At least 43 people were killed in forestry accidents in Austria’s forests – the shocking result of 2024 and a new record. This corresponds to an increase of 19 percent compared to the 36 accidents the year before.
The number of fatal accidents in forestry has continuously increased in recent years, as KFV media observations show. However, there are regional differences within Austria:
- Styria: 14 cases
- Lower Austria: 10 cases
- Tyrol: 5 cases
- Upper Austria: 5 cases
- Carinthia: 4 cases
- Salzburg: 2 chests
- Vorarlberg: 2 cases
- Vienna: 1 suitcase
Age structure: High risk for the elderly
A significant portion of the victims – around 45 percent – were over 60 years old. This age group often works alone during forestry work, which significantly increases the risk of accidents. Many people involved in accidents underestimate the physical strain and dangers associated with heavy equipment or unexpectedly falling trees.
Furthermore, working alone in remote areas often makes it difficult to quickly rescue people in an emergency. The accident reports show that a large proportion of these cases could have been prevented if preventive measures, such as partner work and safety checks, had been implemented before work began.
- Tree felling work: 24 falls, often caused by trees falling uncontrollably or getting stuck.
- Use of tractors: 7 cases, mainly due to rollover on steep terrain.
- Falls on impassable or icy terrain: 2 cases.
The research area of sports and leisure safety in the prevention institution KFV therefore recommends seasonal training and coordinated work, as well as increased use of safety equipment.
Source: Krone
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