Using winches for hang-ups and vehicle debogging

This technical guide allows hung-up trees to be brought down safely using winches.

The Forestry Commission gives advice on the use of winches in logging operations. Winches appear very easy to use, but the forces that they generate need to be understood and there are certain techniques which must be considered. This technical note, titled “Winching operations in forestry: Tree takedown and vehicle debogging”, aims to provide operators with an appreciation of the forces encountered and best practice from a safety perspective. It focusses on static hand or vehicle mounted mechanised winches.

The guide provides a good overview of the principle safety considerations when carrying out these winching operations. It then goes into some detail to explain, as practically as possible, the forces generated in winching systems. This includes increasing the winching force by the use of blocks, the effect of angles of pull on forces, the effect of friction on pulling forces, the calculation of forces in systems and the calculation of the forces required. The selection and maintenance of winches and other equipment is discussed, with a focus on the equipment description, considerations, advantages, disadvantages and constraints. Safe working loads, safety factors, fail-safe systems, and the care, maintenance and inspection of equipment are included. Final aspects covered are the selection and use of anchor and fixing points, the identification of safe working positions, training requirements and personal protective equipment (PPE). The guide was compiled by Duncan Ireland, and can be downloaded at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fctg001.pdf/$FILE/fctg001.pdf