Timber Safe

Background (problem)

• 2013 fatal work injuries in forestry and logging were the highest since 2008.
• West Virginia loggers are more than twice as likely to be fatally injured on the job as loggers across the US.
• West Virginia loggers and owners participate in a required statewide logger best practices program.
• A very small portion of this training addresses worker safety.
• One employee per company is required to attend the training.
• There is no evidence that the safety information makes it back to the worksite.

Program Overview

• Funded by NIOSH and SouthEast Center for Agricultural Health and Injury Prevention (University of KY).
• WVU Safety and Health Extension overseers
• 15 Phase I and 15 Phase II logging companies to be recruited.

Timber Safe Program Overview

• A logging safety management program based on a proven method that reduces hazards on the worksite.
• Will enhance current safety and health management systems
• Includes a full circle approach that measures the hazards controlled on the work site over time
• Provides feedback to logger to correct or control hazards

Timber Safe Program Elements

• A company safety program that meets Timber-Safe requirements
• Train all employees and owners (4 hours)
• Responsibilities for on-site supervisor
• Be available for audits of jobsites by WVU.

WVU Duties

• Conduct training
• Conduct work site audits once every 9 weeks on mobile device
• Provide audit feedback and suggested corrections
• Market the contractors to potential clients, region, insurers.
• Assist contractors in safety needs (consultation)

Logging Site Audits – Timber Safe App

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