Harvesting Work (Raking)

Blueberry Harvesting Conditions:

• Seasons vary slightly depending on location, but the peak season is generally from
  mid-June to mid-August.
• Working piece rate: emphasis is on speed. Most use the biggest rake they can
  handle, increasing strain.
• Working in stooped posture: worker’s torso is bent over most of the time.
• Carrying loaded buckets exceeding NIOSH recommendations.

All of these harvesting and pruning conditions may contribute to muscle strain injuries, especially in the back, knees, wrist, arm and shoulder.

Harvesting and pruning conditions are also affected by bush varieties.
Northeastern blueberry varieties:

Lowbush Blueberries (6-18” high):

• Grow wild in northeastern states and Canada
• More bending/kneeling
• Maneuvering around support wires or netting
• Doesn’t require ladders
• Harvested with rakes

Highbush (cultivated) Blueberries (8-10’ high):

• Grow from Florida to Maine
• More reaching – creates strain
• Ladders may be needed
• Harvested by hand or mechanical harvesters