2020 saw a delay in providing LSWC safety workshops and job site evaluations as a result of COVID-19 related cancellations and travel restrictions. Work was able to continue on development of Vermont specific materials for several safety training workshops under contract with the Trust to Conserve Northeast Forestlands and the Master Logger Program. Materials have now been finalized and the revised curriculum will be presented during future workshops.
In the fall, two in-person
Forest Operations Supervisor: Supervising for Safety workshops were held, following all COVID-19 guidance which significantly restricted attendance. A total of 18 individuals from 14 companies completed the training. In addition, job site safety evaluations were conducted for 7 companies (21 individuals) that met training requirements in 2019 before tightened travel restrictions halted the visits. Final certifications are pending but it is anticipated that final "Safety Certified" status will be confirmed early in 2021 for those that were successfully evaluated.
Tentative planning is underway to hold Introduction to Mechanized Logger Safety, Advanced Logger Safety and Game of Logging classes during 2021; COVID Guidelines permitting. Watch for updates later this winter.
Information and resources related to the LSWC Program, and Workers’ Compensation Insurance in general, geared to loggers, foresters and landowners can be found at:
https://fpr.vermont.gov/vermont-logger-safety-and-workers-compensation-insurance-program or by calling or emailing Paul Frederick, Forest Economy Program, at (802) 777-5247 or
paul.frederick@vermont.gov.
