1/7/22, 10:49 AM Z133 Safety Requirements, Cover

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1/7/22, 10:50 AM Title Page

ANSI®
Z133 - 2017
Revision of ANSI Z133-2012

American National Standard for Arboricultural Operations—

Safety Requirements

Secretariat

International Society of Arboriculture

P.O. Box 3129

Champaign, IL 61826-3129, USA

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1/7/22, 10:50 AM Copyright

Approved by American National Standards Institute (ANSI) on 5 October 2017

ISBN 978-1-881956-71-3 (print)

ISBN 978-1-943378-00-5 (EPUB)

Copyright ©2017 by International Society of Arboriculture

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. Except as permitted
under the United States Copyright Act of 1976, no part of this publication may be
reproduced or distributed in any form or by any means or stored in a database or
retrieval system without the prior written permission of the International Society of
Arboriculture (ISA).

Editorial Coordinator: Marni Basic

Graphic Designer: Kathy Ashmore

Cover Designer: Beatriz Pérez González

International Society of Arboriculture

P.O. Box 3129

Champaign, IL 61826-3129, USA

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permissions@[Link]

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

KA/17-10/2000

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1/7/22, 10:50 AM American National Standard

American National Standard

Approval of an American National Standard requires verification by ANSI that the
requirements for due process, consensus, and other criteria for approval have
been met by the standards developer.

Consensus is established when, in the judgment of the ANSI Board of Standards

Review, substantial agreement has been reached by directly and
materially
affected interests. Substantial agreement means much more than a simple
majority, but not necessarily unanimity. Consensus requires that all views and
objections be considered and that a concerted effort be made toward their
resolution.

The use of American National Standards is completely voluntary; their

existence
does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether he or she has approved the
standards or not, from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products,
processes, or procedures not conforming to the standards.

The American National Standards Institute does not develop standards and will in
no circumstances give an interpretation of any American National Standard.
Moreover, no person shall have the right or authority
to issue an interpretation of
an American National Standard in the name
of the American National Standards
Institute. Requests for interpretations should be addressed to the secretariat or
sponsor whose name appears on the title page of this standard.

CAUTION NOTICE: This American National Standard may be revised or

withdrawn at any time. The procedures of the American National Standards
Institute require that action be taken periodically to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this
standard. Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current
information on all standards by calling or writing the American National Standards
Institute.

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1/7/22, 10:50 AM Foreword

Foreword

FOREWORD
(This foreword is not part of American National Standard Z133-2017).

This standard was developed for the arboriculture industry under the procedures of
the American National Standards Institute by the Accredited Standards Committee
on Safety Requirements for Arboricultural
Operations, Z133. The secretariat of the
Z133 Committee is held by the International Society of Arboriculture.

The Accredited Standards Committee Z133 was organized on 4 April 1968, in

response to efforts by Mrs. Ethel M. Hugg of Johnstown, New York. Mrs. Hugg’s
son had died while trimming trees, and this tragic incident caused her to write to
federal and state authorities and to various other organizations in an attempt to
have measures initiated that would make tree trimming safer.

The Z133 Committee was organized with the National Arborist Association (now
the Tree Care Industry Association) as secretariat. Committee delegates included
representatives of industry, labor, the academic community, government,
equipment manufacturers, insurance carriers, and other interested experts. The
International Shade Tree Conference (now the International Society of
Arboriculture) became the secretariat of the committee in November 1969.

The initial standard was unanimously adopted by the committee on 14 July 1971,
and was approved as an American National Standard on 20 December 1972.

The Z133 Committee continues to monitor arboriculture safety performance,

providing interpretation and clarification of the intent of
the requirements in the
standard and for any adjustments or revisions of the standard.

Portions of the safety standard have been adopted by the Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA).
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1/7/22, 10:50 AM Foreword

The committee recognizes that manufacturers provide instruction manuals

regarding operation of their products, but these manuals are not
dispositive of
whether a particular risk or hazard exists.

This standard is reviewed on a continual basis by the committee and reviewed by

the public. Revisions have occurred in 1978, 1982, 1987, 1994, 2000, 2006, and
2012. The 2017 revision has undergone significant changes. Editorial and
substantive changes have been made as a result of
committee review and public
comment.

There are ten annexes in this standard. All ten are informative and are not
considered part of this standard.

Suggestions for improvement of this standard are welcome. All official comments
must be made online using the form at [Link]/Z133. For general
comments or questions, e-mail the International Society of Arboriculture at
Z133@[Link].

This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by the
Accredited Standards Committee on Safety Requirements for Arboricultural
Operations, Z133. Committee approval of the standard does
not necessarily imply
that all committee members voted for its approval. At the time the Z133 Committee
approved this standard, it included the following members:

Mark J. Tobin, Chair

Donald F. Blair, Vice Chair

Tricia Duzan, Secretary

Alex Julius, Secretary

Sharon Lilly, Secretary

Janet Huber, Secretary

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1/7/22, 10:50 AM Section 1

Section 1

GENERAL

1.1 Scope
This standard contains arboriculture safety requirements for pruning, repairing,
maintaining, and removing trees; cutting brush; and for using equipment in such
operations. (Note: Terms specific to the safe practice of arboriculture appear in
boldface type at first use and are defined in Annex A, Glossary of Terms for ANSI
Z133.)

1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this document is to provide safety standards for arborists
and
other workers engaged in arboricultural operations. It is intended as a guide to
federal, state, and local authorities in drafting their regulations and may be
adopted in whole or in part.

1.3 Application
This standard is intended to serve as a reference for safety requirements that will
apply to all employers
or persons engaged in the business, trade, or performance
of arboriculture for pay, operations of which include, but are not limited to, tree
pruning, repairing, or maintaining; removing trees; cutting brush; or performing
pest or soil management.

This standard may require situational modifications in response to personnel

emergencies and is not intended to limit the options available
to emergency
responders.

1.4 Responsibilities of the Employee

Each person (employee or otherwise) shall be responsible for his/her own safety
while at work and shall comply with the appropriate federal or state occupational
safety and health standards and all rules, regulations, and orders that are
applicable to his/her own actions and conduct.

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Section 2

NORMATIVE REFERENCES
This standard contains references to other American National Standards and
federal regulations, which, through reference in this text, constitute provisions of
this American National Standard. See Annex D, Additional Resources, for a list of
these and other applicable informative references. At the time of publication, the
editions indicated were valid. All standards are subject to revision, and parties
to
agreements based on this American National Standard are encouraged to
investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the standards
indicated in Annex D.

Because of the many specialized procedures utilized during arboricultural

operations, it must be emphasized that exceptions to provisions of these standards
may be acceptable and that flexibility and/or a decision as to the applicability of
these standards to professional operations may be required.

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Section 3

GENERAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

3.1 General

3.1.1
Tools and equipment used in arboricultural operations shall comply with applicable
OSHA regulations and/or ANSI standards. In the absence of applicable
OSHA/ANSI guidance, the requirements of this standard shall be followed.

3.1.2
Employers shall instruct their employees in the proper use, inspection, and
maintenance of personal protective equipment (PPE), tools (hand and powered),
and other equipment, including ropes and lines.

3.1.3
Employers shall require that appropriate safety-related work practices be followed
in accordance with applicable OSHA and consensus standards, including, but not
limited to ANSI and ASTM. As applicable, manufacturers’ recommendations
should be followed. See Section 5, Safe Use of Vehicles, Mobile, and Towed
Equipment Used in Arboriculture, for specific standards regarding vehicles and
mobile equipment.

3.2 Emergency Procedures and Readiness

3.2.1
All personnel engaged in arboricultural operations shall be instructed in the correct
procedures for emergency response, including 911 calls and other applicable
emergency phone numbers.

3.2.2
The employer shall provide and maintain a first-aid kit that meets the requirements of
ANSI Z308 1 with contents appropriate for the type of job and number of workers.

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3.2.3
Instruction shall be provided in the identification, preventive measures, and first-aid
treatment of common poisonous plants (poison ivy, poison oak, and poison
sumac), stinging and biting insects, and other pests found in the area in which
work is to be performed.

3.2.4
Employees who may be faced with a rescue decision shall receive training in
emergency response and rescue procedures appropriate and applicable to the
work to be performed, as well as training to recognize
the hazards inherent in
rescue efforts (see Annex F, Aerial Rescue Flowchart).

3.2.5
For field crews involving two or more workers at a work location, at least two
workers trained in first aid/CPR shall be available. However, only one trained
person need be available if all new employees are trained in first aid within three
months of their hiring dates.

3.3 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

3.3.1
Personal protective equipment (PPE), as outlined in this section, shall be required
when there is a reasonable probability of injury or illness that can be prevented by
such protection.

3.3.2
The employer shall assess the worksite to determine if hazards are present or are
likely to be present and what type of personal protective
equipment is required.

3.3.3
Training shall be provided on the inspection, use, care, maintenance, fit, and
replacement of personal protective equipment.

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3.3.4 Workers engaged in arboricultural operations shall wear head protection

(helmet) that conforms to ANSI Z89.1. Class E helmets shall be worn when
working in proximity to electrical conductors in accordance with ANSI Z89.1.
Workers shall not place reliance on the dielectric capabilities of such helmets.

3.3.5
Hearing protection provided by the employer shall be worn when it is not practical
to decrease or isolate noise levels that exceed acceptable
standards. The
employer shall provide employees protection against the effects of noise exposure
when sound levels exceed an 8-hour, time-weighted average (TWA) of 85 decibels
(dB).

3.3.6
Eye protection shall comply with ANSI Z87.1 and shall be worn when engaged in
arboricultural operations.

3.3.7
Clothing and footwear appropriate to the known worksite hazards shall be
approved by the employer and worn by the employee.

3.3.8
Cut-resistant leg protection that meets or exceeds ASTM F1414 and ASTM
F1897 shall be worn while operating a chain saw during ground operations. Cut-
resistant leg protection shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturers’
recommendations.

