Forest Operations > Conduct Skidder Operations > Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Requirements

Cleanliness of the skidder

A clean and well maintained skidder is a safe machine.

• Don’t have tools, or spare parts in the cabin; this could result in a tripping or slipping incident when exiting the cabin. If the machine was to roll over these items could cause serious injury.
• A skidder is less likely to catch fire if it is cleaned of needles/leaves, bark, small branches and other debris regularly. In some forest operations e.g. first thinnings, the skidder may need to be cleaned at the end of a working day.
• Keep windows and lights clean for clear vision.
• If possible wash the skidder on a regular basis. This often highlights maintenance or machine damage issues.

Equipment Checks and Servicing

• Daily pre start-up checks are important for safe operations of the skidder.
• Check all fire extinguishers are fully charged.
• Check the main and park brakes work properly.
• Check two-way radios are operational. 
• Check for loose fittings, bolts, stress fractures/cracks in the chassis or crane; and tyres for inflation or fractures.  These are all issues that can be unsafe.
• Hand rails, steps and walk platforms should be checked for safety.

These are all issues that can be unsafe.

Fig 21 Felling head components

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When complete please follow the instructions of your trainer\assessor or check your answers at the back of the Learner Guide.