Logging Workers

Logging workers typically do the following: • Cut down trees using mechanical equipment or chain saws • Operate machinery that moves logs • Shear trees and cut logs into desired lengths • Separate logs by species and type of wood and load them onto trucks • Grade logs according to characteristics such as knot size and straightness • Inspect equipment for safety and perform basic maintenance, as needed • Logging crews cut down trees and prepare them for transportation and eventual commercial use. The following are examples of types of logging workers: • Fallerscut down trees with hand-held power chain saws. • They assess where they want a tree to fall and then determine the position, dimension, and depth of cuts to make. • After cutting down the tree, a faller may cut off the top using hand-held power chain saws or other tools. • Fallers typically work as part of logging operations where the terrain is inaccessible to large logging equipment. • Logging equipment operatorsuse tree harvesters, or feller bunchers, to fell trees, shear off tree limbs, and cut trees into desired lengths. • They drive tractors and operate self-propelled machines called skidders or forwarders, which drag or otherwise transport logs to a loading area. • They also operate log loaders to sort and load logs onto trucks for transportation offsite. • In addition, they may tend machines that chip up logs. • Log graders and scalersinspect logs for defects and measure the logs to determine their volume. • They also estimate the value of logs or pulpwood. • These workers often use hand-held data collection devices into which they enter data about trees. • Other logging workersmay set up cable systems to move felled trees or use hand-held power chain saws and other tools to remove branches or bark from trees.