The Regional Director for Forest Resources stated on S. Miguel that the Regional Government's focus on forestry training is essential to prevent occupational risks but also to take good care of forests, which occupies a third of the regional territory.
 
“The aim is to provide trainees with basic knowledge on self-protection measures, identification of risks and accidents, behaviours to be adopted, technical knowledge of the devices to be used, namely in the maintenance of chainsaws, and the main disbranching and pruning techniques for trees," said Anabela Isidoro. She spoke on the sidelines of a training course aimed at chainsaw operators taking place in Nordeste.
 
This is a specific 25-hour training that involves 17 trainees.
 
Besides the 13 operations assistants working at the Forestry Services of Santa Maria, Ponta Delgada, Nordeste, Graciosa, São Jorge, Faial and Pico, Anabela Isidoro added that the training course for chainsaw operators is being attended by four operators from three private companies.
 
“This is an area where there have been increasing requests for training from the private sector that need to be addressed given its importance for the sector,” the Regional Director said, adding that a similar course for 16 participants is scheduled for November 11-14 on São Miguel Island.
 
Anabela Isidoro stated that the “Safe chainsaw operation” training for chainsaw operators and forest operators will begin Monday on Terceira Island. It is expected to involve 17 trainees: 12 workers from Terceira Forestry Service and five from local logging companies and sawmills.
 
The Regional Director for Forest Resources revealed that nine training sessions in this area have already taken place since 2015, covering a total of 126 trainees.