Band-It operator was placing bundle wires on a low bundle of logs in the lowest log bunk on the deck. Due to the extremely low level of the log bundle, the crimper mechanism was in an awkward position below the window sill (see photos in attached pdf) level of the Band-It.

To give himself more slack to work with, the operator cut the bundle wire before crimping it. Worker was using his left hand to try to force the front of the crimper onto the bundle wire sleeve and in doing so, failed to recognize his left index finger was in the cutting mechanism.

The worker activated the crimper mechanism trigger, which simultaneously activates the cutter resulting in a fractured finger. An additional high potential hazard was uncovered during the investigation. By cutting the wire before crimping it, then leaning over to force the crimper into place, the worker was exposed to a cut bundle wire just above his neck.

An accidental cycle of the bundle wire could result in the bundle wire being driven downwards at a high rate of speed into the worker.

Learnings & Suggestions:

• Update procedure to ensure that the bundle level is always high enough so that wood is in front of the crimping window, allowing the crimper handles to be above the window sill and vertical before operating the crimper. In the event that the bundle is too low, use alternate methods such as:

1) Using a higher bunk to raise the level of the logs,

2) Machine assistance to raise the bundle,

3) Use the band truck or other banding method.

• Update procedure to ensure the bundle wire must not be cut until the crimping procedure is completed. Immediately after cutting the bundle wire, cap the wire end, sleeve it, and cycle it into the guide to ensure it is not exposed.

• By putting the cutter mechanism on the same side as the trigger mechanism, it becomes virtually impossible to get one’s hand in the bight. Alternately, a double trigger mechanism may be installed that would require both hands to be on the handles in order to activate the crimper/cutter.