Safety Bulletins

Use of winch diggers – OPS, FOPS and ROPS

FISA had a recent enquiry about the requirements for Operator Protection System (OPS), Falling Objects Protection System (FOPS), and Roll Over Protective System (ROPS) when using a remote controlled winch attached to an excavator.

Inspection of Work Equipment & Machines

FISA Technical Note 003

This Technical Note will only focus on the requirements in relation to inspection of equipment and machines. But it is the responsibility of the employer to familiarise themselves with the other elements of Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) / Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998) (LOLER).

It has been written to highlight the requirements for inspection of machines and work equipment used within forestry. We hope to increase the knowledge of the reader and provide examples of recording inspections. This will not be an exhaustive list but enable you to gain an understanding of the requirements and provide reference for further reading.

January 2023 - Chainsaw PUWER Checklist added.

December 2022 - sample machine daily and weekly inspection records now available which can be adapted to your own situation.

 

Guide to PUWER regulations

This leaflet provides information about the legal requirements of the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) which came into force on 5 December 1998.

Guide to LOLER regulations

The new guide covers the equipment that is subject to LOLER and gives updated references to legislation and links to further guidance.

Latest Bulletins

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome

If you drive any type of vehicle for your living, or have responsibility for others that drive, you should ensure you are aware of the condition known as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome (OSAS).
More associated with HGV drivers who are driving long distances, the condition can also affect others who drive for long stints during the day too, such as harvester and forwarder drivers.

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