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Thrown object hazards in forest operations

Informally Refereed

Abstract

Mechanized equipment for forest operations provide better operator protection in this hazardous work environment. However operators of forestry cutting machines are now exposed to new hazards from the high-energy cutting devices used to cut trees and process logs. Anecdotal reports of thrown objects document a risk of injury and fatality. Two new ISO standards have been developed after a program of basic research by both US and Swedish research organizations. The chainshot hazard may be reduced by implementation of guarding systems that block or divert broken chains. Failed sawteeth are difficult to block at the cutting device and a new standard for protective cab glazing may be the most effective approach. this report describes the research tests and development of the new standards.

Citation

Rummer, R.; Klepac, J. 2011. Thrown object hazards in forest operations. In: Proceedings of the 2011 National Symposium on Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing Health and Safety, June 26-30, Boise, ID. p.1-13.
https://www.fs.usda.gov/research/treesearch/39441