3.3.9
Face protection shall comply with applicable federal regulations as well as with
ANSI Z87.1.

3.3.10
Respiratory protection shall comply with applicable federal regulations and with
ANSI Z88.2.
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3.4 Job Briefing and Worksite Setup

3.4.1
A qualified arborist shall determine whether direct supervision is needed on a
worksite.
3.4.2
Before digging, underground utilities shall be marked by utility-locating services.

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Many utility-based locating services will not locate privately owned underground
lines, such as, but not limited to, irrigation, electrical wires, and propane lines.
Further resources or research may be necessary
to locate underground utilities
on private properties.

3.4.3
A job briefing shall be performed by the qualified arborist in charge before the
start of each job. The briefing shall be communicated to all affected workers. An
employee working alone need not
conduct a job briefing. However, the employer
shall ensure that the tasks are being performed as if a briefing were required.

3.4.4
Before commencing operations, a communication protocol shall be established or
reviewed between arborists aloft and personnel working on
the ground. Verbal
communication by voice or radio shall employ a command-and-response (C&R)
protocol. “Stand Clear” as the “C” from aloft and “Clear” as the “R” from the ground
are examples. Hand signals or whistles may also be used. Eye contact with, or
line-of-sight between, the arborist aloft and the ground person should also be
established when communicating.

3.4.5
The arborist in charge shall establish a plan to safely manage the worksite.
Communications among arborists aloft and other workers on the ground shall be
established before commencing operations. Predetermined, non-verbal
communication such as whistles, two-way hand signals, or radios may also be
used.
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3.4.6
When dropping or lowering trunks, branches, fruit, or equipment, a landing area
(drop zone) should be designated.

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People and valuable objects shall be protected or excluded from the drop zone
when active.

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A visible drop zone may be designated as an aid to avoidance of falling objects.

3.4.7
An inspection shall be made by a qualified arborist to determine whether an
electrical hazard exists before performing arboricultural operations.

3.4.8
A qualified arborist shall visually inspect the tree, including the root collar and the
area immediately surrounding the tree, for hazards before anyone climbs,
otherwise enters, or performs any work on the tree.

3.4.9
When definite indicators of decay, weakly attached branches, or dead bark are
seen, the qualified arborist shall determine if the tree can withstand the forces to
be applied during the work.

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If there is question as to the condition of the tree, relative to the
task to be
performed, work shall not commence until a more thorough assessment can be
made.

3.4.10
A second arborist, an arborist trainee, or other worker trained in emergency
procedures shall be within visual or voice communication during arboricultural
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operations above 12 feet (3.65 m) that are not subject to the requirements of
Subsection 4.3.9.

3.5 Traffic Control

3.5.1
Traffic and pedestrian control around the worksite shall be established prior to the
start of all arboricultural operations.

3.5.2
Arborists and other workers having specific temporary traffic control zone
responsibilities shall be trained in temporary traffic control techniques, device
usage and placement, and how to work next to traffic in a manner that minimizes
their exposure.

3.5.3
Arborists and other workers exposed to risks of moving roadway traffic shall wear
high-visibility safety apparel meeting the requirements of ANSI/ISEA 107.

3.5.4
The temporary traffic control zone should impede the flow of vehicular traffic as
little as possible. Arborists and other workers should use the necessary devices
that get the road user’s attention and provide positive direction in accordance with
the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).

3.5.5
Pedestrians should have separate movement from the worksite and vehicular
traffic, including bicycles, with a safe, convenient, and accessible path.

3.6 Fire Protection

3.6.1
All personnel shall be instructed in the use and location of vehicle-mounted fire
extinguishers.

3.6.2
Equipment shall be fueled only:
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a. when the engine has been shut down;

b. from approved containers; and
c. at least 10 feet (3.05 m) from any operating equipment.

Spilled fuel shall be cleaned up before restarting.

3.6.3
Flammable liquids shall be stored, handled, and dispensed from approved and
clearly marked containers.

3.6.4
Equipment shall not be operated within 10 feet (3.05 m) of areas in which refueling
has recently taken place.

3.6.5
Smoking shall be prohibited when working around or handling flammable liquids or
while wearing clothing contaminated by fuel.

3.6.6
Clothing contaminated with fuel shall be changed, removed, or replaced as soon
as possible.

3.6.7
Open flame and other sources of ignition shall be avoided.

3.6.8
Dead and/or combustible material shall be kept clear of hot and/or operating
equipment.

3.6.9
Where required, all internal or external combustion engines shall be equipped with
a spark arrester that meets the requirements established by SAE Standard J335 or
USDA Forest Service Specification 5100-1. Federal requirements are explained in
36 CFR 261.52.

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Section 4

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

4.1 General

4.1.1
All applicable requirements in Section 3, General Safety Requirements, shall apply
to this section.

4.1.2
The employer shall train each employee that all overhead and underground
electrical conductors, guy wires, pole grounds, and communication wires and
cables shall be considered energized with potentially fatal voltages.

4.1.3
Arborists’ training and degree of training in electrical hazards shall be determined
by the risk to the employee for hazard(s) involved.

4.1.4
All arborists and other workers shall be instructed that:

a. the human body is conductive and poses little resistance to electric current
and will provide a path for the flow of electricity to a grounded object or to the
ground itself;
b. direct contact or indirect contact (phase-to-ground
contact) with an
electrical conductor, energized tree limb, tool, or equipment, or other
energized object may lead to electric shock, significant injury, or death;
c. the woody parts of trees, leaves, branches, needles, palm fronds, etc., are
conductive;
d. simultaneous contact with two separate energized conductors (phase-to-
phase contact) will cause electric shock that may result in serious or fatal
injury;
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e. electrical shock may occur as a result of ground fault when a person stands
near a grounded object that becomes energized (e.g., an uninsulated part of
an aerial device comes into contact with a conductor); and
f. in the event of a downed energized electrical conductor or energized
grounded object (e.g., guy wires or pole grounds), there exists the hazard of
touch and step potential.

4.1.5
An inspection shall be made by a qualified arborist to determine whether an
electrical hazard exists before climbing, otherwise entering,
or performing work in
or on a tree.

4.1.6
When determining the presence of an electrical hazard, consideration shall be
given to the potential movement of an electrical supply line due to wind, load sag,
or other factors that affect the line’s position in relation to the work.

4.1.7
Arborists not qualified by training and
experience to work within 10 feet (3.05
m) of electrical conductors shall maintain
at all times the minimum approach
distances (MAD) shown in Table 1,
measured radially.

4.1.8
Arborists should climb on the side of the
tree that is away from energized
electrical conductors.

4.1.9
Climbers’ body, gear, and their conductive equipment shall be maintained at the
required minimum approach distance (MAD) or greater, shown in Tables 1, 2, or 3,
as applicable.

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4.1.10
The climber’s tie-in point should be above the climber’s work position and located
in such a way that a slip would swing the arborist away from any energized
electrical conductor or other identified hazard.

4.1.11
A conductive rope may not be used within the minimum approach distances (MAD)
shown in Tables 1, 2, or 3, as applicable.

4.1.12
Portable ladders shall not have conductive side rails if they are used where the
employee or the ladder could contact exposed energized parts.

4.1.13
Ladders, platforms, and aerial devices, including insulated aerial devices, shall
be subject to minimum approach distances in accordance with Tables 1, 2, or 3, as
applicable.

4.1.14
Due to the hazards of step and touch potential, if the distance between the aerial
device and energized conductor(s) is unintentionally less than the required
minimum approach distance (MAD), workers on the ground shall move away and
remain clear of the aerial-device vehicle and
attached equipment (e.g., chipper)
until the required MAD is re-established.

4.1.15
Emergency response to an electric contact shall be performed in accordance with
Section 3.2, Emergency Procedures and Readiness.

4.1.16
Arboricultural operations in proximity to energized electrical conductors shall not
be performed during adverse weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, high
winds, snow storms, or ice storms.
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4.2 Working in Proximity to Electrical Hazards – Incidental Line

Clearance (29 CFR 1910, Subpart S)

4.2.1
The items contained in Section 4.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

4.2.2
Workers shall be trained on safety-related work practices that protect employees
against the voltage level to which they are exposed.

4.2.3
Safety-related work practices shall be employed to prevent electric shock or other
injuries resulting from either direct or indirect electrical contacts and shall be
consistent with the nature and extent of the electrical hazards present.

4.2.4
Training for qualification of qualified incidental line clearance arborists requires a
minimum of:

a. the skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed live parts from
other parts of electric equipment;
b. the skills and techniques necessary to determine the nominal voltage of
exposed live parts; and
c. the minimum approach distances (MAD) specified in Table 2 and the
corresponding voltages to which the qualified person will be exposed.

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4.2.5
Before work is performed within the minimum approach distance (MAD) without
insulated tools, overhead energized lines shall be de-energized.
It shall be the
responsibility of the system owner/operator of the electrical system to make the
system safe.

4.2.6
When a qualified incidental line-clearance arborist is working in the
vicinity of
overhead lines, whether in an elevated position or on the ground, the person shall
not approach or take any conductive object closer to exposed energized parts than
shown in Table 2.

4.2.7
Branches and other parts of trees within the minimum approach distances (MAD)
which have been browned or charred by past electrical arcing or contact should be
considered likely to become re-energized without warning and thus should be
treated as energized. Climbing of trees in such condition should be avoided.
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4.2.8

Tools that are not rated as insulated for the voltage to which they are exposed
shall be considered conductive.

4.3 Working in Proximity to Electrical Hazards – Utility Line

Clearance (29 CFR 1910.269)

4.3.1
The items contained in Section 4.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

4.3.2
The employer shall verify that each line-clearance arborist is qualified to work
within proximity to electrical hazards that the arborist is exposed to and has been
trained in the following topics:

a. To be familiar with safety-related work practices, procedures, and other

requirements that pertain to his or her job assignments.
b. On emergency and work-related rescue procedures that are related to his or
her work and are necessary for the safety of the worker.

