In the most of main date fruit producer regions, including Iran, date palm crown access operation is still performed traditionally. The date plantation workers need to climb date trees. This may cause an unsafe condition, which increases the risk of fall from height. It is also associated with ergonomic and health problems. The present study aimed to develop a date tree climber device (DTCD) covering all aspects of safety, ergonomics and efficiency. A primary model of the DTCD was structured and modified based on a review of existing devices, a field investigation and an unstructured interview with 20 farmworkers. Participants rated their comfort, perceived pain and discomfort as well as exertion levels when using the DTCD compared to a traditional device (Parband). In total, eight key elements were suggested for the desired device. More than 60% of the participants reported that the DTCD was comfortable/very comfortable compared to Parband. Additionally, DTCD could significantly reduce the pain and discomfort of the back (p < .001), knees (p = .001) and Ankles/feet (p = .01). However, no significant difference was found between devices when the physical exertion was compared through Borg's RPE scale and heart rate analysis. The results of regression analysis showed that the DTCD users perceived lower exertion as the body weight increased (β = -0.18, p = .013). The signs of musculoskeletal disorders, pain and discomfort were strongly reduced among DTCD users and safety aspects improved, generally by reducing discomfort and physical exertion.
Keywords: Ergonomic intervention; climbing device; date tree; plantation.