Seating discomfort for tractor operators - a critical review

A large number of studies have been conducted and researchers have suggeste d several criteria for evaluating discomfort and the suitability of a tract or seat in a given working condition. The studies have led to various param eters, viz. the body pressure distributed under and supporting both the but tocks, thighs and the back of an operator, control of posture in static or dynamic condition, ride vibration, exposure time on task and other factors. But in the absence of a more definitive and the most logical criteria part icularly from biomechanical viewpoint, the researchers will continue to des ign conditions and procedures to understand the seat dynamics and evaluate the seating discomfort. Therefore, this paper reviews the research informat ion available in this regard and attempts to set the most appropriate proce dure for assessment of seating discomfort during tractor driving.