Top 5 Reasons Tractor and Combine Cab Comfort is a Health Essential  

Horsepower, torque, fuel efficiency and new technology often get most of the headlines with new farm tractors and combines. But buyers, owners and operators know too that cab comfort is an important thing to consider. After all, who wants to go home at the end of a long day in the field with aches and pains because of an uncomfortable cab?      

Once thought a luxury, cab comfort is actually a health essential for farmers operating machines for long hours in the field. It’s not about kicking back and taking it easy; it’s about keeping your body in good shape so you can stay alert, safe and productive in the field. At CLAAS FARMPOINT, we take that seriously, and here are a few ways we’re helping farmers stay comfortable and healthy, even in the busiest times of year in the field like planting and harvest.   

1. Avoiding the “Backache Blues.” Data from the American Chiropractic Association show back pain is one of the leading causes of and precursors to disability around the world. Studies have shown that prolonged sitting in poorly designed seats can contribute to short-term lower back discomfort and long-term musculoskeletal problems. That’s why we’ve put a lot of thought in the ergonomic seats in CLAAS combines and tractors. Features like lumbar support, adjustable ergonomic controls and technology like intelligent suspension can significantly reduce the risk of back pain and improve overall comfort. It’s for good reason; research from the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found the right ergonomics help reduce lower back pain among farm machinery operators by as much as 50%.   
2. Busting the dust. Farmers are no stranger to the dust that most field operations kick up. But what may seem minor while you’re working can turn into major health issues if you don’t take the right precautions. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) shows dust in the field can contribute to issues from asthma to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A well-sealed tractor or combine cab can help minimize exposure to dust while you’re in the field. CLAAS tractors and combines are equipped with efficient air filtration systems that can significantly reduce the inhalation of harmful particles, ultimately helping protect respiratory health.   
3. Thread the temperature needle. Working in extreme temperatures for extended periods of time in the field without adequate climate control can cause heat stress, dehydration or heat stroke when the mercury skyrockets. On the other end of the spectrum, long periods of cold exposure can lead to hypothermia and a higher likelihood of some musculoskeletal injuries. CLAAS helps you avoid both ends of the spectrum of temperature extremes with climate control that creates a comfortable working environment in the cab year-round. And a comfortable cab means it’s easier to work long hours and stay attentive and alert, which makes those long days in the field safer and more productive.   
4. Dial down the noise. Because of exposure to high-noise equipment, machinery and working environments, farming is one of the top three professions that directly causes hearing loss. Extended exposure to noise levels above 85 decibels can cause irreversible hearing loss. To help prevent this loss and associated health conditions like cardiovascular problems and mental health issues, CLAAS cabs are equipped with the latest soundproofing materials and noise-reducing technology that can significantly lower noise exposure levels. As a result, machines like the CLAAS XERION tractor lineup keep noise levels below 69 decibels, helping preserve operators’ hearing.   
5. Ergonomics isn’t one-size-fits-all. Spending a lot of time in a workspace that’s poorly designed can cause long-term musculoskeletal disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and back pain (see number one above). CLAAS tractors and combines feature ergonomic features that were specifically designed to be customized to every operator’s ideal working positions to minimize the likelihood of these issues as well as improve productivity, safety and overall alertness in the field. This includes adjustable controls, easy-to-reach storage and comfortable storage.   

With attention to these key areas, CLAAS has engineered and manufactured tractors and combines that enable operators to get the most of their time and energy in the field. With CLAAS machines, you can be sure to return home at the end of a long day in the field without the aches, pains and fatigue that’s common with other machines. Find out more about how the right CLAAS machines can work best for you on your operation.