This spring, Okanagan College and Total Physiotherapy in Houston, BC, collaborated on a research project studying preventative strategies for a very common tendinitis affecting tree planters. Tendinitis of the thumb, termed de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, is a frequent early season tree planting injury occurring on the shovel side. Total Physiotherapy has successfully treated de Quervain’s through … Read more
The Province is restricting gun use areas of the Fraser Valley where indiscriminate shooting is damaging habitat and creating serious safety concerns, Simon Gibson, MLA for Abbotsford-Mission, announced today on behalf of Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson. To read more, click here Read more
A 2015 RCMP report recommending the provincial government work with police and local governments by banning target shooting on problem forest service roads in the east parts of the Fraser Valley. The report has become a critical piece on ongoing efforts by the WFCA and local governments reduce risks to the public and forestry workers … Read more
The BC SAFE Forestry Program is recommending forestry employers and workers recognize that the ongoing opioid crisis in British Columbia could possibly show up among our workforce. Some tree planting firms have taken the lead on this already creating awareness programs and internal practices to prevent overdoses and deal with a possible crisis. This excellent … Read more
It would be unwise for forestry contractors to think their workers are exempt from the lethal hazard posed by fentanyl overdoses. At least one forestry firm has reported a work-related opioid death this year. Forestry workers may be particularly vulnerable in an incident given the remote work locations of some camps, available first aid, and … Read more
Planters are reporting that compression sleeves and socks help in reducing worker wear and tear. It may be some time yet before we get work gear woven from spider silk with its remarkable tensile strength and flexibility. (They are working on it) In the meantime high performance athletic fabric is showing some promise in reducing … Read more
Forest Safety Ombudsman Roger Harris says inequitable access to emergency care is a serious problem for injured forest workers as well as all residents of rural British Columbia. He’s recommended our provincial government establish a helicopter emergency service capable of transporting patients to level three trauma centres within an hour. View the full report here. Read more