4.3.3
Qualified line-clearance arborists shall also be trained and competent in:

a. The skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed, energized parts

from other parts of electric equipment.
b. The skills and techniques necessary to determine the nominal voltage of
exposed energized parts.
c. The MAD specified in Table 3 and the corresponding voltages to which
the
qualified line-clearance arborist will be exposed and the skills and techniques
necessary to maintain those distances, for the nominal voltage present.

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4.3.4
The employer shall ensure that each employee has demonstrated proficiency in
the work practices involved before that employee is considered as having
completed the training.

4.3.5
When qualified line-clearance arborist trainees are assigned to work where an
electrical hazard exists, the qualified line-clearance arborist trainees shall be under
the direct supervision of qualified line-clearance arborists.

4.3.6
Qualified line-clearance arborists and qualified line-clearance arborist trainees
performing line clearance
after a storm or under similar conditions shall be trained
in the hazards associated with this type of work and in the recognition of the
hazards of step potential.

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4.3.7

Line-clearance operations shall be suspended when adverse weather conditions

or emergency conditions develop involving energized electrical conductors.
Electrical system owners/operators shall be notified immediately.

4.3.8
When performing line-clearance work for the electrical system owner/operator
(host employer)
– it shall be the responsibility of the contract employer receiving
host utility information to communicate it and any hazardous conditions relevant to
the affected workers performing the affected work.

a. Before work begins, the contract employer and the host employer shall
coordinate their work rules and procedures so that each employee of the
contract employer and the host employer is protected.
b. Before work begins, the contract employer shall advise the host employer of
any unique hazardous conditions presented by the contract employer’s work.
c. The contract employer shall advise the host utility/employer of any
unanticipated hazardous conditions of the electrical system found during
the
contract employer’s work. This information shall be provided to the
host utility
within two working days after discovering the hazardous condition.

4.3.9
A second qualified line-clearance arborist or line-clearance arborist
trainee (with a
minimum of training in emergency procedures), shall be within unassisted voice
communication and should be within visual contact during line-clearance
operations aloft when a qualified line-clearance arborist or line-clearance arborist
trainee must approach
closer than 10 feet (3.05 m) to any energized electrical
conductor in excess of 750 volts (primary conductor) or when:

a. branches or limbs are being removed, which cannot first be cut (with
an
insulated pole pruner/pole saw) to sufficiently clear electrical conductors, so
as to avoid contact; and/or
b. roping is required to remove branches or limbs from such electrical
conductors.
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4.3.10

Insulating pruning tools shall be designed and constructed to withstand the

minimum testing, as outlined in Annex J, Live-Line Tools.

4.3.11
Qualified line-clearance arborists and line-clearance arborist trainees shall
maintain minimum approach distances from energized electrical conductors in
accordance with Table 3.

4.3.12
If the minimum approach distance (shown in Table 3) cannot be maintained during
the arboricultural operations, the qualified line-clearance arborist shall request that
the electrical system owner/operator’s
designated supervisor in charge
coordinate communications and operations between the electrical system
owner/operator and the qualified line-clearance arborist to mitigate the electrical
hazard. Mitigation options should include all safe, OSHA-compliant, and practical
work methods, and, where necessary, de-energizing, testing,
isolating, and
grounding the electrical conductors by the electrical system owner/operator (see
Annex H, Electrical Hazard Abatement). The designated electrical system
owner/operator employee and the designated qualified line-clearance arborist in
charge shall confirm that protective ground(s) have been installed as close as is
practical to the
line-clearance work to be performed to prevent hazardous
differences in
electrical potential.

4.3.13
Branches that are contacting exposed energized conductors or equipment, or that
are within the distances specified in Table 3, may be
removed only through the use
of insulating equipment and/or tools.

4.3.14
Branches and other parts of trees within the minimum approach distances (MAD)
which have been browned or charred by past electrical arcing or contact, should
be treated with caution. The following steps should be followed when this condition
is present:
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a. Climbing of trees in such condition should be assessed by a qualified line-

clearance arborist and supervisor to determine whether or
not an electrical
hazard exists and mitigation is necessary before performing arboricultural
operations.
b. The arborist in charge shall establish a plan to safely manage the work.
c. Work strategies, in accordance with contract employer and host utility work
rules, shall be employed so that each employee of the contract employer and
the host employer is protected (see Subsection 4.3.12 and Annex H,
Electrical Hazard Abatement, on determining an electric hazard mitigation
plan).

4.3.15
Rubber gloves, with or without leather or other protective covering, shall not be
considered as providing any measure of safety from electrical hazards.

4.3.16
Footwear, including lineman’s overshoes or those with electrical-resistant soles,
shall not be considered as providing any measure of safety from electrical
hazards.

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Section 5

SAFE USE OF VEHICLES, MOBILE, AND TOWED

EQUIPMENT USED IN ARBORICULTURE

5.1 Vehicles and Mobile Equipment

5.1.1
All applicable requirements in Section 3, General Safety Requirements, shall apply
to this section.

5.1.2
Pre- and post-trip inspections shall be performed on all equipment. Inspections
and operational checks shall be performed in accordance with
applicable Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), and state and local requirements.

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If an inspection reveals a defect that could affect the safe operation of the
equipment, the equipment shall be removed from service.
To prevent operating
the equipment prior to repairs, the defects shall be documented and
documentation made visible for other operators. The inspection record shall not
be removed until the repairs have been made and the equipment is safe to use.

5.1.3
When the operators’ view of hazards may be obstructed, walk-through inspections
of the area where equipment will travel shall be performed. If hazards cannot be
removed, the hazards shall be flagged, marked, or otherwise identified, and the
operator shall be made aware of the hazards prior to proceeding. If a written pre-
job briefing exists for the work being completed, identified hazards shall be
documented.

5.1.4
Equipment shall be equipped and maintained with manufacturers’ safety devices,
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instructions, decals, and safeguards.

5.1.5
Manufacturers’ preventive maintenance inspections and parts replacement
procedures should be followed.
5.1.6
No part of the body shall be used to locate or stop hydraulic leaks.

5.1.7
Equipment shall be inspected, operated, and maintained only by employer-
authorized personnel.

5.1.8
Material and equipment carried on vehicles shall be properly stored and secured
in compliance with the design of the equipment and in accordance with federal,
state, or local regulations.

5.1.9
Manufacturer-provided slip/skid-resistant surfaces shall be maintained.

5.1.10
Safety seatbelts, when provided by the manufacturer, shall be worn by
the driver
and passenger(s) while the vehicle is in motion.

5.1.11
Riding or working outside or on top of equipment shall not be permitted unless the
equipment is specifically designed for that purpose.

5.1.12
Hoisting or lifting equipment mounted on vehicles shall be used within rated
capacities as stated by the manufacturers’ specifications.

5.1.13
Equipment with an obstructed view to the rear, particularly those with towed
equipment should be backed up only when absolutely necessary The vehicle
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shall not be backed up unless the vehicle has a reverse signal alarm audible

above the surrounding noise level or when a

spotter signals that it is safe to do
so, or, immediately before backing up, the driver determines through a visual walk-
around inspection that there are no people or obstructions in the path of the
vehicle.

5.1.14
When equipment is left unattended, attachments should be stowed, cradled, or
lowered to the ground; keys shall be removed from the ignition; the wheels
chocked; and, if applicable, the parking brake applied.

5.1.15
When performing maintenance or repairs, except where manufacturers’
procedures require otherwise:

a. equipment shall be turned off;

b. keys shall be removed from the ignition;
c. all rotating parts and moving parts shall be stopped and secured, if
applicable; and
d. all sources of energy, including, but not limited to: mechanical, electrical,
hydraulic, pneumatic, chemical, and thermal energy shall be verified to be
released.

Defects or malfunctions affecting the safe operation of equipment shall be

corrected before such equipment is placed into use (see Annex C, General Safety
Procedures That Apply to All Tree Work).

5.1.16
When towing:

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Safety chains shall be crossed under the tongue of the equipment being towed
and adjusted to the appropriate length. The safety chains shall not be twisted or
knotted when connecting or when connected to the
tow vehicle.
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Connecting links and repair links shall be of the same size and grade as the
safety chain(s) being used.

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All coupling devices shall be in place and in proper working condition (e.g., pins,
electrical connections, emergency break-away devices). Equipment shall meet
the towing capacities necessary for the intended load.

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Manufacturer towing capacity and gross combination weight rating (GCWR)
shall not be exceeded except where permitted by law.

5.1.17
Prior to being detached, towed equipment shall be chocked or otherwise secured
in place.

5.1.18
Precautions should be taken to ensure that exhaust systems do not present a fire
hazard.

5.1.19
Equipment operated off-road shall be operated in the appropriate gear and speed
relative to the operating environment.

5.1.20
Operator protective structures shall meet the requirements of the applicable
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) standard.

5.1.21
Equipment body props shall be installed and used when the dump body is raised
and workers need to access the area underneath. The equipment props should be
accessible without reaching between the raised part of the equipment and the
chassis or body of the equipment.
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5.1.22

Drivers shall know and not exceed the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and/or
gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of any vehicle and towed equipment
prior to moving the equipment.

5.1.23
Drivers shall know the height of the vehicle and any towed equipment prior to
moving the vehicle or towed equipment and shall not attempt to drive under
structures lower than the vehicle height.

5.2 Aerial Devices

5.2.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.2.2
Before the aerial device is set up for use, the worksite shall be surveyed for
hazards, such as:

insufficient supporting surfaces, such as soft ground

ditches
excessive slopes, drop-offs, curbs, and floor obstructions
debris
overhead obstructions and electrical conductors
weather conditions
presence of unauthorized persons
road or worksite traffic
subsurface chambers, such as underground utility components or septic
systems

5.2.3
Aerial devices or aerial ladders shall not be used as cranes or hoists to lift,
support, or lower materials or tree parts unless they were specifically designed by
the manufacturer to do so
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the manufacturer to do so.

