Assessing risks and planning mechanical harvesting on steep slopes.
The BC Forest Safety Council produced a resource package in 2015 for using mechanised harvesting on steep slopes. Logging-on gives an overview of the information contained in this document. The guide was developed with wide stakeholder input which included logging contractors and machine manufacturers. Because of the high safety risks associated with logging on steep slopes, this guide was developed to provide additional information to make these operations safer. The resource package has four sections:
- Risk assessment and site pre-work: Resources are provided to identify site-specific hazards and to prescribe control measures. It also has a brief list of general hazards and risk factors that planners should consider.
- Best practices for steep slope operations: General and machine specific procedures are provided. Standard practices and additional controls are identified.
- Steep slope planning and operational responsibilities: Planning and administrative responsibilities are described for forest owners, employers (contractors) and employees (machine operator).
- Support documents: Generic forms and practical information is provided for use in steep slope operations. Included are operator experience and qualifications records; supervisor experience and qualification records; steps for dealing with emergencies; and a WorkSafeBC steep-slope logging checklist. Source