safety assessment by the HIRARC method in coconut tappers in Wonosobo Regency, central Java, Indonesia

Coconut tapping is a high-risk informal occupation involving tree climbing, sap tapping, and descending activities performed with minimal engineering support. These tasks expose workers to significant fall hazards, ergonomic strain, and injuries due to manual handling and traditional tools. This study aimed to systematically identify workplace hazards, quantify risk levels, and propose appropriate risk-control measures using the HIRARC framework. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among all 55 coconut tappers in Wonosobo Regency, Indonesia. Hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk control were performed using the HIRARC method. Data were collected through direct observation, structured interviews, and standardized assessment sheets, and were used to develop context-specific safety recommendations. Eleven hazard sources were identified across climbing, tapping, and descending activities. Risk assessment revealed that 5.5% of tasks were low risk, 66.6% medium risk, and 27.7% high risk. High-risk hazards were primarily associated with falls, fractures, and severe injuries during climbing and descending. Coconut tapping involves predominantly medium- to high-risk activities, underscoring the urgent need for structured safety interventions. Implementing appropriate risk controls—such as PPE use, safety training, and standardized procedures—may substantially reduce occupational accidents and WMSDs among coconut tappers.