16/01/2024

Log splitter - safe handling

Forst

For thousands of years, humans have used the renewable energy of wood for heating. Combustion technology has improved significantly, but splitting wood and cutting logs short are still important steps in the process.

During forestry work, the healthy cutting of brown logs often results in meter-long logs that can be used for firewood. Tractor-mounted log splitters are often used in the forest to split and store the meter-long logs directly in the forest for forest conservation reasons.

For years now, due to machinery safety regulations, you have only been able to buy splitters that ensure that you cannot reach into the splitting area. This is usually ensured by two-hand operation. Both hands must pull the release levers at the same time. This two-hand operation is very reliable. The argument that crookedly cut meter-long pieces fall over before splitting because you don't have a free hand to hold them has been refuted by several machine manufacturers with various additional devices. There are many suitable precautions on the market, from angled splitting wedges that clamp the log, to a pointed mandrel, to split splitting wedges that fix the log in place in the first pass and only then split it with pressure. A warning should be given against the bad habit of converting a two-hand control to one-hand operation by using various brackets. If you intentionally disable a safety device, you must be aware of the legal consequences in the event of an accident, especially if third parties are involved.

Cone splitters pose an extreme risk of accidents. Clothing often becomes entangled in the cone, resulting in serious and often fatal accidents. Even the presence of an emergency stop bar often fails to protect against accidents. This outdated technology of cone splitters should therefore be abandoned and these dangerous machines replaced with another type of wood splitting.

New technology has also significantly reduced the number of accidents with short log splitters. With older models, the splitting process was triggered by a foot pedal. However, after several hours of work, the body's attention span diminishes, and routine causes movements to become automated. Usually, a brief moment of distraction is enough for the foot to automatically press the splitting wedge trigger while the hand is still under the wedge.

Avoiding accidents through two-handed operation

The most effective way to prevent accidents is therefore a technical solution. Practical two-handed operation not only makes work easier but also minimizes the risk of accidents. A look at accident statistics reveals that most accidents occur around 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Upon closer examination, many of those affected report that the accident occurred during the last few pieces of work, just before they were finished. Regular, deliberate break planning is therefore important for occupational safety. Alternating activities also prevents monotonous work and contributes to safety.

The possibility of producing logs using automatic splitters should also be mentioned. Whole logs are fed into the enclosed splitter, usually by machine power. The wood is cut to short lengths and split into several logs using a splitting ring. The machine is locked and operated from the outside. To prevent accidents, the machine is shut off by a contact switch when the protective cover is opened. The short logs are usually transported to a dump truck by conveyor fire, allowing safe and energy-saving operation.

What should be considered when producing wood chips?

While log heating was previously the most common method, many farms now heat with wood chips. With modern chipping machines equipped with cranes, accidents involving wood chips are rare, as people are no longer in the direct danger zone. However, the greatest health risks associated with wood chips are dust and noise. Wood-decaying fungi multiply in damp, chopped wood chips, and their spores pose a serious health risk if inhaled. When handling dusty, mold-infested wood chips, it is essential to wear a dust mask. Closed tractor cabs also reduce dust exposure. However, it is better to chop dry wood straight away, as it is less likely to be colonized by fungi and also has a higher calorific value. The best option is to split the wood and dry it in cross piles in sunny, windy locations over the summer, before chipping it in the fall.

Using wood for energy makes an important contribution to our environment. With the right technology, modern, safe machinery, and ergonomic work design, firewood remains one of the most environmentally friendly and modern forms of energy generation today and should continue to be used with a clear conscience in the future.

You can find all products on this topic here: Log splitter!