Physical Exertion and Efficiency of Tree Planters
Author Information
Author(s): Hodges Alastair NH, Kennedy Michael D
Primary Institution: University of Alberta
Hypothesis
Work pace would be related to experience level, with more experienced tree planters having lower HR for a given work pace and spending a smaller proportion of time planting each tree seedling than less experienced tree planters.
Conclusion
Tree planters work at approximately 65% of age-predicted HRmax, and productivity is related to effort rather than experience or task efficiency.
Supporting Evidence
- Tree planters maintain an average heart rate of 115 beats.min-1 throughout the workday.
- More experienced tree planters have a higher work pace and lower heart rate for a given pace.
- Productivity is linked to physical exertion rather than just experience.
Takeaway
Tree planters work hard and their speed improves with experience, but they don't spend less time planting each tree.
Methodology
Heart rate was monitored on 34 tree planters during work, with video analysis of tasks for 22 subjects.
Limitations
The sample size of inexperienced workers was too small to draw strong conclusions about their performance.
Participant Demographics
20 males and 14 females, mean age 23.9 years, mean experience 3.4 seasons.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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