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Highlighting the Value of Forestry Work
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For a long time, due to ignorance, disinterest, or errors from our sector, public opinion has held that the working conditions of forestry workers are deficient, minimal, and expose them to hazardous situations that endanger their health and well-being. To top off the analysis, critics emphasize that they are poorly paid.
But the reality is diametrically opposite. There have been significant advancements that discredit these false accusations.
Ten years ago, the sector authorized an exceptional work schedule, allowing for different work shift options, the most common being the 7 X 7 system—working 7 days and resting for the next 7.
Camps have been transformed into rural hotels, with high standards of order and cleanliness, and meals designed based on the calorie intake required by each worker according to their job.
Workers are transported in vehicles specifically equipped for fieldwork, which are periodically inspected to meet the required standards.
In terms of prevention and safety, self-care breaks have been implemented in the morning and afternoon, pausing work for 30 minutes to hydrate, stretch, and thereby protect workers' physical and mental well-being.
Lastly, a key aspect of forestry work: wages. A recent study by the Association of Forestry Contractors A.G. (Acoforag) revealed that the average gross income in the forestry services sector equals 2.5 monthly minimum wages and 1.5 times the country's average income according to INE (2023).
The study's findings show the following results:
- Average gross income for Forestry Contractors: $1,301,671
- Country's average gross income: $826,635
- Legal minimum wage: $510,636
In summary, the reality of the forestry sector is very different from what some have insisted on portraying, and there is a genuine and ongoing commitment to seeking and improving the working conditions of forestry workers.
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