Forests NSW has issued a safety alert appealing to the public to observe forest safety signs associated with harvesting operations within its pine plantations and native forests.

"The safety of our visitors, employees and contractors is paramount to Forests NSW. In a working forest it is critical that all persons observe the requirements of our safety signs," Forests NSW log supply coordinator Tijmen Klootwijk said.

"As well as being a valuable source of timber, our forests are open to the public to be used for a large number of recreational pursuits including bush walking, horse riding, mountain bike riding, fishing, walking the dog and so forth.

"Forests NSW recognises the recreational value of these forests to the public and manages safety accordingly by employing warning signs to define active harvesting worksites within the forests."

He said Forests NSW requests that forest visitors obey all signs and directions for their own safety, and for the safety of Forests NSW employees and contractors.

Where necessary, Forests NSW will establish marked detours to ensure access to popular sites.

Safety signs to look out for include:

‘NO ENTRY. ROAD CLOSED TO ALL TRAFFIC’.

This sign will be accompanied by a physical barrier and warns of extremely dangerous activities occurring ahead. Under no circumstances should visitors pass this point.

‘DANGER, TREE HARVESTING OPERATIONS IN PROGRESS. AUTHORISED PERSONS ONLY. RADIO CH. (to be indicated)’

This sign means only authorised personnel can pass this point. 

Forests NSW is happy to provide further information from its Tumut office or on  (02) 6947 3911.

Photos available by contacting sarahc@sf.nsw.gov.au

Media contact: Sarah Chester on (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669