The refreshed 2019 FISA Guidance on Managing Health & Safety in Forestry (GMHSF), is now available to the UK forestry industry.

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.

Forestry pesticide users do need to be suitably trained and certified.

A short guide to the law and your responsibilities when supplying machinery for use at work.
 

The FISA Plant & Equipment Working Group met in July 2019 where the subject of lifting during machine maintenance and repair was discussed with the HSE. 

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.

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.

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