DefinePK

Abstract

ABSTRACT The performance of conventional and improved hand tools in tree felling and conversion was tested in Changa Manga Plantation in the basis of labour productively and workload. The results of time and heart rate studies showed that the improved tools demanded 12.4 minutes less of work time per cubic meter of timber and firewood converted. The technical labor productivity for work with improved tools also higher by about 24% and this increase was highly significant. Improved tools reduced the physical workload in the workers highly significantly as shown by their lower average total pulse by 9 beats/min. These results indicate that introduction of improved tools and vocational training of forest workers are very essential for higher labor productivity and improvement of socio-economic condition of forest workers in Pakistan.