Forestry operations:

Returning to work after an extended time off

Keeping safety in mind is crucial as everyone returns to work. All owners, prime contractors, employers, supervisors, and workers must follow accepted safe work procedures.

Worksites must comply with all applicable parts of the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. Everyone on a worksite must know their responsibilities and follow the safety principles of planning, training, supervision, and workmanship listed below. Planning Review logging plans to make sure all planned work processes are considered. Conduct risk assessments when changes are planned. Follow up on changes to plans to make sure they work.

Training

• New workers must receive training to recognize all hazards.
• Returning workers must be made aware of changing hazards.
• Workers relocated to other workplaces must be made aware of hazards specific to those workplaces.

Supervision

• A qualified supervisor must be on site or reasonably available to the worksite.
• Supervisors must hold on-site safety meetings and must ensure all hazards are identified and eliminated/mitigated.
• Supervisors must conduct regular inspections and correct unsafe conditions.

Workmanship

• All workers must have knowledge, training, and experience to recognize all hazards.
• All workers must follow safe work procedures.
• Workers must report unsafe conditions and acts to supervisors.

Documentation of all safety activities specific to your worksite should be accurate and meaningful.

Remember that we are collectively and individually responsible for the safety of all workers and all worksites.