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About

This Lantra-accredited Customised Award is exclusively developed and delivered by a Lantra-approved Training Provider, who meets our quality standards. The course is specifically tailored to meet learners’ needs. For further details about the course content and delivery locations, please contact the Training Provider using the details provided below.

The minimum age to undertake this course is 16.

 

This FWM Awareness course is designed for individuals responsible for planning, supervising, or managing forestry operations. It covers the FWM’s roles and responsibilities as set out in FISA GMHSF guidance and equips participants with the knowledge and skills to manage health, safety, and environmental risks across all types of forestry work, not just harvesting. The course is also suitable as a refresher for those who have previously undertaken FISA-aligned FWM training.
 
Participants engage in interactive classroom sessions, real-world scenario discussions, and group exercises to reinforce understanding and practical application of key management principles. While the primary focus is on health and safety, environmental legislation is fully integrated into all modules, discussions, and case studies. Delivery combines structured theory with practical examples, covering topics such as dynamic risk assessment, effective supervision, and contractor management, all underpinned by FISA guidance and current industry best practice.

The finer details

The course is delivered over one day through interactive classroom sessions, scenario-based discussions, and practical exercises.

It begins with introductions, housekeeping, and safety briefings, followed by an overview of the legal system, relevant legislation, and the responsibilities of landowners and Forest Works Managers. Participants then explore health and safety guidance in forestry, including the FISA GMHSF roles and the key tasks of FWMs, with discussion of contractor engagement, risk management, site welfare, and public safety. Planning and risk assessment are reinforced through group exercises, while sessions on contractor and site management cover best practice for appointment, monitoring, and operational control. Operational hazards, machinery safety, and PUWER compliance are addressed through case studies and scenario work, and incident management is explored via RIDDOR reporting, accident investigation, and strategies to promote a positive safety culture. The course concludes with consolidation exercises, group discussion, and feedback, ensuring participants leave with a clear understanding of their FWM responsibilities and practical tools to foster a safe and compliant forestry environment.

Delivery method

Classroom

Recognised by

Lantra Awards

Course description:

Forestry Works Manager Awareness Download PDF

Who should attend?

  • Forestry Works Managers
  • Site Supervisors or Managers overseeing staff or contractors
  • Team Leaders or Operational Managers involved in forestry operations
  • Land Managers
  • Landowners
  • Individuals seeking a refresher on FISA-aligned FWM responsibilities

What will be covered?

At the end of the course participants will have an understanding of:

  • The Legal System & Understanding all Responsibilities
  • Guidance on Managing Health & Safety in Forestry
  • Planning & Risk Assessment
  • Contractor Management
  • Site Management
  • Operational Hazards
  • Incident Management & Investigation
Learning Objectives 1–3 establish the foundation for the FWM role, providing participants with a clear understanding of legal duties, GMHSF responsibilities, and principles of planning and dynamic risk assessment—all essential for safe and compliant site operations. Learning Objectives 4–6 focus on applying this foundation to real-world management, including appointing competent contractors, site control, public safety, pollution and welfare provision, machinery oversight, and PUWER compliance. Learning Objective 7 consolidates learning around incident management and safety culture, covering RIDDOR reporting, root cause analysis, and fostering a proactive, psychologically safe working environment led by effective management.

Other areas of interest

Chainsaw Operations for Supervisors & Managers
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