Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Uluslararası Avrasya Sosyal Bilimler Dergisi, cilt.15, sa.57, ss.1239-1258, 2024 (Hakemli Dergi)
This study provides a comprehensive review of the occupational health and safety (OHS) practices in the forestry sector in Turkey, highlighting the current trends, challenges, and improvements over recent years. Forestry work, known for its high-risk environment, involves various hazards, including machinery use, falling trees, and uneven terrain, which pose significant risks to workers' health and safety. This review synthesizes findings from various studies, reports, and regulations to present an overarching view of the OHS landscape in Turkish forestry. The paper begins by outlining the fundamental characteristics of the forestry sector in Turkey, including the types of forestry activities and the typical working conditions. It then delves into the specific occupational hazards faced by forestry workers and the implications of these risks for their health and safety. The study extensively discusses the legislative framework governing OHS in Turkey, emphasizing the forestry sector's compliance with national and international standards. A significant focus is on the preventive measures and safety protocols implemented to reduce workplace accidents and illnesses. This includes the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safety training programs, and the adoption of new technologies and ergonomic tools designed to mitigate occupational hazards. The review also examines the role of government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and worker unions in promoting and enforcing OHS practices. It highlights successful case studies where collaborative efforts have led to notable improvements in safety outcomes. In conclusion, while there have been substantial advancements in OHS within the Turkish forestry sector, ongoing challenges remain. The study suggests areas for future research and potential strategies to further enhance the health and safety of forestry workers.