Removing Skidder Tire Causes Back Strain

BACKGROUND: A skidder operator in the Lake States was skidding hardwood logs when his tire went flat. A repairman arrived on the site to replace the deflated skidder tire.

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTIC: The skidder operator was 22 years old and was not trained in the handling of heavy skidder tires.

UNSAFE ACT OR CONDITION: After removal of the lug nuts on the tire, the skidder operator tried to remove the skidder tire without the help of the repairman.

ACCIDENT: The skidder operator could not sustain the lift and experienced severe pain in his lower back.

INJURY: The operator strained muscles in his back.

RECOMENDTION FOR CORRECTIONS: This young operator was untrained in the aspects of skidder repair. He should have worked with the repairman to remove the tire safely. Proper training and better supervision could have prevented this injury.

Courtesy of the Forest Resources Association: forestresources.org

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