Forest Operations > Conduct Skidder Operations > Factors Affecting the Use of Skidders Systems

Factors Affecting the Use of Skidders Systems

Health hazards

You need to be aware that there are a number of health hazards that need to be taken into consideration when operating skidders such as:

Occupational Overuse Syndrome

• Use the correct techniques when operating machines or equipment.
• If operating a machine, adjust the seat (and controls) to suit you.
• Ensure all equipment is well maintained and working effectively.
• Use pre-work warm up and stretching techniques throughout the day to avoid muscle cramping or stiffness.
• Perform other tasks (off the machine) that will exercise different muscle groups.

Fatigue (mental and physical)

• Build short frequent rest breaks into your day.
• Take at least two evenly spaced 30-minute rest breaks during the working day.

Dehydration or heat exhaustion

• Regularly drink fluids so that you do not feel thirsty during the day.
• Do not drink fluids, such as soft drinks and cordials, which have more than 8% carbohydrate content.
• Drink high carbohydrate drinks after work to replace energy levels.
• Drink plenty of water at night to recharge the body.
• Ensure that the air conditioning unit works effectively.

Lack of sleep, tiredness

• Ensure that you have at least 5 hours continuous sleep every day.
• Use power-naps (short sleeps of 20-30 minutes duration).  

Early starts

• When you first beginning early starts, your body needs time to adjust to changes in sleep patterns. You may be tired until your body adjusts.
• Learn to go to bed earlier to replace the sleep you lose in the morning.
• Also allow time for your body to adjust once you go back to late starts.

Poor hygiene/infection

• Clean and dress any cuts or scratches as soon as possible and keep them covered.
• Make sure the First Aid kit is kept fully stocked.
• Eat a balanced diet to keep your body healthy.

Alcohol abuse

• Avoid drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before carrying out machine operations or any hard physical work.

Vibration from machine

• Avoid sudden impact or jarring while operating a machine.
• Reduce the time your back is exposed to vibration by getting out of the machine at least once every hour.
• Make sure the seat and controls are adjusted correctly.
• Do exercises while seated to even out pressure on your spinal discs.
• Keep a good posture.
• Keep physically fit.

Drugs

• Avoid all non-prescription drugs; they can seriously affect both your mental and physical ability to work.
• Inform your employer if you are on any medication that may affect your work, stay home if necessary.
• If you are on long term medication inform your employer and crew of your condition in case you are involved in an emergency at work.

Noise

• Use hearing protection if noise level is above 85dB.
• Reduce noise exposure while in a machine by keeping doors and windows shut while working.
• Ensure the exhaust system is in good working condition.
• When operating the feller buncher, faulty exhaust systems may exceed the recommended level for an eight hour work period. 

Refer to graph in Hazard and Risk Management Process section, (OH&S) resource for some noise level examples;
people can be exposed to in day to day activities.