Alert of the Month

Forestry is a challenging industry at the best of times but difficult economic or operational conditions can heighten risk factors that may affect worker safety. Tight timelines, high production expectations, decreased work force, challenging terrain or roads are only a handful of issues that may compromise best safety practices.

It can be tempting to cut corners but there is a strong business case to keep safety as a top priority during tough times. The elevated costs associated with down time due to injuries, or damage to equipment or infrastructure are well worth considering.

Good Practices

When economic conditions are difficult, this is a cue to make sure the basics are done well. Use this list to keep operations on track:

• A solid operational plan is in place
   
•  Good team communication to ensure everyone knows the plan
   
•  Workers know how to use the equipment safely and reliably
   
•  Refresher or new training has been completed
   
•  The right tools are in place, are mechanically sound and ready to be used
   
•  The supervisor is on site, checking in with the workers and ensuring the operation is running smoothly
   
•  Workers are looking out for each other and being good teammates
   
•  Rushing, frustration and distraction are managed and avoided
   
•  Steps are taken to fix hazards or report them to someone who can fix them.

Additional Resources

• Coping with the Stress of Forestry’s Economic Downturn
  www.treefrogcreative.ca/mental-health-coping-with-the-stress-of-forestrys-economic-downturn
   
• Alert – Managing Stress in the Workplace
  /node/3354