Wood Business

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Safety standard for hand felling

May 15, 2014 - The B.C. Forest Safety Council and Worksafe BC have released new safety standards for chainsaw felling. The detailed document addresses many safety concerns and an initial safety meeting checklist. An excerpt of the publication is below.

FallSafe: Universal Safety Principles

1. Plan the work/work the plan.
2. Identify/remove obstructions to safe fall of tree.
3. Maintain control of the tree;
• Maintain control of the work area;
• Maintain control of yourself.
4. Watch for/recognize dangers and deal with them.
5. Work from clear-to-safest position.
6. Have a Plan B.
7. Find alternatives to falling, i.e., blasting, machine assistance.
8. Do not be afraid to ask for help from your partner.
9. Tell your co-workers if they are not working safely.
10.Never stop learning.
11.Exercise your freedom to choose to do the right thing and follow safe work procedures at all times.

Remember that if you encounter an unsafe situation or falling difficulty, stop work! Note that the OH&S Regulation supercedes all other legislation. Seek qualified assistance to determine a safe alternative. A professional faller does not compromise safety.

The publication can be found here.

May 15, 2014  By  Amie Silverwood



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