Coupling forces exerted on chain saws by inexperienced tree fellers

This study shows that inexperienced tree fellers exert larger coupling forces on chain saws than professional forestry workers. Transmissibility of vibration to the hand and arm, which depends on coupling forces, is increased in a group of non-experienced lumberjacks. These results may constitute a starting point for the further development of more effective methods for assessing the risks of vibration exposure and for developing better tools and vibration-reducing devices.