How Exoskeletons Can Ease Strain in Forestry Work

A Field Example from the Municipal Forestry Operation of Ermatingen

A steep hillside. A chainsaw. And hours of heavy lifting. That’s what a typical day looks like for a forestry worker. But what happens when a new kind of support system enters that picture – one that doesn’t change the job, but quietly helps the body do it?

This was what the municipal forestry operation of Ermatingen set out to explore. Together with RG Arbeitsschutz, the team decided to test two different exoskeletons from Auxivo: The LiftSuit and the OmniSuit. The aim was clear: find out whether this kind of wearable support could make a meaningful difference in everyday forestry work, without getting in the way.

The LiftSuit is a lightweight support system designed to reduce strain on the lower back during lifting and forward-leaning tasks. The OmniSuit offers combined support for both the lower back, shoulders and arms. It offers a wider range of vertical support – from lifting at ground level to working overhead. Despite the added functionality, it remains compact and easy to wear, even in rough terrain.

“We didn’t want a gadget,” explains Sebastian Bänteli, head of operations. “We were looking for something practical. Something that could ease the physical strain our team faces every day, without making their work more complicated.”

A Local Collaboration with Swiss Roots

The choice to work with Auxivo wasn’t just about the product itself. It was also about trust.

“We liked the fact that it’s a Swiss company,” says Bänteli. “But even more important was the direct, personal contact with the team. That gave us confidence. We knew we’d get quick answers, and that they understood our needs.”

The trial focused on spring tasks like wood harvesting, planting, and fence building – all physically intense jobs that demand strength, stamina, and often involve working in awkward positions for hours at a time. These were the situations where the exoskeletons were expected to offer support.

From Skepticism to Routine

As with any new equipment, the introduction of the exoskeletons was met with some initial skepticism among the team.

“Some of us were unsure, especially when it came to wood harvesting,” one participant recalls. “Would it get in the way? Would it limit movement?”

But those doubts didn’t last long. After just a few days of use, the exoskeletons became part of the daily routine.

“It felt unfamiliar at first,” another worker notes. “But after about a week of wearing it regularly, I barely noticed it anymore.”

This quick adaptation turned out to be one of the most important outcomes of the test: both the LiftSuit and the OmniSuit worked alongside the users. They encouraged better posture, reduced physical effort during strenuous tasks, and blended into the daily workflow – without restricting freedom of movement or interfering with tools.

Support Where It’s Needed

One of the most noticeable effects during the trial was the improvement in posture, especially during lifting:

“You’re not hunched over anymore,” a team member said. “It helps keep your back straight, and by the end of the day, you feel the difference.”

Another key factor was how easy it was to use.

“It’s really just like putting on a vest.”

No complicated setup, no extra hands needed. The exoskeletons can be adjusted quickly to individual needs and is tough enough to withstand rough forestry conditions. Only one minor issue was observed when operating a vehicle while wearing hearing protection and using the OmniSuit: the exoskeleton would occasionally touch the hearing protection. However, this did not impact overall usability.

Looking Ahead

The trial included both LiftSuit and OmniSuit models, giving the team the opportunity to compare them. The LiftSuit focuses on relieving the lower back and hips during lifting and forward-leaning tasks, while the OmniSuit adds shoulder and arm support – especially helpful for overhead activities. Both models use passive mechanical energy storage to reduce muscular strain, without relying on batteries or electronics.

The trial is continuing through the spring and summer.

“We’re still deciding which model is best for us, but the direction is promising. In principle, we see this as part of our long-term workplace safety strategy."

Bänteli also sees a broader need for support across the industry.

“There needs to be more awareness about occupational health in forestry. And ideally, institutions should support these kinds of initiatives. Because at the end of the day, it’s about protecting people – not just now, but for the long haul.”

Conclusion: Quiet, Effective Support

The early results from Ermatingen suggest that exoskeletons like the LiftSuit and OmniSuit can play a valuable role in forestry work. They don’t replace strength or skill but can take some of the burden off the body, especially during demanding tasks – in a way that fits into the everyday rhythm of the job.

For RG Arbeitsschutz, the results are encouraging. The plan now is to continue expanding the use of exoskeletons in forestry and similar fields.

Curious about how our exoskeletons could support your team?

Get in touch with us. We’re happy to explore what’s possible. Whether you want to test our exoskeletons in your own work environment or simply learn more. Let’s find the right solution for your workplace.