Managerial and operational characteristics of safety successful' logging contractors

Abstract

Experience has shown that certain logging contractors are effective in promoting safety and maintaining low injury rates on their jobs. Interviews with 26 «safety successful» contractors in the eastern United States indicated that these contractors had several key characteristics in common that made their operations safer. They were effective people managers who 1) were able to keep crew turnover to a minimum and maintain a stable crew: 2) hired primarly experienced woods workers; 3) had highly mechanized operations; 4) promoted teamwork; 5) insisted on mandatory use of personal protective equipment; and 6) demonstrated a strong management commitment and safety-conscious attitude