In an effort to reduce the high number of injuries in one of Britain’s most dangerous industries forestry workers from across the north east of Scotland are being encouraged to attend a free event next month.

HSE has again teamed up with the Forestry Commission Learning and Development (previously Forest Training Services) to host the free event on Wednesday 24 March at Bin Forest, Huntly, Aberdeenshire. The day will be dedicated to raising awareness of important health and safety issues specific to the forestry industry.

Developed in partnership with the industry, all those involved in the forest operations should benefit from the day – from forestry work managers to site safety co-ordinators, to those actually carrying out the work.

Experienced trainers will cover issues including hand-arm and whole body vibration, noise, public access, the use of forest forwarders and forestry chainsaw work.

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At these events scenarios are acted out based on situations that have led to serious accidents in the past.

Risks are examined and common sense solutions are identified that can be applied on site. Each event is developed to reflect the type of forestry work taking place in that geographical area.

HSE inspectors will also be present to discuss any issues and to offer general health and safety advice.

Forestry is still one of the most dangerous occupations in Great Britain. Over a ten-year period to 2006, an average of six people a year in the forestry industry were killed at work in Great Britain. It is also estimated that in the same period 6,600 people were injured, many seriously. The odds of someone in forestry or arboriculture being killed or seriously injured in any one year are now estimated to be worse than 1 in 120.

HSE Inspector Jason Liggins commented: "Behind every one of these statistics is a human life that has been ruined or a family that has lost a loved one. Although the risks in forestry cannot be eliminated, they can be managed through taking common sense practical measures.

"We want to work in partnership with the forestry industry to make sure all reasonable precautions are put in place to prevent accidents.

"Previous forestry safety days have been a great success, with those taking part telling us they welcomed the practical knowledge and skills learned, as well as the opportunity to discuss issues with HSE."

(GK/BMcC)