The Queensland Government has developed new guidelines to help protect the state's 20,000 timber workers and reduce workplace injuries in the industry. '

Industrial Relations Minister Cameron Dick launched the Sawmilling Industry Health and Safety Guide at a timber industry safety workshop today.

"More than 20,000 Queenslanders and their families depend on the timber industry for their livelihood. But working with chainsaws, rolling logs, chippers, heavy machinery and the like, often at height or in confined spaces, can be dangerous work,” he said.

"Historically, the timber industry has been one of the state's most dangerous, with higher-than-average injury rates.

Mr Dick said the guide highlighted safety issues involved in the industry such as the use of chain saws, docking saws, conveyors, cranes, heavy machinery and plant, power tools, ladders, scaffolding and fire pits.

He said it also contained tips for operating safely in dangerous working conditions such as working at height, working in confined spaces and working with hazardous substances.

"The guide includes safety surveys and checklists, contacts, information on what to do in an emergency and advice on what your obligations are under the Workplace Health and Safety Act 1995," Mr Dick said.

Mr Dick said the guide was a tangible reminder of the commitment from workers, the government and industry organisations to making the timber industry safer.

Copies of the guide are available at www.worksafe.qld.gov.au or from the Workplace Health and Safety Infoline on 1300 369 915.

Architecture & Design Team

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