Radio Protocols Lead to Safer Forest Travel

July 31 , 2008

A pilot project on radio communication protocols aims to improve safety and reduce collisions on resource roads through standardized radio call procedures and road signs, Forests and Range Minister Pat Bell announced today.

Minister Pat Bell presents the Forests Minister's Award of Excellence to the Radio Communications Protocol Working Group, represented by BC Timber Sales Engineering Planner Doug Erickson, for the group's work to improve safety on Forest Service roads.

Minister Bell with staff from the Campbell River Forest District and BC Timber Sales Straight of Georgia business area.

A single set of radio channels is being used on Forest Service roads in the pilot project areas.  Road signs in the area indicate which radio channel to call while driving and loading:

As well as providing road markers and call-in instructions.

The protocol, radio channels and signs were developed by the Radio Communications Working Group, initially formed in 2006, with representatives from the Ministry of Forests and Range, BC Timber Sales, Industry Canada, BC Forest Safety Council/Truck Safe and FPInnovations.  The working group held numerous meetings with forest licensees and truck drivers in developing the protocol.