Forestry injury only a week after review released

A man was flown to Tauranga Hospital after being crushed in a forestry accident on Matakana Island yesterday.

The 60-year-old man was flown to hospital by the Trustpower TECT Rescue Helicopter, when it was called to the island at 8.15am.

The forestry worker was crushed by a falling tree, suffering a severe lower leg injury.

Poor weather conditions meant the helicopter landed on the beach and the paramedics were driven to the scene by 4WD, where he was treated at the scene before being taken to hospital.

The man was in a stable condition at the hospital last night.

Last week a Independent Forestry Safety Review Panel's public consultation document was released, and welcomed by Labour Minister and Tauranga MP Simon Bridges.

"We know that there is an unacceptable level of death and serious injury in the forestry sector, with 67 fatalities since 2000 and the highest rate of serious harm on a per worker basis," Mr Bridges said.

"It's important that the forestry industry has taken ownership of the issue as enduring safety solutions cannot be made by Government alone.

"Their independent review is far-ranging and I encourage stakeholders and the public to have their say on the consultation document.

"In the meantime, WorkSafe NZ's proactive enforcement approach in the forestry sector continues. Since August last year, almost 300 enforcement actions have been taken, including 25 partial or full shutdowns due to imminent danger of serious injury or death.
There are also two prosecutions underway."

WorkSafe NZ completed visits to 32 forestry owners/principals around the country and was reviewing the Approved Code of Practice for forestry safety in order to clarify what is expected from forest owners, managers and operators under the law.

"Progress is being made but the Government cannot make the necessary sustainable change alone, which is why the independent review is essential. The Government will seriously consider the recommendations of the review once it is completed," Mr Bridges said.