21 February 2025 Safety & Health 6. Working in the Clear Maintaining a safe distance from moving equipment and active logging operations is essential for preventing accidents. • Confirm All-Clear Signals: Workers must ensure all personnel are safely out of the work zone before starting or moving any machinery. • Identify Hazard Zones: Avoid areas where moving logs, swinging machinery, or rigging operations could pose risks. Unsafe locations include beneath guylines, near log decks, or within the swing radius of loaders. • Stay Visible: Always position yourself within the view of machine operators and ensure high-visibility clothing is worn. • Plan Escape Routes: Be prepared to quickly move to a safe location if unexpected hazards arise. 7. Proper Handling of Wire Ropes and Rigging Wire ropes and rigging systems are central to many logging operations. Important points include: • Inspect Daily: Learning how to look for signs of wear, such as broken wires, kinks, or corrosion. • Follow Load Limits: Understanding what load limits are and how to assess for it on the rigging and lines is a valuable tool to help increase the awareness of new employees. • Maintain and Store Properly: Lubricate ropes to reduce friction and store them off the ground to prevent damage. 8. Emergency Preparedness Being prepared for emergencies can save lives. Key steps include: • Know the Evacuation Plan: Understand how to exit the worksite quickly in case of rolling debris, fire, injury, or other worksite emergencies. • First Aid Training: Basic first aid knowledge is essential for treating injuries until professional help arrives and required by OR-OSHA Forest Activities Rules. • Emergency Communication: Ensure familiarity with the location’s communication tools, emergency contact numbers, and location of the written jobsite directions are located in case of emergency. 9. Respect Environmental Regulations Logging operations often occur in sensitive forest environments. New employees must: • Follow Buffer Zones: Be aware of working near streams or protected areas, where proper precautions are required. • Minimize Waste: Dispose of debris responsibly to reduce environmental impact. • Prevent Fires: Adhere to fire safety protocols, especially during dry seasons. 10. Continuous Learning The logging industry is ever-evolving, with new techniques and technologies constantly emerging. New employees should: • Seek Mentorship: Learn from experienced workers to develop practical skills and insights. • Attend Training Programs: Participate in workshops and programs to enhance knowledge, such as attending the Annual AOL Safety Conference. • Stay Updated: Regularly review industry guidelines and updates to stay compliant and safe by reviewing the monthly safety topics and pre-work meetings, becoming familiar with Oregon OSHA rules in Division 7, and regular check-ins with supervisors. Conclusion Starting a career in the logging industry— and hiring a new employee with the company—requires a commitment to safety, learning, and teamwork. By training and mentoring a new employee to understand the fundamental principles, each new employee can contribute to a safer and more efficient work environment for the whole crew. The “Yarding and Loading Handbook” serves as an invaluable resource, offering detailed guidance to navigate the complexities of logging. Through dedication and adherence to best practices, trainees can succeed while ensuring their well-being and that of their co-workers. t Article Reference Oregon OSHA Yarding and Loading Handbook: https://osha.oregon.gov/OSHApubs/1935.pdf
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