Background: Timber cutting is one of the most dangerous occupations. In 1997 in the United States, it resulted in a fatality rate more than 27 times greater than the average for all occupations. In addition to logging, residents of northern and central Wisconsin sometimes have secondary occupations relating to forest activities, such as obtaining wood products for purposes such as firewood, Christmas trees or wreaths.
Objective: to describe the spectrum of injuries related to logging and forestry-related occupations and the associated risk factors.
Methods: to work with Emergency and Urgent Care Departments at 14 different sites in northern and central Wisconsin to identify individuals with logging or forestry-related injuries, and to conduct a follow-up telephone survey to determine number and types of injuries, possible causes, and characteristics of the injured.
Results: The number and types of injuries related to logging and forestry activities over a time period of 18 months were estimated for a portion of central and northern Wisconsin. The possibility of the misuse or lack of use of safety equipment and personal protective gear was explored.
Conclusions: These exploratory data will help researchers more fully understand the extent of logging and forestry-related injuries and the associated risk factors. These data may be useful in designing interventions to reduce injury.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Identify the number and types of injuries related to logging and forestry activities that occurred over a time period of 18 months in a portion of central and northern Wisconsin. 2. Recognize the associated risk factors of logging and forestry-related activities. 3. Describe the misuse or lack of use of safety equipment and personal protective gear while engaged in logging or forestry-related activities.
Keywords: Occupational Injury and Death, Surveillance
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.