title: Trencher operator seating positions. A simple ergonomic assessment of two styles of layout.
abstract: A comparison of two different styles of operator position in a trencher were compared using biomechanical principles and a field survey. A major postural difference between the two styles is the amount of time spent by the operators looking to the rear of their seated position. This was confirmed by a simple experiment. The style of position used in the skid steer type of trencher, facing the working tool, was found to be significantly better than the traditional fore-aft tractor style configuration.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Health and Safety Officer, Melbourne College of Advanced Education, Victoria, Australia.
authors.forename: R B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Brennan