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Wood Chipper Operation & Safety - Blandford

Date: 8/6/2025 8:00 AM - 8/6/2025 2:30 PM

Location: Blandford Town Hall
1 Russell Stage Rd

Blandford, Massachusetts

Capacity:

10/25


Overview

image of wood chipper

Course Description
 This program will improve your safety skills and knowledge while operating a chipper.  Chipper operator safety depends on the ability to properly maintain and operate equipment, to help avoid serious injury or death. Hands on training will be provided.

Wood Chipper Safety is not a subject to be taken lightly. Serious injury and death can happen in the blink of an eye. Have you and your employees ever had any training on what many consider to be the most dangerous piece of equipment a municipality can own?

Wood chippers are often used on a daily basis and in adverse conditions. Make sure you and your crew are properly trained!

Participants must bring the following PPE (shared or personal):
PPE - Safety helmet (preferably a forestry one), eye & ear protection,
Boots, long pants, gloves are REQUIRED
 
Check-in begins at 7:30 am. Class start time 8:00 am.

Accommodations for Disabilities: UMTC endeavors to provide an inclusive learning environment for all. If you require special services or arrangements to fully participate in this workshop, please contact Caitlin Rachmaciej at crachmaciej@umass.edu or 413-230-9517 at least 14 days prior to the event. Such services are provided free of charge.

Also, if you have any dietary restrictions, please inform Caitlin Rachmaciej at least 10 days prior to the event.

 

 
Attendees
First Name Affiliation
Michael Town of Blandford Highway Department
Mario Town of Blandford Highway Department
Jim Town of Washington
Matthew Town of Hampden Highway Department
William Town of Hampden Highway Department
Tom Town of Washington
Ryan Town of Blandford Highway Department
Justin Town of Washington
Jeff Town of Hampden Highway Department
Tony Town of Hampden Highway Department
Instructors
  • David Smith
    Operations Manager at Town of Westford DPW
    Having spent most of his life in, on and around cars, trucks and equipment, David has had the privilege of working with some very knowledgeable tradesmen. Through this experience, David has gained an extensive amount of knowledge covering many different aspects of cars, trucks and equipment.

    David has gone from owning his own repair shop to overseeing a 100 + municipal fleet and then on to the position of Highway Superintendent.

    David lives on a tree farm in Sterling, MA where he finds operating a sawmill to be relaxing and therapeutic.