Abstract

Mechanized cutting, as it is practised today, is safer than conventional cutting, but creates new safety concerns. This project focused on the effects of machine design and work organization on safety. The main safety problems occur when equipment operators, owners and mechanics are working outside the machines: verification, maintenance, repair and getting in and out of machines. The data used was gleaned from a survey conducted on six sites during the summer of 1989, based on interviews with 73 experienced workers, many foremen, superintendents, nurses and prevention representatives. The 255 accidents and incidents reported by companies between January 1988 and the time of the visit were analyzed. The accidents affected operators of skidders, fellers and tree trimmers, as well as forestry equipment owners and mechanics. For the three types of equipment mentioned, the report identifies the most critical areas for damage and design problems, the most risky maintenance and repair work, and the elements of the physical environment that have an impact on high-risk activities.