Logging, forestry or timbering work pays well in part because the work is demanding and dangerous. Workers often come home exhausted due to the physical demands of their employment, and they are at risk of severe injury and death.
Timbering work is one of the deadliest professions in the United States. It also produces injuries that may force professionals to change their careers or retire early because of permanent functional limitations.
The exact role a timber professional performs on a job site influences what risks they have on the job. However, there are three types of serious injuries that are relatively common among those in the logging or forestry sector.
Traumatic amputations
Many timber workers regularly use chainsaws. Chainsaws are one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment professionals handle for work. All it takes is a minor mistake for a worker to inflict debilitating injuries on themselves or someone nearby. An accidental amputation could occur at a timbering site with tragic consequences. The loss of a limb or extremity could force someone to change their profession. The injury may leave the worker with debilitating symptoms and a lifetime of increased medical costs.
Traumatic brain injuries
Moving equipment and falling trees are both very hazardous for workers. A sudden gust of wind might result in a tree falling in a different direction than workers anticipate. Someone working up in a tree might drop a tool or a branch on workers below. Even with head protection, those working timbering jobs are at risk of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The symptoms of a TBI can include motor function challenges and cognitive changes that affect the worker’s career and personality.
Spinal cord injuries
Falling objects and contact with equipment can cause injuries to the neck, back and spine. Workers in the timbering sector could develop complete or incomplete spinal cord injuries due to contact with equipment or trees. Those injuries can cause lifetime functional limitations and massive medical expenses.
In many cases, workers’ compensation benefits can help logging and timbering professionals hurt on the job. They can qualify for medical coverage for their care costs and disability benefits if they cannot work or must change careers. Understanding the long-term implications of severe injuries can motivate workers to pursue benefits after a work incident.