Abstract

The study analyzed 400 occupational accidents occurring between 1981 and 1984 at 9 logging camps in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue area, in order to evaluate the effect of the mechanization of felling and pruning operations on safety. The frequency, severity, and nature of accidents in conventional and mechanized camps were compared.

Mechanized camps had a significantly - nearly three-fold - lower accident incidence and a different accident profile than conventional camps. Mechanization was associated with a reduction of accidents caused by saw operation and tree-fall, but an increase in those occurring during repair and maintenance of machines, tools, and accessories. No difference was observed, however, in the severity of the accidents or the related average work absence in the two types of camps. The results of this study could prompt further sectorial or inter-sectorial studies of technological change.