5.2.4
A minimum of two wheel chocks shall be set before using an aerial device unless
the device has no wheels on the ground or is designed for use without chocks.

5.2.5
Outriggers or stabilizers shall be used if manufacturers’ instructions require their
use. All outriggers shall be properly set on pads before the aerial device is moved
from the boom rest (cradle).

5.2.6
The operator of the outrigger controls shall ensure adequate clearance exists and
give warning to all workers on the worksite prior to lowering outriggers.

5.2.7
Aerial devices shall be provided with fall-protection anchor(s) meeting design
requirements of the ANSI/SIA A92.2 standard on which to secure an approved
system of personal fall protection which shall be worn by the operator(s) whenever
aloft.

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All fall protection shall be worn and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer
specification.

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The carabiners and snap hooks used as part of a fall-arrest system shall have
a 3,600-pound-rated gate. Carabiners and snap hooks shall not be linked
together unless designed to do so and accepted by the manufacturer.

5.2.8
Combined loads shall not exceed rated lift capacities. Load ratings shall be
permanently posted on aerial devices in accordance with ANSI/SIA A92.2 or
A92.5, as applicable to the specific aerial device.

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5.2.9

Aerial buckets/platforms shall not have more occupants or load than allowed by
the manufacturers’ rating.

5.2.10
The operator shall stand firmly on the floor of the platform (aerial bucket) and shall
not use railings, planks, ladders, or any other device
in or on the bucket for
achieving additional working height.

5.2.11
Climbing spurs (gaffs) shall not be worn while working from an aerial device.

5.2.12
A sheath or scabbard shall be utilized in the bucket to cover sharp-edged tools,
such as chain saws and hand saws (unless of the folding type that covers the
cutting teeth when closed), while stored for use.

5.2.13
During pruning/removal operations, a hand saw shall be taken by the aerial device
operator while working aloft.

5.2.14
Before moving an aerial device for travel, the operator shall inspect
the aerial
device to ensure the boom(s) are cradled and secured, the tools are secured, and
the outriggers are stowed or positioned for travel per manufacturer specifications.

5.2.15
When operating an aerial device, the operator shall look primarily in
the direction
the platform (aerial bucket) is traveling and be aware of
the location of the booms,
including the elbow/knuckle area, in relation to all other objects and hazards.

5.2.16
When transferring from the platform (aerial bucket) of an aerial device to a tree in
order to complete an arboricultural operation, arborists shall remain secured to the
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aerial device until they are properly secured to the tree. At no time shall work be
performed while an arborist is secured to both the aerial device and the
tree.
5.2.17
Arborists shall remain properly secured at all times when transferring from the
bucket of an inoperative aerial device to the platform (aerial bucket) of an
operative aerial device to facilitate an emergency descent.

5.2.18
The lower controls of an aerial device shall not be used for continuous operation
when the operator is in the platform (aerial bucket).

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Lower controls shall not be operated unless permission has been obtained from
the arborist in the platform, except in case of emergency.

5.2.19
Clearances from passing vehicles shall be maintained or traffic control shall be
provided when booms or platforms (aerial buckets) are operated over roads in
accordance with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), Part 6,
federal, state, or local, as applicable.

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Clearances shall be maintained for outriggers and any other portion of the
vehicle that may extend into or over the lanes of travel or that work over them.

5.2.20
Workers shall not perform arboricultural operations work, such as pruning or
cutting of trees, from the top of vehicle bodies or cab protectors unless the worker
is properly protected from the fall hazard.

5.2.21
Hydraulic/pneumatic tools shall be disconnected when they are being serviced or
adjusted, except where manufacturers’ procedures require otherwise.

5.2.22
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To avoid flying particles or whipping hydraulic/pneumatic hoses, pressure shall be

released before connections are broken, except where quick-acting connectors
are used. Hydraulic/pneumatic hoses shall never be kinked in order to cut off
pressure.

5.2.23
No part of the body shall be used to locate or stop hydraulic leaks.

5.2.24
Hoses affecting dielectric characteristics of equipment shall meet manufacturers’
requirements.

5.2.25
The flash point of hydraulic fluid shall meet the requirements set by the
manufacturer.

5.2.26
Booms, platforms (aerial buckets), or any other part of the aerial device shall not
be allowed to make contact or violate minimum approach distances with energized
electrical conductors, poles, or similar conductive objects.

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Due to hazards of step and touch potential, if the distance between the aerial
device and energized conductor(s) is unintentionally less than the required
minimum approach distance (MAD), workers on the ground
shall move away
and remain clear of the aerial-device vehicle and attached equipment (e.g.,
chipper) until the required MAD is re-established.

5.2.27
Aerial devices equipped with an elevating structure that raises the turret and
booms and changes the reach of the device’s uninsulated portions shall be
operated so that no portion of the aerial device and its elevating structure violate
the minimum approach distance (MAD) from
energized electrical lines as specified
in this standard. A spotter(s) shall be used when the aerial lift is working close to
MAD and potentially could violate MAD.
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When the minimum approach distance (MAD) is likely to be violated, the
spotter(s) shall warn the equipment operator and other ground personnel, if
present, and direct ground personnel to keep clear of the vehicle and
attachments until MAD is visually established and communicated.

5.2.28
Electric cables/cords used with electric saws, lights, or other conductive material
shall not be run from the vehicle to the platform (aerial bucket) when arborists are
working in proximity to energized electrical conductors.

5.2.29

a. Platforms (aerial buckets) on insulated aerial devices shall have no through-

cracks or holes below the lip of the platform.
b. Insulating liners shall have no holes below the lip of the liner or vertical cracks
greater than 6 inches (15.24 cm) long.

5.2.30
During aerial device operations, arborists and other workers shall maintain a
minimum approach distance from energized electric conductors in accordance with
the appropriate table of this standard as required by
their level of training.

5.2.31
Arborists and other workers shall be instructed that insulated aerial
platforms
(aerial buckets) do not protect them from other electric paths to the ground, such
as paths through trees or guy wires or from phase-to-phase contact. Either form of
electric contact can be fatal.

5.2.32
Arborists using a boom-supported elevating work platform
shall operate the
platform within the limits of intended use as defined
by the manufacturer in the
operator’s manual, ANSI/SIA A92.5, and applicable governmental regulations.

5.2.33
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Only operators who have received instruction and training regarding the
inspection, application, responsibilities, and operation shall operate a boom-
supported elevating work platform. The operator shall be informed of the location
of the manual and familiarized with the controls, safety devices, and operating
characteristics of the work platform being operated.

5.2.34
Insulated boom-supported elevating work platforms shall meet the electric safety
requirements of ANSI/SIA A92.2.

5.2.35
The operator shall assess the worksite hazards present that pertain to the use of a
boom-supported elevating work platform on that worksite.
The operator and other
workers shall develop, communicate, and implement a work plan to mitigate the
hazards identified on that worksite.

5.3 Brush Chippers

5.3.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.3.2
Access panels and guards for maintenance and adjustment, including the
discharge chute and cutter housing, shall be closed and secured prior to starting
the engine of brush chippers. These access panels shall not be opened or
unsecured until the engine and all moving parts have come to a complete stop and
the ignition key removed and pocketed (see Annex C.2, Control of Hazardous
Energy).

5.3.3
Rotary drum or disc brush chippers not equipped with a mechanical infeed system
shall be equipped with an infeed hopper not less than 85 inches (2.15 m)
measured from the blades or knives to ground level over the center line of the
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measured from the blades or knives to ground level over the center line of the
hopper. Chippers with a mechanical infeed system shall also have a hopper not

less than 85 inches (2.15 m) measured from the pinch point of the feeder wheels
to ground level over the center line of the hopper. Side members of the infeed
hopper shall have sufficient height so as to prevent workers from contacting the
blades or
knives during operations.

5.3.4
Rotary drum or disc brush chippers not equipped with a mechanical infeed system
shall have a flexible anti-kickback device installed in the infeed hopper to reduce
the risk of injury from flying chips and debris.

5.3.5
Chippers equipped with a mechanical infeed system shall have a quick-stop and
reversing device on the infeed system. The activating mechanism for the quick-
stop and reversing device shall be located across the top, along each side, and
close to the feed end of the infeed
hopper within easy reach of the worker.

5.3.6
Vision, hearing, and other appropriate personal protective equipment shall be worn
when in proximity of an operating brush chipper, in accordance with Section 3.3,
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and as
defined by the Personal Protective
Equipment Hazard Certification.

5.3.7
Arborists, mechanics, and other workers shall not reach beyond the plane of the
infeed hopper when the cutter disc, rotary drum, or feed rollers are moving. If
maintenance is needed, all moving parts shall come to a complete stop and keys
shall be removed from the ignition and pocketed by the authorized person before
proceeding. See Annex C.2, Control of Hazardous Energy.

5.3.8
For additional requirements, see Section 8.7, Brush Removal and Chipping.

5.4 Sprayers and Related Equipment

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5.4.1

The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.4.2
Working and walking surfaces of all sprayers and related equipment shall be
covered with skidresistant material.

5.4.3
Equipment on which the applicator/operator stands while the vehicle is in motion
shall be equipped with guardrails around the working area. Guardrails shall be
constructed in accordance with ANSI A1264.1.

5.4.4
All fittings and hoses shall be of sufficient strength to withstand or exceed the
maximum pressure of the system. At no time should any part
of the body be used
to locate leaks or damaged sections of hose.

5.4.5
The operator shall be aware of the location and use of all safety shut-off valves.

5.4.6
All tanks shall have means to determine the level of liquid in the tanks without
opening the tank lid.

5.4.7
The applicator/operator shall make a visual inspection of hoses, fittings, exposed
plumbing, tanks, covers, and related equipment prior to its use each workday.

