Updates to the Forest Safety Code of Practice come into effect in Tasmania

Updates to the Forest Safety Code of Practice Come Into Effect in Tasmania

The Tasmanian Government has released an updated code of practice to help improve safety for people working in the forestry industry. This revised code of practice gives forest managers, contractors and workers clearer guidance on managing risks across daily operations.

The new Forest Safety Code (Tasmania) 2021 came into effect on Wednesday, 2 March 2022, replacing earlier guidance material with standards that better reflect current forestry practices.

An Industry-Driven Update

Minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs Elise Archer said this was an industry-driven project, with WorkSafe Tasmania providing advice and assistance throughout development.

"The revised Code has been updated, aligned with contemporary legislation and national guidance materials, and modernised to reflect current technology and industry practices," Minister Archer said.

"The Code was developed through a comprehensive process which included expert review and multiple rounds of industry consultation with forest managers, forest contractors, training providers, forest workers and their representatives," Minister Archer added.

Reflecting Modern Industry Practices

Minister for Resources Guy Barnett thanked Private Forests Tasmania for developing the updated code of practice.

"Like many industries, forestry continues to adapt and implement new activities and technology to ensure best practice, and this is now reflected in the Code," Minister Barnett said.

"This new Code of practice will provide practical guidance on managing health and safety risks associated with forestry work and how to achieve the standards required under work health and safety laws," Minister Barnett said.

Why This Matters for Forestry Operations

Forestry remains one of the more hazardous sectors, with hazards ranging from falling timber and machinery incidents through to bushfire exposure during high-risk seasons. Strong compliance with updated safety standards helps reduce these risks for crews operating in remote or challenging terrain.

Key areas addressed by the updated Code include:

• Health and safety obligations during forest work activities
• Fire management planning and preparedness ahead of fire season
• Compliance requirements aligned with national work health and safety frameworks
• Guidance for private forests operators and contractors on managing on-site risks

Businesses across the forestry industry should review their existing safety management systems against the updated Code to confirm ongoing compliance. Organisations offering safety software services can support this process by helping teams track obligations, document fire safety procedures and manage health records more efficiently.

For related updates on how codes of practice continue evolving across other high-risk industries, see our coverage of the workplace mental health code of practice in Queensland and the waste and recycling industry code of practice.

Employers relying on outdated documentation should also review our Silica Dust Code of Practice update and consider practical tools such as a digital Job Safety Analysis template to strengthen day-to-day compliance across forestry work sites.

Source: Premier of Tasmania website.