Felling techniques in Australian hardwood forests

Summary

The felling techniques used by a sample of fallers in south-eastern Australian hardwood forests are compared with those recommended in commonly available felling texts. On this basis, the techniques used by the fallers were deficient in that small-angled scarfs were used, the scarf was generally overcut and the fallers did not use escape routes effectively.

The fallers studied had not received formal training. Such training would be useful in improving their skills and reducing the serious accident rate. A major difference between the safety practices of fallers in sawlog-only and pulpwood harvesting was noted. Training in first aid and improvement in communication are also suggested as ways of reducing the severity of injuries.