Insights into effective rest breaks for reducing cognitive and musculoskeletal strain in farm machinery operators: a...

Agricultural machinery operators are frequently exposed to whole-body vibration (WBV), which contributes to musculoskeletal discomfort, cognitive fatigue, and impaired balance. While engineering controls such as improved seating and suspension systems have been widely studied, there is growing interest in complementary behavioral interventions, such as regular movement-based rest breaks, to mitigate the negative health effects of WBV exposure.

We explored operators' perceptions of rest break activities aimed at reducing WBV-related strain, with attention to factors influencing uptake, acceptability, and real-world feasibility.

This was a reflexive-descriptive qualitative piece, to a broader experimental study involving 15 participants (10 in-lab, 5 in-field). In-lab participants completed a WBV simulation protocol and evaluated structured break activities (sitting, walking, stretching); in-field participants were observed on machinery and interviewed about their usual practices. Thematic analysis was conducted using an inductive approach.

Five overarching themes emerged. Participants preferred movement-based breaks but noted barriers such as time constraints and ingrained work habits posed significant barriers to regular break-taking. Greater awareness of WBV's long-term health impacts was considered as motivators. Perceptions of WBV exposure differed between lab and field participants, influencing the perceived urgency for rest breaks. While engineering controls (e.g. seat design) were valued, they were viewed as necessary but insufficient without complementary active self-care strategies.

Movement-based breaks were perceived as beneficial, but their adoption requires flexible, context-sensitive integration into daily routines. Interventions like gaze stabilization exercises offer physiological benefit, but must be adapted to respect farmers' work routines and productivity imperatives for successful uptake.