The number of fatal forestry accidents in Austria has again reached a record high. Before the end of the year, 38 people died during forest work, the Executive Board for Road Safety (KFV) announced on Wednesday.
This number could increase by the end of the year. By comparison, 36 people died the entire year before.
Many victims are over 60 years old
The ages of the affected victims ranged between 18 and 82 years. What is striking, however, is the high proportion of people over sixty. Although the elderly have a lot of experience working in the forest, they often underestimate the physical strain. Another source of danger is the fact that workers are often alone in the forest. In the event of an emergency, there is therefore a delay in first aid measures.
The number of forest fatalities has increased almost every year recently. In 2019 there were approximately 27 victims. There are especially many incidents in Styria and Lower Austria – there are large forest areas and steep terrain formations. These conditions significantly increase the risk of forestry operations.
KFV advocates better information from private individuals
“Fatal accidents usually occur in situations where trees unexpectedly fall or become stuck during felling or clearing work,” says Johanna Trauner-Karner from KFV.
But according to Trauner-Karner, working with heavy machinery can also become a fatal trap, for example if a tractor falls over on impassable terrain.
Source: Krone
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