Influence of saw chain type and wood species on the concentration of wood dust in a forestry operation

This study examines the impact of chainsaw chain type and tree species on the concentration of inhalable wood dust generated during motor-manual harvesting in forested areas. The effects of conducting real-world measurements of inhalable dust within the operator's breathing zone during forestry work are investigated. Two different chain types were evaluated: the commonly used 3/8" pitch chain (conventional chain) and the 0.325" pitch chain. Additionally, measurements were taken for three tree species: beech, oak, and pine (including both live and standing dead trees after a fire). Results showed that, overall, using the conventional 3/8" chain type yielded the highest concentration of wood dust for all three tree species. Notably, the highest wood dust concentration was observed in the burned