A Tower Inspectors Workshop brought together virtually all active tower inspectors, along with representatives from CBIP, WorkSafe, ThinkSafe and Safetree. Hosted by FICA in Wellington it aimed to improve safety, make the tower certification process easier and more efficient for forestry contractors.
FICA’s role is to bring inspectors, contractors and industry stakeholders together. The focus is on making the process more efficient, reducing uncertainty and ensuring certification requirements remain practical and fit for purpose.
Workshop topics covered included cab certification, tower modifications, certification processes, use of the ThinkSafe Tower App and opportunities to improve consistency across inspections.
One of the strongest themes to emerge from the workshop was the willingness of inspectors to share their knowledge and experience for the benefit of the wider industry. The collaborative approach taken by all attendees reinforced the professionalism and expertise that exists within New Zealand’s tower inspection community.
PRACTICAL ACTIONS AGREED INCLUDE:
Developing a central knowledge database for different tower makes and models
Establishing a working group to improve the ThinkSafe tower app
Introducing app reminders for annual recertifications and open certifications approaching the 28-day limit
Consulting on a proposal to standardise cab certification requirements
Progressing discussions on future CPEng certification requirements for tower modifications
A number of other issues were also identified for further work, including SSH winch and hitch certification, machine operation outside manufacturer specifications, skyline tension monitoring and certification requirements for machines operating without guy ropes.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CONTRACTORS
Greater consistency between inspectors
More efficient inspections through better access to machine information
Improved certification reminders and record keeping
Clearer guidance on modifications and certification requirements
Reduced compliance frustrations and greater certainty for contractors
PASSION, KNOWLEDGE, COMMITMENT
“The passion, knowledge and commitment in the room was incredibly impressive. There was a genuine desire from everyone involved to improve consistency, share information and ultimately improve safety outcomes across the industry,” says FICA CEO Rowan Struthers.
“Ultimately, the workshop was about improving safety while making the certification process easier and more efficient for forestry contractors.”
Given the success of the event, attendees unanimously supported making the workshop a biennial event, with FICA planning to reconvene the group in 2028.
