Safety Bulletins

Felling. Still our Number 1 RISK!

Nationally, the lost time injury frequency rate has climbed steadily since July 2016. Industry data (IRIS) shows the critical risk area with the highest number of incidents was felling followed by breaking-out.  During the period, nine of the lost time felling injuries were in clearfell operations and the remaining four were in thinning operations. Of the felling injuries, four were the result of debris that either fell from above or that flicked back into the feller. Three injuries resulted from slipping over on the terrain and some involved being hit by the tree being felled or the driving tree.

PF Olsen Operations - A Similar Trend!

There have been six lost time injuries and two medical treatment injuries in our operations in the third quarter (Jul - Sep 2018)! Two of these occurred in tree felling showing similarities to the national report and that we should be concerned.  

Despite focus, tree felling remains our most serious risk!
What can we do to protect our tree fellers?

  • Plan the current work area thoroughly: identify all the hazards and risks. Note: WorkSafe NZ report that often tree fellers are relying on old or generic plans that do not meet the actual needs of the current work environment.
  • Work on it rather than in it: in this context it means proactive supervision by employers who must diligently and regularly monitor the high-risk tasks.

View this article in Safety Bulletin 109