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A mixed‐methods analysis of logging injuries in Montana and Idaho
Author(s) -
Lagerstrom Elise,
Magzamen Sheryl,
Rosecrance John
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
american journal of industrial medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.7
H-Index - 104
eISSN - 1097-0274
pISSN - 0271-3586
DOI - 10.1002/ajim.22759
Subject(s) - logging , felling , medicine , occupational safety and health , focus group , work (physics) , workers' compensation , truck , human factors and ergonomics , injury prevention , poison control , environmental health , operations management , forestry , forensic engineering , compensation (psychology) , engineering , business , geography , marketing , mechanical engineering , psychology , pathology , aerospace engineering , psychoanalysis
Background Despite advances in mechanization, logging continues to be one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Logging in the Intermountain West region (Montana and Idaho) is especially hazardous due to steep terrain, extreme weather, and remote work locations. Methods We implemented a mixed‐methods approach combining analyses of workers’ compensation claims and focus groups to identify factors associated with injuries and fatalities in the logging industry. Results Inexperienced workers (>6 months experience) accounted for over 25% of claims. Sprain/strain injuries were the most common, accounting for 36% of claims, while fatalities had the highest median claim cost ($274 411). Focus groups identified job tasks involving felling trees, skidding, and truck driving as having highest risk. Conclusions Injury prevention efforts should focus on training related to safe work methods (especially for inexperienced workers), the development of a safety culture and safety leadership, as well as implementation of engineering controls.