5.4.8
The applicator/operator shall not allow hoses or other parts of the equipment to
create a tripping hazard for coworkers or the public.

5.4.9
The applicator/operator shall have a firm grip on the spray gun/excavation tool
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The applicator/operator shall have a firm grip on the spray gun/excavation tool
when pulling the trigger.

5.4.10
Entering enclosed tanks or spaces shall be prohibited unless performed through a
confined-space entry plan in compliance with OSHA 1910.146 requirements,
which include atmospheric quality testing, training, personal protective equipment,
supervision, and emergency response procedures.

5.4.11
Related equipment

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The applicator/operator shall be aware of underground utility locations when
drilling holes in the ground for fertilizer or pesticide
applications. All
underground utility locations shall be determined by calling the ‘Call before you
Dig’ national telephone number 811.

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The equipment shall have splashguards, and the applicator shall wear eye
protection when injecting liquid fertilizer or pesticides into the ground.

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The applicator shall wear eye protection and follow label instructions when
injecting liquids into trees.

5.5 Stump Grinders

5.5.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.5.2
Stump grinders shall be equipped with enclosures or guards that reduce the risk of
injury during operation. Enclosures and guards shall be kept in place when the
grinding wheels are rotating or cutting.

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5.5.3

Arborists and other workers at the stump-grinding worksite shall wear

eye,
hearing, and other personal protective equipment in accordance with Section 3.3,
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

5.5.4
The operator shall be aware of underground utility locations, per Subsection 3.4.2,
prior to performing work. All work shall be in compliance with federal, state, and
local underground facility protection laws (e.g., Dig Safe or One-call Underground
Facility Locator
programs).

5.5.5
The operator shall ensure that all other persons remain clear of the stump grinder
while the cutting wheel is engaged, rotating, or grinding.

5.5.6
The operator shall ensure no secondary activities take place with the
stump
grinder, such as using the backfill blade, while the cutting wheel is engaged,
rotating, or cutting.

5.5.7
Where equipment has no remote control capabilities, the operator shall stay at the
controls during the operation of the stump grinder until the cutting wheel has
stopped.

5.5.8
On equipment with remote controls, the operator shall remain a safe working
distance as established by the employer or manufacturer, and clear of the
materials being discharged and the cutting wheel while it is engaged, rotating, or
grinding.

5.5.9
On equipment with tethered remote controls, the operator shall ensure
that the
operator and tether remain clear of the cutting wheel while it
is engaged, rotating,
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or grinding.

5.5.10
Before leaving the machine unattended, the operator shall ensure that
all moving
parts have stopped and the key is removed and pocketed. When
there is no keyed
ignition system, the employer’s procedures for securing the equipment shall be
followed.

5.5.11
The operator shall ensure that the grinding wheel is disengaged and has stopped
rotating prior to driving or moving the equipment.

5.5.12
Only employer-authorized personnel shall be permitted to perform maintenance.
See Annex C.2, Control of Hazardous Energy.

5.5.13
When not in use, keys shall be removed and pocketed by the authorized
person in
charge. When there is no keyed ignition system, the employer’s procedures for
securing the equipment shall be followed.

5.6 Vehicles

5.6.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.6.2
Regulated vehicles (those in excess of 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating,
or gross combined vehicle weight rating) shall be operated in compliance with the
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
(FMCSR), state, and local laws.

5.6.3
A steel bulkhead or equivalent protective device shall be provided to
protect
workers from load shifts in vehicles carrying logs or other material.

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5.6.4

Load securement procedures shall be followed to prevent accidental shifting or

discharge of logs or other materials from the vehicle during
transport.

5.6.5
Logs or other material shall not overhang the sides; obscure taillights, brake lights,
or vision; or exceed height limits per state and local requirements for bridges,
overpasses, utility lines, or other overhead hazards.

5.6.6
To avoid the hazard of spontaneous combustion, wood chips should not be left in
vehicles for extended periods.

5.7 Cranes and Knucklebooms

5.7.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.7.2
Cranes shall be inspected in accordance with ASME B30.5 or ASME B30.22
(articulating boom) standards and manufacturers’ guidelines. Rigging equipment
shall be inspected before each use in accordance with OSHA 1910.184 and
manufacturers’ guidelines.

5.7.3
Operators of hoisting equipment shall be trained and shall maintain a
10-foot
(3.05-m) minimum approach distance from unguarded, overhead energized
conductors, or greater separation in accordance with Table 1 of this standard. A
spotter shall be used when work is being performed that could encroach on
minimum approach distances from energized conductors. The spotter shall be
positioned to effectively gauge the clearance distance and give timely information
to the qualified crane operator.

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5.7.4
Only a qualified crane operator shall be used.

5.7.5
Cranes shall be equipped to comply with the design standards published in ASME
B30.5 or ASME B30.22 (for articulating booms).

5.7.6
Hooks on overhaul ball assemblies, lower load blocks, or other attachment
assemblies shall be of a type that can be closed and locked, eliminating the hook
throat opening.

5.7.7
Crane operators shall remain at the controls while a load is suspended.

5.7.8
Tree sections shall be rigged to minimize load shifting. Controlled load lowering
shall be used. Shock-loading shall be avoided, and free fall is prohibited.

5.7.9
The qualified crane operator and the arborist in charge shall meet prior to the work
to review procedures to be followed. If the work involves a spotter/signal person
and/or an additional qualified arborist
being hoisted by the crane, these persons
shall participate in the review as well. A job briefing shall be done before any work
begins in accordance with Subsection 3.4.3.

5.7.10
Cranes shall be set up in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications.

5.7.11
A qualified arborist may be hoisted into position utilizing a crane if he/she is tied in
with an arborist climbing line and arborist saddle
and secured to an anchor
point on or above the crane hook or to the crane boom. The following procedures
shall be followed when a qualified arborist is to be hoisted by a crane:

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Only a qualified arborist shall authorize the use of a crane for hoisting a qualified
arborist into position when he/she has determined that it is the safest and/or
only feasible method to perform the work or
to gain access to a tree.

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The arborist climbing line shall be secured to the crane in such a way that it
does not interfere with the function of any of the crane’s components.

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No part of the crane shall be allowed to compromise the climbing line or any
component of the climbing system.

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The qualified arborist shall use a second point of attachment on or above the
crane hook or to the crane boom while being hoisted into position in the tree.

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Continuous communication between the crane operator and the qualified
arborist being hoisted shall be maintained, either directly or through a
spotter/signal person, using two-way radio, vocal communication, or accepted
hand signals (see Annex G, Hand Signal Chart for Crane Operations).

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The qualified crane operator shall remain at the controls while the qualified
arborist is attached to the crane.

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When the qualified arborist is being hoisted, hoisting speed shall not exceed
100 feet/minute (0.5 m/sec). During hoisting operations, there shall be no
sudden acceleration or deceleration of the moving load.

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Controlled load lowering is required and free fall of the load line hoist is
prohibited if an employee is being hoisted.

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The crane carrier shall not travel at any time while a qualified arborist is
attached.

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An accurate estimation of the load radius to be used during lifting shall be
made before a qualified arborist is hoisted.

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The qualified arborist shall be detached from the crane any time a load is
suspended.

EXCEPTION
When it has been determined that all reasonably possible alternate methods are
inaccessible and attachment to the subject tree would create
a greater safety
risk due to its hazardous condition, the qualified crane operator and the qualified
arborist shall allow the qualified arborist to remain attached to the crane while a
load is suspended. Possible alternate methods include, but are not limited to:

a. the qualified arborist securing to the tree and detaching from the crane before
it comes under load;
b. using a second crane;
c. using an aerial lift device; or
d. using an adjacent tree.

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When the qualified arborist is attached to the crane with a
suspended load,
the total weight shall not exceed 50 percent of the load capacity for the radius
and configuration of the crane.

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The qualified arborist shall descend to the ground as soon
as he/she has
determined that the piece is detached from the tree and that it is safe to do
so.
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5.7.12

The qualified arborist shall estimate the weight of the tree section to be suspended
prior to cutting the section. The load weight estimate shall be communicated to the
crane operator. After the pick is complete,
the crane operator should verify,
compare, and communicate the estimated weight to the qualified arborist. A green
log weight chart (as
shown in Annex E, Weight of Green Logs) shall be available to
the crew.
The suspended load should not exceed 75 percent of the load chart
capacity of the crane.

5.7.13
Radio communication between the qualified arborist and qualified crane operator
shall be used during blind picks. Radio communication shall be hands-free.

5.8 Specialized Units

5.8.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.8.2
Off-road and tracked vehicles shall be operated according to the operating
environment and the manufacturers’ instructions and guidelines.

5.8.3
Towing equipment for brush hogs and similar implements should be equipped
with a deadman control.
When deadman controls are not available, the worker
shall disengage the
power source to the rotary or cutter head before dismounting.

5.9 Equipment-Mounted Winches

5.9.1
The items contained in Section 5.1, Vehicles and Mobile Equipment, shall always
be included in the review of this section.

5.9.2
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Each day before being used, the winch line and all fastenings and attachments
shall be inspected for damage or defects by a qualified person. Additional
inspections shall be performed during winch line use,
where service conditions
warrant. Damaged or defective winch lines shall be immediately removed from
service.

5.9.3
Winch line hooks and attachment points shall be inspected for damage.
Damaged
hooks or attachment assemblies shall be taken out of service.

5.9.4
All mounting bolts and hardware shall be inspected for loose or missing
components. The winch shall not be used until complete repairs are made to
damaged or missing bolts and hardware.

5.9.5
Operators shall be aware of the hazards of load or winch line breakage and ensure
that all personnel remain clear of the recoil area in the event of load or winch line
breakage.

5.9.6
All winch operators shall be properly trained and be aware of the inherent dangers
associated with winch operations.

5.9.7
Operators shall be aware of the winch line at all times during extension and ensure
that it does not become a hazard to personnel or machinery.

