Survey of Riding Tractor Operating Comfort in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

Abstract

The body measurements of 76 riding tractor operators as well as the mechanical problems and operating comfort associated with their profession were investigated at the Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines in 2001-2003. As a result, the characteristic and detailed body measurements of the typical riding tractor operator in the aforementioned area in the Philippines was established. The study likewise revealed that 100% of the riding tractor operators were male with an average riding tractor operation experience of 3.3 years. The most widely used riding tractor brands were the Kubota and Iseki tractors which accounted for 63.2% and 21.1% of the total units surveyed. The average engine size was 16.6kW. The most prevalent problems mentioned by the riding tractor operators were excessive engine heat conduction, implement workmanship/durability and the need for operator cover with 86.8%, 85.5% and 59.2% ratings, respectively. Ergonomic related problems were top billed by excessive engine heat convection (86.8%), need for operator cover/protection from unfavorable weather (59.2%), and better seat design (47.4%).