Risk Reduction Based on Accident Factor Analysis of Combine Harvesters and Consideration of Differences in Risk Factors Based on Mechanical Properties

Abstract

Operators of combine harvesters have suffered serious accidents owing to the machine’s structure and working characteristics. A clarification of the risks and the relations between mechanical properties and accident types can contribute to developing effective countermeasures. In this study, the risks of accident factors were calculated, and the relationship between mechanical properties and accident types was examined. The risks of death and serious injury are expected to decrease by approximately 26.6 % by addressing four factors: blind spots, road inclination, unsafe and poor operability, soft field and slippery road. Moreover, three properties of combine harvesters (machine size, operator’s seat location, and multiple rotating elements) cause the machine to fall or operator to become entangled.