Fatal Incident at Timber Yard: Worker Struck by Log in February 2023

Introduction

A serious accident occurred at a timber yard in February 2023, where a worker was fatally injured after being struck by a log. The incident involved the worker taking a shortcut through a hazardous area while investigating smoke from a debarking machine.

Details of the Incident

Preliminary investigations suggest the worker was responding to an issue with the control area of a debarker machine when he was hit by a log moving down the discharge ramp. The worker sustained fatal injuries as a result. It’s important to note that these findings are provisional, and further investigation into the exact cause of the incident is ongoing.

Operational Context

Fixed plant machinery, like the log debarking machine involved in this incident, often includes various moving parts that pose risks such as crushing, shearing, entrapment, and projectile hazards. Workers engaging in operations, maintenance, and other tasks around such machinery are at increased risk of serious injury or fatality.