5.9.8
Winch systems and winch lines shall be used only as intended and instructed by
the manufacturer.

5.9.9
A i h li h ld tb d d l d D i i hi
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A winch line should not be wrapped around a load. During winching operations of
loads that do not have a manufactured attachment point, the load should be
secured using a sling.

5.9.10
The winch shall never be used with personnel, including the operator, within the
span of the winch line and the winch.

5.9.11
Pinch point hazards develop during winching operations; therefore, all operators
involved in the winching operation shall constantly be aware of such hazards and
stand clear of these areas.

5.9.12
All loads shall be pulled in such a manner as to avoid angles that may result in
tipping, cause the vehicle to become unstable, or result in unintended movement
of the vehicle.

5.9.13
Pulling loads from the side requires special equipment and techniques. Therefore,
loads shall be pulled in line with the winch unless the winch is properly equipped
with a fair lead and the operator is trained to pull loads at an angle.

5.9.14
The operator shall ensure that the vehicle supporting the winch is secured to avoid
unintended movement.

5.9.15
The operator shall ensure that all rigging points comply with Section 8.5, Rigging.

5.9.16
An effective means of communication shall be established and used with all
workers involved in the winching operations (see Subsection 8.5.11).

5.9.17
Winch lines shall be compatible with the winch design and shall meet
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Winch lines shall be compatible with the winch design and shall meet
manufacturers’ specifications.

5.9.18
When using a winch in chipper operations, the operator shall ensure that the winch
line is properly stored before initiating chipper operations.

EXCEPTION
A winch line may be used to assist with positioning material onto the
feed table
and infeed hopper. Once the material has been positioned, the winch line must
be properly stored before continuing chipping operations.

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Section 6

PORTABLE POWER HAND TOOLS

6.1 General

6.1.1
All applicable requirements in Section 3, General Safety Requirements, shall apply
to this section.

6.1.2
The purpose of this section is to provide guidelines for arborists and other workers
pertaining to the safe use and care of portable power hand tools.

6.1.3
The employer should follow the manufacturers’ operating, maintenance,
and safety
instructions, unless the employer demonstrates that a greater hazard is posed by
following the manufacturers’ instructions.

6.1.4
Before starting or operating portable power hand tools, the operators
shall
communicate with and ensure that all other workers are clear of the equipment,
the swing arc of the cutting attachment, and the immediate worksite.

6.1.5
Communication shall be established between the arborists working aloft, either in
a tree or from an aerial device, and arborists and other workers on the ground,
before starting or otherwise using any portable power hand tools. The command
“stand clear” from aloft and the response “clear” from the ground are terms that
may be used for this purpose. Pre-arranged, two-way hand signals may also be
used. Workers shall stay out of the drop zone until it has been communicated by
the qualified arborist, qualified arborist trainee, or worker aloft that it is safe to
enter.
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6.1.6
When a chain saw or power hand tool is carried aloft and is not in use, it shall be
secured against falling.

6.2 Portable Electric Power Tools

6.2.1
The items contained in Section 6.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

6.2.2
Corded electric power tools shall not be used in trees or aerial devices near
energized electrical conductors where there is a possibility of power tools or supply
cords contacting the conductor.

6.2.3
All corded portable electric power tools shall be:

a. equipped with three-wire cords having the ground wire permanently

connected to the tool frame and a means for grounding the other end; or
b. double insulated and permanently labeled as “double insulated”; or
c. connected to power supplies by means of an isolating transformer or other
isolated power supply.

6.2.4
Extension cords shall be maintained in safe condition. Exposed metal sockets
shall not be used.

6.2.5
Arborists and other workers shall prevent cords from becoming entangled,
damaged, or cut by blades and bits and shall avoid laying extension cords in
water.

6.3 Chain Saws

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6.3.1

The items contained in Section 6.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

6.3.2
Chain saws shall not be operated unless the manufacturers’ safety devices are in
proper working order. Chain saw safety devices shall not be removed or modified.

6.3.3
A stable body position shall be maintained when starting a chain saw.

6.3.4
Drop-starting a chain saw is prohibited. A chain saw
shall be started with the
chain brake engaged and the operator holding the saw firmly in a manner that
minimizes movement of the saw when pulling the starter handle.

6.3.5
A chain saw shall be operated with two hands at all times, one hand on each
handle with thumbs wrapped around the handles.

[Link]
The operator shall operate the chain saw with the left hand and thumb
gripped
firmly around the forward handle and the right hand and thumb gripped firmly
around the rear handle, unless it is not practicable, and
the employer
demonstrates that a greater hazard is posed by operating the chain saw that
way in that particular situation.

6.3.6
Arborists shall be tied in and use a second means of being secured [e.g., lanyard
(work-positioning lanyard)
or second climbing line] when operating a chain saw
in a tree. Using two work-positioning lanyards or both ends of a two-in-one work-
positioning lanyard shall not be considered acceptable as two means
of being
secured when using a chain saw in a tree.

EXCEPTION
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EXCEPTION

When the employer demonstrates that a greater hazard is posed by using a

second means of being secured while operating a chain saw in that particular
situation.

6.3.7
The chain brake shall be engaged or the engine shut off before setting a chain saw
down.

6.3.8
When a chain saw is being carried more than two steps, the chain brake shall be
engaged or the engine shut off. The chain saw shall be carried in a manner that
will prevent operator contact with the cutting chain and the muffler.

6.3.9
The chain saw operator shall be certain of a stable body position before starting to
cut. The chain saw shall not be used in a position or
at a distance that could cause
the operator to become off-balance, have
insecure footing, or relinquish a firm grip
on the saw. A chain saw shall not be used above shoulder height unless the
employer demonstrates
that a greater hazard is posed by operating the chain saw
that way in that particular situation.

6.4 Powered Pole Tools and Backpack Power Units

6.4.1
The items contained in Section 6.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

6.4.2
Powered pole tools with poles made of metal or other conductive material shall not
be used in operations where electrical hazards exist.
See Subsection 8.3.5 of this
standard.

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Section 7

HAND TOOLS AND LADDERS

7.1 General

7.1.1
All applicable requirements in Section 3, General Safety Requirements, shall apply
to this section.

7.1.2
Correct hand tools and equipment shall be selected for the job.

7.1.3
Hand tools and equipment that have been made unsafe by damage or defect,
including tools with loose or cracked heads or cracked, splintered, or weakened
handles, shall not be used.

7.1.4
Workers shall maintain a safe working distance from other workers when using
hand tools and equipment.

7.1.5
When climbing into a tree, arborists shall not carry hand tools and equipment in
their hands unless the tools are used to assist them in climbing. Tools other than
ropes or throwlines shall not be thrown into a
tree or between workers aloft.

7.1.6
Arborist climbing lines or handlines (line, handline)
may be used for raising and
lowering hand tools and equipment. Arborists should raise or lower hand tools and
equipment in a manner such that the cutting edge will not contact the arborist
climbing line or handline.

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7.1.7

Hand tools and equipment shall be properly stored or placed in plain sight out of
the immediate worksite when not in use.

7.2 Cant Hooks, Cant Dogs, Peaveys, and Tongs

7.2.1
The items contained in Section 7.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

7.2.2
Cant hooks, cant dogs, peaveys, and tongs should be firmly set before applying
force.

7.2.3
Points of hooks shall be at least 2 inches (5 cm) long and kept sharp.

7.2.4
Arborists and other workers shall always stand uphill from rolling logs, and all
workers shall be warned and in the clear before logs are moved.

7.3 Wedges, Chisels, and Gouges

7.3.1
The items contained in Section 7.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

7.3.2
Wedges, chisels, and gouges shall be inspected for cracks and flaws before use.
Tools with damaged heads shall not be used.

7.3.3
Wedges and chisels shall be properly pointed and tempered.

7.3.4
Eye protection shall be used during impact operations
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Eye protection shall be used during impact operations.

7.3.5
Only wood, plastic, or soft-metal wedges shall be used while operating chain saws.

7.3.6
Wood-handled chisels should be protected with a ferrule on the striking end.

7.3.7
Wood, rubber, or high-impact plastic mauls, sledges, or hammers should be used
when striking wood-handled chisels or gouges.

7.4 Chopping Tools

7.4.1
The items contained in Section 7.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section.

7.4.2
Chopping tools should not be used while working aloft.

7.4.3
Chopping tools shall not be used as wedges or used to drive metal wedges.

7.4.4
Chopping tools shall be swung away from the feet, legs, and body, using the
minimum force practical for function and control.

7.4.5
When swinging tools such as grub hoes, mattocks, and axes, a secure grip, firm
footing, and clearance of workers and overhead hazards shall be maintained.

7.5 Ladders

7.5.1
The items contained in Section 7.1, General, shall always be included in the
review of this section
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review of this section.

7.5.2
Ladders made of metal or other conductive material shall not be used where
electrical hazards exist. Only wooden ladders (constructed in accordance with
ANSI A14.1) or nonconductive ladders made of synthetic material equal to or
exceeding the strength of wooden ladders shall be used.

7.5.3
Metal ladders used where no electrical hazard exists shall conform to ANSI A14.2.

7.5.4
All ladders shall be inspected before use and removed from service if found
defective.

7.5.5
Cleats, metal points, skid-resistant feet, lashing, or other effective means of
securing the ladder shall be used when there is danger of slipping.

7.5.6
Ladders shall not be used as bridges or inclined planes to load or handle logs or
other material.

7.5.7
Ladders shall be supported while in storage to prevent sagging. Except when on
mobile equipment, ladders should be stored under suitable
cover, protected from
the weather, and kept in a dry location away from
excessive heat.

