Health and Safety
Executive / Commission
Agriculture
A campaign of forestry inspections have just been completed in Scotland, Wales and the North East of England. Although the information gathered by the inspections is still being analysed, standards on site were generally favourable.
However, a number of issues did arise where managers and contractors felt uncertain of their legal and practical roles and responsibilities.
These included lone working of chainsaw operators and working on steep or difficult ground. Guidance on these issues is available in HSE and AFAG leaflets.
Inspectors also identified isolated reports of alleged ill health in some workers involved with handling and planting pesticide-treated tree saplings. A wide range of ill health symptoms were reported by some workers after handling treated plants. These ranged from short-lived symptoms such as a runny nose, or a slight tingling sensation on the skin, to more serious and persistent flu-like symptoms. HSE are currently investigating these incidents and anyone who has had similar experiences should contact Jason Liggins at jason.liggins@hse.gsi.gov.uk or by telephone on 0131 247 2087.
It is important that those managing the planting of pre-treated saplings ensure that all the control measures identified in the risk and COSHH assessments are in place and followed. Further information and advice on good practice can be found in leaflet ‘AFAG 103 – Planting’.