Many jobs that pay well also pose high risks. We know that electricians, road workers and construction workers take their lives in their hands daily when encountering challenges posed at any number of job sites and in any number of variable conditions. Electrocution accidents are among the highest of risks, killing and severely disfiguring those in the field. Road workers risk their lives when they deal with erratic drivers and dangerous road conditions as they strive to make our roads better and improve town conditions. But what about the workers we don’t often recognize? Those who are loggers and ice truckers face conditions and situations that many of us cannot even imagine. We know it must be dangerous to saw down trees the size of buildings, or drive in road conditions that are extremely icy, but what are the distinct risks that those jobs pose, and how many are actually injured when doing so?
It goes without saying that those working in high risk jobs like the logging and trucking industry continue to put themselves at higher risk for injury or death of proper equipment is not used and safety precautions are not followed. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, deaths among those in the logging industry increased from 59 percent in 2010, from the previous year’s 39 percent. A high percentage of loggers die from falling or flying objects, or from being caught in or between objects like trees, logs, snags or limbs. Loggers are crushed to death by falling trees, despite shouted warnings from coworkers. What could have been done to prevent these injuries and deaths?
- All workers should check for loose bark, broken limbs or other fallen trees that may be lodged or balanced on the tree that is set to be cut down.
- Keep a safe distance between trees that are being cut, and never position yourself between two trees.
- Only begin work when safe weather conditions permit that there will be no added risks to the situation.
- Train workers appropriately on proper tree felling techniques.
- Create clear paths for removal without having to maneuver equipment, fallen trees or other debris.
- Enlist the use of proper seat belts and suspensions on equipment that will be used to cut the tree.
- Wear protective gear like eye guards, helmets and foot protection.
While the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health work diligently to provide and promote training resources to those in the logging and other high risk industries, there will still be some instances where safe conditions are lacking. If you or someone you know has been injured or died due to a work related accident or other incident, dealing with large corporations can be daunting as steps are taken toward a resolution. A New York law firm renowned for handing and settling in personal injury cases will be the first place to start.