7.5.8
The third, or hinged, leg of a tripod/orchard ladder shall be braced or fastened
when on hard or slick surfaces.

7.5.9
All ladders shall be used in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations
and shall not be altered in a way that contradicts those
recommendations.
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Section 8

WORK PROCEDURES

8.1 Climbing Procedures

8.1.1
All applicable requirements in Section 3, General Safety Requirements, shall apply
to this section.

8.1.2
A second arborist, an arborist trainee, or other worker trained in emergency
procedures shall be within visual or voice communication during arboricultural
operations above 12 feet (3.65 m) that are not subject to the requirements of
Subsection 4.3.9.

8.1.3
Arborists shall inspect climbing lines, worklines (line, workline),
work-positioning
lanyards, and other climbing equipment for damage, cuts, abrasion, and/or
deterioration before each use and shall remove them from service, per
manufacturers’ guidelines if applicable, if signs
of excessive wear or damage are
found. Climbing lines or worklines that
are removed from service may be used for
other noncritical purposes if deemed suitable for such use by a qualified person.

8.1.4
While working aloft, the climber shall have available a climbing line
and at least
one other means of being secured on his/her person at all times (e.g., an arborist
climbing line and a workpositioning lanyard). Two means of being secured shall be
used when the climber determines that it is advantageous.

8.1.5
The climber shall have a hand saw available while working aloft. Hand
saws aloft
shall either have a scabbard or be of the folding type that covers the cutting teeth
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when closed.

8.1.6
The arborist shall be secured at all times while ascending the tree, including when
using climbing spurs/gaffs. The arborist shall be tied in
once the work begins and
shall remain tied in until the work is completed and he/she has returned to the
ground. The arborist shall be secured when repositioning the climbing line. When
repositioning, the arborist shall preload the new tie-in point with his/her full weight
before releasing the current means of being secured.

8.1.7
While ascending a ladder to gain access to a tree, the arborist shall
not work from
or leave the ladder until he/she is tied in or secured.

8.1.8
Hands and feet should be placed on separate limbs, if possible, and three points of
contact should be maintained with the tree while climbing.

8.1.9
A false crotch and/or false-crotch redirect may be used at the discretion of the
arborist in lieu of a natural crotch.

8.1.10
The climber shall select a tie-in-point/primary suspension point that prevents
lateral movement of the climbing line.

8.1.11
When installing the climbing line or false crotch from the ground, it
should be
positioned in a suitable location along the main stem/leader/lateral limb. The
climber shall visually inspect the anchor point for condition from the ground and, if
suitable, shall subject it to a load approximately twice the weight of the climber
before climbing commences.

8.1.12
The tie-in point should be positioned so that the arborist will not be subjected to an
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uncontrolled pendulum swing.

8.1.13
When an arborist is working at heights greater than one-half the length of the
arborist climbing line, a stopper knot shall be tied in the end of the arborist climbing
line to prevent pulling the line through the climbing hitch.

8.1.14
Arborists working from a stem or spar without a suitable natural crotch shall select
tie-in points or a tie-in method that positively prevents the climbing line from sliding
down or up or off the stem during climbing operations. Placing a climbing line
around a
stem in an area without a lateral limb is not acceptable unless the
climbing line is cinched or choked around the stem or runs through a double
wrapped or adjustable false crotch, which is secured/cinched around the stem.
The tie-in point selected shall be able to withstand the forces being applied during
the pruning/removal operation.

8.1.15
If a climbing line is damaged in the course of operations, the arborist shall secure
himself/herself with a work-positioning lanyard and immediately replace the
damaged line.

8.1.16
The ground crew shall keep the climbing line free of debris and obstructions,
protect it from damage, and report any damage to the arborist.

8.1.17
The arborist shall check his/her climbing line beneath the climbing hitch for
damage while descending.

8.2 Ropes and Arborist Equipment

8.2.1
Climbing lines used in a split-tail system and split-tails shall be terminated with an
eye splice or a knot that interfaces appropriately with the connecting link. When
using a carabiner without a captive eye the termination selected shall maintain
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using a carabiner without a captive eye, the termination selected shall maintain
loading along the major axis. The connection between carabiners and terminated

rope ends shall be compatible to limit the possibility of accidental disconnection or

minor axis loading of carabiners.

8.2.2
The arborist shall assure that arborist saddles and climbing gaffs/spurs comply
with an appropriate governing standard, and shall be marked accordingly on the
product, when new (e.g., arborist saddles marked ASTM F887 if manufactured
after 1/1/2018).

8.2.3
Arborist saddles and work-positioning lanyards shall not be altered in a manner
that would compromise the integrity of the equipment.

8.2.4
Arborist climbing lines used for moving rope systems
shall have a minimum
diameter of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) and be constructed from a synthetic fiber, with a
minimum breaking strength of 5,400 pounds
(24.02 kilonewtons [kN]) without
terminations when new. Maximum working elongation shall not exceed 7 percent
at a load of 540 pounds (2.402 kN). Arborist climbing lines shall be identified by
the manufacturer as suitable for tree climbing.

EXCEPTION
In arboricultural operations not subject to regulations that supersede Z133, a
line of not less than 7/16 inch (11 mm) diameter may be used, provided the
employer can demonstrate it does not create a safety hazard for the arborist
and the arborist has been instructed in its use. The line selected shall meet or
exceed the standards for arborist climbing lines and shall be identified by the
manufacturer as suitable for tree climbing.

8.2.5
Arborist climbing lines used for stationary rope systems shall conform to the
diameter, construction, strength, and elongation standards of Subsection 8.2.4 and
shall be compatible with the components used in the stationary rope system.
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8.2.6
Prusik loops, split-tails, doubled-hitch cords, and work-positioning lanyards used
in a climbing system shall meet the minimum breaking strength of 5,400 pounds.

[Link]
Hitch cords, Prusik loops, and split-tails shall be manufactured from
material(s)
suitably resistant to the abrasion and temperatures experienced during work
and rescue scenarios.

8.2.7
Snap hooks (rope snaps) used as part of a climber’s work-positioning (suspension)
system shall be self-closing and self-locking, with a minimum tensile strength of
5,000 pounds (22.24 kN).

8.2.8
Carabiners used as part of a climber’s work-positioning (suspension) system shall
be self-closing and self-double locking and shall have a gate-locking mechanism
that requires at least two consecutive, deliberate actions to unlock. A carabiner
shall be capable of withstanding a 5,000 pound (22.24 kN) load along its major
axis with the
gate closed without breaking or distortion sufficient to release the
gate.

8.2.9
Carabiners and snap hooks used as part of a climber’s fall protection
(work-
positioning/suspension/fall-arrest system) shall not be linked together unless
designed to do so and accepted by the manufacturer.

8.2.10
Load-rated screw links used as part of a climber’s work-positioning (suspension)
system shall have a tensile strength of 5,000 pounds (22.24
kN) and shall be
securely tightened to ensure they will not unintentionally open during use.

8.2.11
Splicing shall be done in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications.
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8.2.12
Equipment used to secure an arborist in a tree or to an aerial device
shall not be
used for anything other than its intended purpose.

EXCEPTION
An arborist’s climbing line may be used to raise and lower lightweight tools and
equipment such as chain saws, hand tools, and additional lines.

8.2.13
Rope ends shall be finished in a manner to prevent raveling.

8.2.14
Ropes and climbing equipment shall be stored and transported in such a
manner
to prevent damage through contact with sharp tools, cutting edges, gas, oil, or
chemicals.

8.2.15
Arborist climbing lines shall never be left in trees unattended.

8.2.16
Climbing spurs shall have gaffs of the type and length suitable for the tree being
climbed. Manufacturers’ recommendations for inspection, maintenance,
sharpening, and replacing worn gaffs shall be followed.

8.2.17
The non-working end of any work-positioning lanyard shall have a fixed
termination such as a fixed stopper knot, eye splice, snap, carabiner, or other
hardware that does not permit the non-working end of
the lanyard to advance
through the friction device, or it shall be securely connected to a rated connection
point on the climbing saddle.

8.3 Pruning and Trimming

8.3.1
Pruning should be conducted in accordance with the ANSI A300 (Part 1) standard.
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g ( )

8.3.2
The arborist in charge shall establish a safe work plan to manage the
drop zone.
Communications among arborists aloft and other workers on the ground shall be
established before cutting and dropping limbs. The command “stand clear” from
aloft and the response “all clear” from the ground are terms that may be used for
this purpose. Pre-arranged, two-way hand signals may also be used. Arborists and
other workers returning to the drop zone shall be acknowledged by arborists aloft.

8.3.3
Pole pruners and pole saws, when hung, shall be securely positioned to prevent
dislodgment. Pole pruners or pole saws shall not be hung on electrical conductors
or left in a tree unattended. Pole saws and pole pruners shall be hung so that
sharp edges are away from the arborist and
shall be removed when the arborist
leaves the tree.

8.3.4
Scabbards or sheaths shall be used to carry hand saws. Folding hand saws, when
not in use, shall be stowed in a manner that protects the worker and others from
the cutting edge.

8.3.5
Pole tools used in proximity to energized conductors shall be constructed with
fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) or wooden poles meeting the requirements of
OSHA 1910.269(r)(1)(iv).

8.3.6
Limbs that cannot be safely controlled by hand or free-dropped shall have a
separate rigging line attached to them to help control their fall. Rigging practices
shall conform to the requirements in Section 8.5, Rigging, of this standard.

8.3.7
Dry conditions and dead palm fronds present an extreme fire hazard. When dry
conditions exist, arborists and other workers shall not smoke while working in or
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near dead palm fronds. All chain saws used under such conditions shall have
mufflers and spark arresters in good working condition.

8.3.8
Palm frond skirts shall be removed from the top down. Arborists performing this
work while climbing shall be supported by an arborist climbing system, and when
possible, positioned above the skirt. Arborists should not remove palm skirts by
positioning themselves below the frond skirt or between the palm skirt and the
trunk of the tree.

8.3.9
Cut branches, tools, and equipment shall be removed from trees upon completion
of work.

8.4 Cabling

8.4.1
Cabling should be conducted in accordance with the ANSI A300 (Part 3) standard.

8.4.2
Arborists and other workers on the ground shall not stand in the drop zone when a
cabling system is being installed.

