BACKGROUND: The operator of a stroke-type delimber in the Northeast was conducting maintenance to his machine on the log landing. Stroke-type delimbers require periodic sharpening of knives in the field due to normal wear. Standard practice is to use a power grinder. The operator had lowered the tip of the boom on to a block of wood close to ground level. It was a clear, mild spring day. Weather conditions were not a factor.
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: The operator had 12 years of experience and was considered well qualified to operate and maintain his machine.
UNSAFE ACT OR CONDITION: Due to the location of the boom tip on a block of wood, the operator had to bend down to sharpen the knife with the grinder, making it difficult to control the grinder safely.
ACCIDENT: As the tip of the grinder wheel came into contact with the delimber head, the grinder kicked sideways violently, striking the left thigh of the operator.
INJURY: The operator suffered a severe laceration of the top of his left thigh muscle. An ambulance was summoned. A skidder operator transported the injured man out of the woods and met the ambulance which transported him to the hospital. The operator was out of work for one month.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CORRECTION: Before sharpening knives, the delimber head should be placed on a stable support at a working height which allows safe, controlled use of the grinder. Leg protection may be appropriate for this type of maintenance operation.
Courtesy of the Forest Resources Association: https://www.forestresources.org/