Chainsaw operator meetings - November 2024

Presentation and discussion roundup

The chainsaw working group recently held two online open forums, hearing from operators and those with an interest in chainsaw safety. Thanks to the 48 attendees over the two events, joining discussions on chainsaw safety; event discussion saw some dominant themes emerging.

The introductory slides providing an overview of the Working Group, it’s structure, members, work to date, and priorities going forward are available below.

Over the two sessions, FISA’s commitment to worker safety was reiterated. The key known risk factors for chainsaw operators were highlighted, primarily being struck by the tree or parts of the tree. Questions and discussion were dominated by training, certification, refreshers, and finding a standardised approach to logbooks or competence recording; to help with the latter, FISA have published templates here.

Gaps were identified in training that prepares operators for realistic site conditions and the challenging environments they can bring, highlighting the need for more structured consolidation and CPD. So too the need for clear pathways for upskilling and refresher training, as well as some confusion around standards, certification, and awarding bodies. We’ll aim to support understanding along with key industry bodies into 2025.

We discussed non-technical skills and their importance in supporting safe work. These include teamwork, communication, situational awareness, decision making, and fatigue management which all go towards supporting good technical competence. Aberdeen University’s Applied Psychology and Human Factors Group have published their chainsaw specific research in this field, which may be of interest for further reading.

There were concerns around inconsistency of work, production time pressures, chasing payments, and worker stress affecting safety. These factors, particularly stress and fatigue, are known contributors to accidents and something we’re keen to understand more about.

There was also desire for more case studies and sharing of best practices from real-world and learned experiences, which is a positive step we can take and can explore ways to share and promote these in 2025.

Despite known and emerging issues, what has always been consistent from these sessions and other discussions throughout the year, is the common desire to improve and maintain chainsaw safety. Going into 2025 we intend to hold more of these meetings to update on progress and guide our priorities, and we look forward to seeing you there.

Andy Sloss
FISA Chainsaw Working Group Chair