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25/03/2015

Tree Care Work - KNOW THE HAZARDS

Tree care work can be dangerous. Many workers get hurt or killed from:


  • Falls,

  • Electrocutions, or

  • Being struck by trees.




Employers must provide free protective equipment (hard hat, climbing spurs, and
harness) and employees to:


  • Identify fall and electrical hazards

  • Know proper climbing techniques.

  • Use protective equipment - climbing lines can save your life during a fall!

  • Stand clear of the drop zone.


Supervisors must:


  • Check the worksite for workplace hazards.

  • Make sure the climbing gear provided is right for the tree size.

  • Assume that all power lines are energized and can electrocute a person at any time.

  • Know if workers will need to climb or use lifts. Provide equipment that is in good working condition.

  • Ensure that ground and elevated workers can see and hear each other.

  • Provide protections to prevent injuries.


Supervisors also need to:

H


  • ave a trained professional check falling tree hazards before starting work.

  • Keep work at least 10 feet away from electric power lines - or call the power company to de-energize and ground the line.

  • Secure a drop zone with cones that is at least two times the height of the tree.

  • Determine if rigging is necessary.



More information


AplusA-online.de - Source: U.S. Department of Labor