Due to population growth in Türkiye, demand for wood-based raw materials continues to demonstrate an upward trend. Despite increased mechanization, the preference for chainsaw use in the cutting phase remains high. Since this still involves labor-intensive work, it is important to reduce risk factors in terms of worker health and safety. When cutting is carried out with a chainsaw, many air pollutants such as bark residues, dust, sawdust, fuel material, etc. are expelled into the environment. This situation reduces the air quality for the workers and environment. This study aims to investigate the impact of the cutting process on worker health and environmental impacts in stone pine (Pinus pinea L.) plantations in Sarıyer region. The air pollution parameters PM2.5, PM10, CO2 and HCHO levels during the cutting process were measured using a Temtop M2000 air quality meter. The results showed that when comparing these values to standard air quality metrics, it's clear that the peak values of PM2.5, PM10, and CO2 result in a "Unhealthy" environment. The average values for all three are classified as "Unhealthy" for PM2.5, and "Moderate" for PM10 and CO2. Based on the identified results, risk factors need to be determined, and corresponding measures must be taken. In this context, the use and design of personal protective equipment is significant. Updates to designs and information dissemination need to be carried out based on risk factors. There is also a need to raise awareness and provide training for forest workers on the use of protective equipment. These findings may contribute to the development of effective policies on the health of workers in wood production and environmental air quality.
저자
Ebru Bilici [ Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Forestry, Department of Forest Engineering, Istanbul, Türkiye ]
Corresponding Author
Tolga Öztürk [ Giresun University, Dereli Vocational High School, Giresun, Türkiye ]
