Skogforsk Highlights Expertise on Safe Timber Storage Sites

“For many years, we have worked on developing methods and guidelines for the safe placement and handling of timber storage sites, both from a road safety perspective and to ensure efficiency throughout the logistics chain. Much of this work is carried out in collaboration with a working group that includes representatives from forest companies, contractors, and transport operators,” says Petra Ek, Project Manager at Skogforsk.

She adds:

“Now that reports are emerging about hazardous timber storage sites in the storm-affected region, we would like to highlight the knowledge we have in this area. We have advice and guidance that can be shared,” says Petra Ek.

Research shows that traffic risks increase when timber storage sites are located on bends, near hill crests, close to intersections, or where loading operations must take place from the roadway itself. Reducing these risks requires careful planning, thorough risk assessments, and close cooperationwith the road authority.

Knowledge Resources in Different Formats

To support forestry professionals, Skogforsk has produced films, guides, and knowledge articles on safe timber storage sites.

These materials (in Swedish) emphasize how storage sites should be located and designed so that they do not compromise the safety of road users or loading operations. This is illustrated in the film series “Safe Timber Storage Sites” and in the written guide “Storage of Timber and Forest Fuel Along Public and Private Roads,” developed by Skogforsk in collaboration with the Swedish Transport Administration.

Another current development initiative is the “Green Dots” project, which aims to improve planning and quality assurance of information regarding suitable timber storage locations.

In the storm-affected areas, the need for safe timber storage sites is particularly urgent, Petra Ek notes. Her message is clear:

“Even under severe time pressure, safety must remain the top priority. A storage site that is properly planned from the outset reduces both accident risks and costs throughout the timber supply chain,” she says.

Proper placement of a timber storage site along a public road.
Image: Jonas Gunnarsson