This article was originally posted at some time between 2015 and September, 2020. It is being re-posted now as part of our website reconstruction. Some of the dates mentioned in this article may reference the time period from which it was originally posted.
Chainsaw video
A friend sent me the video above. While it’s intended to be entertaining (and it is), it’s also a great reminder of some of the most serious hazards we see in any industry. It’s also a lesson on the importance of knowing and accepting your own limitations. When it comes to tree trimming, felling trees or doing anything with a chainsaw, it’s usually best to call a professional.
Tree trimming and felling create hazards like severe lacerations and amputations from contact with chain saw, but that’s just the start. There’s also falls from ladders and trees, struck by falling/swinging tree limbs, electrical hazards from contact with overhead power lines, insect bites and stings including tick-borne illness, hearing loss, heat stress and fire prevention.
One of the most poorly applied OSHA regulations is the logging standard 29 CFR1910.266. Employers often overlook this rule because they think it applies only to logging companies, but look no further than paragraph (b)(1) which reads in part; “This standard establishes safety practices, means, methods and operations for all types of logging, regardless of the end use of the wood.”. In other words, if your employees use a chainsaw to fell trees for any reason, perhaps even storm clean up, you MIGHT be covered by the OSHA logging regulation. There is an ANSI standard on tree trimming that OSHA may also enforce when they can’t/won’t enforce the logging standard.
Two of the most important requirements of the logging standard include safety training for all covered employees on proper work techniques, etc., and first aid training. Proper selection and use of PPE is also critical, as the regulation calls out several specific requirements.
Don’t forget to include all the related exposures in your OSHA safety training on Right to Know and Hazard Communication (heat, noise, gasoline, insect bites/stings, wood dust, etc.). Also, be sure to address the PPE requirements of logging in your PPE hazard assessment form, and PPE safety training! As usual, please call Sotera Consulting, LLC at 612 597 6463 if you have questions.