Step Change in Managing Manual Tree Falling
FICA is proud to announce a groundbreaking initiative that has received universal support across the industry—leveraging AI and wearable technology to transform the management of manual tree falling.
Addressing the Unseen Risks
Manual tree falling remains one of the most hazardous tasks in forestry. While audits can confirm a faller’s competence, the real challenge lies in what happens when no one is watching—99% of the time. Tragically, many incidents occur when critical safety rules are breached, often by experienced fallers.
Recognising this, FICA has been exploring innovative ways to enhance oversight, safety, and training for fallers working in remote and challenging environments.
The Vision: Real-Time Monitoring and AI Integration
Inspired by conversations with contractors like Nick Tombleson, the proposed solution involves:
Helmet/Body-Mounted Cameras: Forward and top-mounted to capture visual data.
Wearable Biometric Devices: Tracking heart rate, respiration, skin temperature, blood oxygen levels, movement, posture, and fatigue.
AI-Powered Analysis: Interpreting data in real time to detect unsafe behaviours—such as not looking up, skipping escape routes, or deviating from the five-step method—and sending alerts to supervisors.
Hazard Detection: Future extensions could include AI glasses to identify environmental hazards.
This system would not only support real-time monitoring and management but also enhance training and incident investigation—similar to how Autosense has revolutionised safety in trucking.
Connectivity Already in Place
Many contractors are already using localised Starlink setups in forests, making real-time data transmission a viable option.
Next Steps: Collaborative Development
FICA believes the best path forward is a collaborative effort involving select forest owners, FICA members, and manufacturers, similar to the successful SSH initiative.
A meeting is being planned to bring these stakeholders together and chart a course for development. Stay tuned for updates as we move from concept to implementation.
