Step 3

STEP 3 Safety Observation Audits

Periodically each month throughout the first year of employment, the business owner or crew foreman should pick a random time to observe the new employee formally and record his or her safety performance. These unannounced “safety observation audits” should be conducted for 10 to 15-minutes, five or six time times each month, as the “unaware” employee performs his regular work. They can assist in the overall evaluation of the new employee, provide valuable feedback for safety improvement, and confirm the continuing importance the employer places on safety.

Download sample safety observation audit forms for (1) chainsaw operation, (2) skidder operation, and (3) feller-buncher operation (Adobe® Acrobat® Reader required). Loggers are encouraged to develop additional safety check lists as needed to fit the needs of their own unique operation.