1. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 1 © Scarlett Research Ltd 2007 Whole-Body Vibration (WBV) on Agricultural Vehicles - Research Update Dr Andy Scarlett

2. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 2 © Scarlett Research Ltd 2007 l “Mechanical vibration that, when transmitted to the whole-body (when seated or standing), entails risks to worker health & safety” l A recognised problem upon agricultural vehicles l Regular, long-term WBV exposure has been shown to contribute to lower-back pain, but the precise risks are not well-defined l Emission and daily exposure levels had been assessed on ag. tractors, S.P. sprayers & ATVs, but not upon self-propelled harvesters l S.P. forage harvesters deemed likely to be a WBV ‘worst case’ of ‘harvesting machines’ Whole-Body Vibration on Ag. Vehicles

3. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 3 WBV on Agricultural Vehicles

4. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 4 WBV on Agricultural Vehicles

5. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 5 WBV on Self-Propelled Foragers ● 2 nd Cut grass and maize silaging operations investigated

6. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 6 WBV on Self-Propelled Foragers ● ‘On-Road’ travel generates the highest levels but, overall, WBV is unlikely to be a great concern on self propelled foragers during typical working day lengths

7. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 7 WBV on Self-Propelled Foragers ● Self propelled forager WBV levels are ‘moderate’ compared with certain other agricultural vehicles

8. Scarlett Research Ltd AJS Braking 3 - 8 © Scarlett Research Ltd 2007 l No recognised testing methodology for WBV assessment upon agricultural tractors l Tractors have been shown to be a potential WBV problem ……. Complicated by the various types of operation & tractor-implement configurations employed l Vehicles frequently fitted with WBV-reducing features, but no recognised method to assess the effectiveness of these axle / cab / seat suspension systems l Joint industry / HSE / private trust - funded research study being instigated to investigate the issue WBV on Ag. Vehicles – Where Next ?