Safety Tips

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, Transportation Mining and Utilities:

1. Follow the safety procedures in the OSHA regulations that apply to logging operations [29 CFR 1910.266]:

Before beginning logging operations, carefully check for signs of loose bark, broken limbs, or other damage before trees are felled or removed [29 CFR 1910.266(h)(1)(vii)].

Assign work areas so that no tree can fall into an adjacent, occupied work area. The distance between  adjacent, occupied work areas must be at least two tree lengths of the trees being felled [29 CFR 1910.266(d)(6)(ii)].

If a tree is lodged against another tree, remove it before work begins in the area by using mechanical means or other techniques that minimize worker exposures [29 CFR 1910.266(h)(1)(vi)].

Instruct fellers to (1) evaluate each new situation for snow and ice accumulation, wind, lean of the tree,  dead limbs, and location of other trees, and (2) take appropriate steps to avoid creating hazards for   workers [29 CFR 1910.266(h)(2)(ii)].

When cutting a spring pole or other tree under stress, permit no one but the feller to be closer than two tree  lengths when the stress is released [29 CFR 1910.266(h)(2)(iv)].

Assure that seat belts are used for each vehicle or machine that is equipped with rollover or falling-object protective guards. This precaution includes any vehicle or machine provided by either employers or workers [29 CFR 1910.266(d)(3)].

Provide workers with appropriate personal protective equipment, including hand, leg, head, eye, and face protection. Instruct workers in the proper use, maintenance, inspection, repair, and replacement of this equipment and enforce its use. Assure that each worker wears appropriate foot protection [29 CFR 1910.266(d)(1)(i-vii)].

Provide first-aid kits at each worksite where trees are being felled, at each landing, and on each worker transport vehicle. The number and contents of the first-aid kits must reflect the degree of isolation of the  worksite, the number of workers, and the hazards reasonably anticipated at the worksite [29 CFR 1910.266(d)(2)(i)].

2. Develop, implement, and enforce a comprehensive written safety program that includes safe work procedures for all tasks performed. This safety program should include but not be limited to the following elements:

• Training workers to evaluate the timber felling area so that hazards can be identified and      controlled.
• Instructing workers to plan and clear retreat paths as necessary before beginning any  cuts. 
• Training workers in proper felling techniques (for example, the proper undercut, backcut, and amount of  hinge wood to leave).

3. Before beginning work, conduct an initial and daily jobsite survey to identify hazards and implement appropriate controls.
   
4. Designate a competent person to conduct periodic safety inspections to ensure that workers are performing their assigned tasks according to established safe work procedures. Immediately correct any identified hazards or improper work practices.
   
5. Oversee the selection and use of chain saws:

• Ensure that the appropriate chain saw and components are selected for the type of work to be performed.
• Purchase chain saws with safety features such as chain brakes, anti-kickback chain designs, trigger safety switches, and vibration-dampened components.
• Ensure that chain saws are operated, adjusted, and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.