As a rule, low-voltage power lines are not visible in basic maps, so the cooperation considerably improves the safety of harvesting operators.
Metsä Group's harvesting sites are visited daily by approximately one thousand harvesters and forwarders. Forest work takes place all year round and in various weather conditions.
It is difficult to notice a black cable hanging in the air in a dark forest. Accurate information about the location of power lines helps machine operators maintain a safe distance and avoid possible accidents such as blackouts or even electric shocks.
The cooperation also makes forest specialists' work more efficient: before digital position information became available, the location of power lines had to be indicated on digital maps separately for each site. Information related to electric power networks is confidential. Therefore, the map system only displays power lines in the vicinity of the machine's work sites. When work on the site has been completed, the power line information automatically disappears.
Cooperation between Metsä Group and electric utilities does not only improve the safety of forest machine operators. In the event of storm or snow damage, Metsä Group's forest machines help clear power lines.
Harvesters can clear the lines safely and efficiently, and the electric utilities' own personnel can focus on repairing power lines instead of using a chain saw. This also improves the reliability of electricity supply.
The cooperation between Metsä Group and electric utilities is unique in Finland in terms of its scope.