Safety measures in the production of laminated timber load bearing elements

Sa？etak The use of laminated timber load bearing elements in the past few decades is increasing due to their better characteristics when compared to other bearing elements - smaller weight (400 to 600 kg/m3), good mechanical properties in relation to weight (compressive strength 40 to 80 MP, tensile strength up to 180 MP), feasible production of lengths up to 100 m, production of variety of forms, flat, curved, circular). The production process of laminated timber load bearing elements differs depending on the technology used – classic or sophisticated (automated) technology. Production lines using classic and sophisticated technologies are presented in this paper. Also presented are the safety aspects in the production of laminated timber load bearing elements using the mentioned technologies, with focus on safety and health of the workers in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The production process is investigated for each of the two technologies indicating the likely risks and types of hazards to safety and health. The paper proposes important and much needed measures to assure safety at work in this production. Their implementation lessens the production costs and the expenses incurred by litigation and sick leaves