# Heart Rate Index as a Measure of Physical Workload in Chainsaw Operations
## 4 Discussion
Forestry environments are harsh, characterized by extreme weather, heavy rainfall, and rugged terrain. These conditions can damage standard wearable devices or affect their functionality. For example, sensors may fail when exposed to dust or dirt, while dense vegetation increases the risk of physical damage. Some of the commercial wearable devices not built to withstand such conditions often fail to deliver reliable performance. The physical demands of forestry work, such as climbing and heavy lifting, may introduce simple devices and motion artifacts, which distort physiological data like heart rate or oxygen levels. Sweat, dirt, and movement can disrupt sensor contact with the skin, leading to incomplete or inaccurate data. Power supply is another critical challenge, as many devices require frequent charging, which is impractical in remote forestry settings with limited access to electricity. User comfort is also a significant factor. Forestry workers already wear protective gear, and adding wearable devices can be uncomfortable or interfere with mobility. If workers perceive the devices as intrusive, they may be reluctant to wear them consistently. Additionally, privacy concerns about how sensitive physiological data are stored and used may create resistance to adopting the technology. Workers need assurance that their data are secure and used ethically. To overcome these limitations, wearable technology for forestry must prioritize designs capable of withstanding extreme environments. Devices should be waterproof, dustproof, and impact-resistant, similar to wearable systems used by firefighters. Firefighter observation systems, such as the Hexoskin product, are designed to endure extreme heat and physical impacts and may also provide a useful model for forestry applications. Improving data accuracy is another key area for development. Advanced algorithms to filter motion artifacts, similar to those in firefighter systems, can enhance data reliability. Hybrid sensor technologies combining optical and electrical methods could further improve accuracy under variable conditions. Additionally, integrating portable and sustainable power sources, such as solar chargers, can address the challenge of limited battery life in remote workplaces. User-centered design is essential for ensuring that wearable devices are lightweight, ergonomic, and compatible with protective clothing. Smart textiles, like those used in firefighter compression shirts, could be adapted for forestry workers. These materials ensure comfort while maintaining functionality. Data security must also be a priority, with robust encryption and clear policies on data ownership and usage to gain workers' trust. Finally, incorporating real-time analytics and predictive systems into wearable devices can provide timely alerts for health risks, such as dehydration or heat stress, enabling preventive action. Collaboration between developers, forestry professionals, and researchers, along with field testing, is crucial for refining these technologies for practical use. By addressing these challenges, wearable technology can transform forestry by improving safety and promoting sustainable work practices, drawing inspiration from proven solutions in similar high-risk industries and supporting them to maintain ergonomics, energy expenditure, and safety activities, including safety support for relatively alone workers. The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the physiological demands of forestry work, contributing to the broader discourse on occupational safety and health in physically demanding industries. Situating these results within the context of similar research from other sectors, such as firefighting and construction, highlights both shared challenges and unique considerations. The use of wearable technology in firefighting has revealed that sustained high-intensity tasks, such as carrying heavy equipment or working in extreme heat, result in HR patterns comparable to those documented in this study.