Injuries on mechanized logging operations in the southeastern United States in 2001

A random sample of injuries on mechanized logging operations in the southeastern United States was drawn from the 2001 claims records of four workers compensation Insurance providers. Information was gathered regarding equipment, labor, and operations for each firm reporting an injury. Data were sorted and categorized for analyses. Statistical comparisons were made with results of an earlier (1996) study. Injuries were compared by degree of mechanization and operating location. Results indicated that equipment operators have replaced deckhands/chain saw operators as the most frequently injured crew member, first-year employees continue to be at especially high risk of injury, and significant progress has been made in reducing logging equipment access injuries.