8.4.3
Tools used for cabling shall be carried in a bag, placed on a belt designed to hold
such tools, or securely attached to a lanyard (tool lanyard) to prevent the tools
from falling.

8.4.4
When installing or replacing a support system, the load shall be released onto the
new support system in a slow and controlled manner to help prevent sudden or
dynamic loading.

8.4.5
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When a previously installed support system is to be removed or replaced, it shall

not be removed until a new support system is installed to take the weight off of the
previously installed system, or until a temporary support system has been installed
to slacken the previously installed system.

8.5 Rigging

8.5.1
Arborists performing rigging operations shall inspect trees for their
integrity to
determine whether the trees have any visible defect that could affect the operation.
If it is determined that the tree poses a risk of failure due to the forces and strains
that will be created by the design of the rigging operation, an alternate plan shall
be used.

8.5.2
Rigging points shall be assessed for their structural integrity by a qualified arborist.
The work plan and the tree shall be considered relative to the forces being applied
to any part of the tree, including branch attachments and anchoring roots, before a
rigging point is chosen
and established.

8.5.3
Arborists performing rigging operations shall be trained to estimate the potential
forces at any point in the rigging system being used. The system components shall
comply with working-load limits relative to the operation and the maximum
potential forces.

8.5.4
Careful consideration shall be given to the potential for additional forces resulting
from the influences of rigging design, rope angles, and
the number of lines and/or
line parts that will act on any rigging or anchor point.

8.5.5
A qualified arborist shall ensure that load ratings shown on the rigging equipment
or provided by the manufacturer for all ropes connecting links and rigging
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or provided by the manufacturer for all ropes, connecting links, and rigging
equipment are observed in all rigging operations. Rigging equipment shall be

chosen for the specific task based on working-load limits and design
specifications. If a carabiner is used in a rigging system, loading of the gate and/or
the minor axis of the carabiner shall be prevented.

8.5.6
The number of connecting links used for connecting components of a rigging
system shall be minimized when possible. Arborists shall ensure that shackles,
screw links, and other connecting links interface properly and are in compliance
with manufacturers’ recommendations.

8.5.7
All equipment used for rigging operations shall be in good working condition.
Rigging equipment and its connecting links shall be inspected
immediately before
use and removed from service if found to be defective, damaged, or overloaded.

8.5.8
When the potential exists for rigging equipment to be confused with climbing
equipment, the equipment shall be clearly marked to indicate its different
purposes.

8.5.9
When establishing a rigging point horizontally distant from the parent limb or main
tree stem, the arborist should consider the need to provide additional support to
help disperse the force of the proposed rigged load.

Options may include:

a. Use of a backstay to support the load-bearing rigging point by placing an

appropriately rated rope from the limb used as the load-bearing rigging point
back to a higher point on the main trunk of the tree or other higher and
suitable limb; or
b. Installation of an additional and separate rigging system that utilizes
supporting members, other than those already in use by the primary lowering
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point, in an effort to have both rigging systems share the load force.

8.5.10
Workers aloft (either climbing the tree or from an aerial device) shall establish a
communication system with arborists and other workers on the ground.

8.5.11
A method of verbal, audible, or visual communication shall be discussed and
established during the job briefing prior to the start of removal or rigging
operations. The verbal, audible, or visual communication system shall use an
established command-and-response system (see example) or pre-arranged, two-
way hand signals. The communication method shall be clearly understood and
used during all rigging operations.

Example (but not limited to):

Command:

Stand clear!

Response:

Clear!
Underneath!
or

Stop!

8.5.12
A drop zone shall be established prior to the start of rigging operations. Workers
shall stay out of the drop zone until it has been communicated by a qualified
arborist, a qualified arborist trainee, or the worker aloft directly involved in the
rigging operation that it is safe to enter.

8.5.13
Only qualified arborists or qualified arborist trainees directly involved in the
operation shall be permitted in the drop zone when a load is being suspended by
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the rigging system.

8.5.14
Taglines (line, tagline) or other means may be used to help control and handle
suspended loads.

8.5.15
Ground workers involved in handling rigging lines shall not be underneath moving
or suspended loads and should be out of the drop zone when practical.

8.5.16
Workers aloft shall position themselves above or to the side of the piece being
rigged and out of the path of movement of the piece and attached rigging when the
piece has been cut. Climbers shall have a retreat/escape plan prepared.

8.5.17
Climbers and their climbing systems shall not make contact with moving or
swinging parts of the rigging system when making a release cut
or when the load
is moving. Rigging systems shall not compromise any part of the climbing system.

8.5.18
Steps shall be taken to prevent spars from splitting or tearing during the rigging
operation, and climbers shall take steps to avoid trapping, pinning, or entangling
themselves in the system should the tree split or the rigging fail. Load binders are
one possible means of preventing splitting.

8.5.19
A hand saw shall be with a worker aloft to make or finish cuts.

8.6 Tree Removal

8.6.1
Before beginning any tree removal operation, the chain saw operator and/or crew
leader
shall carefully consider relevant factors pertaining to the tree and site and
shall take appropriate actions to ensure a safe removal operation. Factors to
include may be but are not limited to tree decay tree lean and wind (see Annex
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include may be, but are not limited to, tree decay, tree lean, and wind (see Annex
C.3, Manual Tree Felling Procedure, for a more inclusive list).

8.6.2
The crew leader shall assess the number of workers necessary for the tree
removal operations, develop a tree removal work plan, and communicate the work
plan and job task assignments in a job briefing with the crew prior to beginning the
tree removal work. In addition, a method of verbal, audible, or visual
communication as set forth in Subsection 8.5.11 shall be discussed and
established during the job briefing prior to the start of tree removal operations.

8.6.3
A drop zone shall be established prior to the start of piecing-down tree removal
operations. Workers shall stay out of the drop zone until it has been communicated
by a qualified arborist, a qualified arborist trainee, or the worker aloft directly
involved in the piecing-down tree removal operation that it is safe to enter.

8.6.4
In manual tree felling operations, non-involved workers shall be positioned at a
distance from the tree at least two (2.0) times the height of the tree or trunk being
removed until the chain saw operator and/or crew leader communicates that it is
safe to approach more closely. Involved workers other than the chain saw
operator, including but not limited to those who handle ropes/taglines, come-
alongs/winches, etc., shall be positioned at a distance from the tree at least one-
and-one-half (1.5) times the height of the tree or trunk being removed until the
chain saw operator and/or crew leader communicates that it is safe to approach
more closely.

8.6.5
A planned retreat/escape path for all workers involved in the tree removal
operation shall be prepared before piecing down tree parts or manual tree felling.

[Link]
During manual tree felling, the preferred retreat/escape path for the
chain saw
operator is 45 degrees on either side of a line drawn opposite the intended
direction of the fall.
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[Link]
To the extent practical, the retreat/escape path shall be cleared of obstructions
and objects that would hinder retreat.

[Link]
The chain saw operator shall use this path for egress once the felling cuts have
been completed or the tree begins to fall.

[Link]
Other involved workers shall have and use retreat/escape paths that do not
hinder other retreating workers or expose any involved workers to
increased
hazard.

8.6.6
When it is necessary to use rigging to shorten or remove branches or to block
down pieces of the tree, the qualified arborist shall consider whether the tree can
withstand the strain of the lowering procedures. If
the qualified arborist determines
that the tree cannot withstand the strain of the lowering procedures, other means
of removing the tree shall be implemented.

8.6.7
A rope should be attached to all trees and stems greater than 5 inches (12.7 cm)
in diameter at breast height (dbh) being felled to provide stabilization and/or
directional pull where assisted directional felling is required.

8.6.8
When there is a risk of damage to property from a tree piece or tree falling in an
unintended direction, rope(s), block and tackle, come-alongs/winches, wire cable
(except where an electrical hazard exists), or other appropriate devices shall be
used to control the direction of fall.

[Link]
Loaders, skid steers, or other heavy equipment shall not be used to push over
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trees that are being manually felled while any worker is within 1-1/2 times the
height of the tree being felled. The heavy equipment being utilized shall be of
the appropriate size for the task and shall offer appropriate protection for the
operator.

8.6.9
Wedges should be used when determined to be necessary to prevent binding of
the guide bar or chain when felling trees or stems. Wedges may be used as an aid
in directional tree felling.

8.6.10
All equipment used for tree removal operations shall be in good working condition.
Tree removal equipment and its connecting links shall
be inspected immediately
before use and removed from service if found to be defective, damaged, or
overloaded.

8.6.11
Tree limbs shall be removed to a height and width sufficient to allow
the tree parts
or tree to fall clear of hazards, such as utility wires and/or other objects in the
vicinity.

8.6.12
During manual tree felling operations, notches shall be used on all trees and
trunks greater than 5 inches (12.7 cm) dbh.

8.6.13
When manually felling trees, notches and back cuts shall be made at a height that
enables the chain saw operator to safely begin the cut, control the tree or trunk,
and have freedom of movement toward a retreat/escape path.

[Link]
The two cuts that form the notch shall meet at a point called the apex and shall
not cross that point or go beyond the point where they meet.

[Link]
Th t h t d h ll b f t h ti l
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The notch cut used shall be an open-face notch, a conventional notch, or a
Humboldt notch.
[Link]
Notches shall be 45 degrees or greater and wide enough to guide the fall of the
tree or trunk.

[Link]
Notch depth should not exceed one-third the diameter of the tree.

[Link]
Saw cuts made to form the notch and back cut shall leave suitable hinge wood
to adequately control the fall of the tree.

[Link]
With an open-face notch (greater than 70 degrees), the back cut should be at
the same level as the apex of the notch. With a conventional notch or Humboldt
notch, the back cut shall be 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) above the apex of the
notch to provide an adequate platform to reduce kickback potential of the tree or
trunk.

8.6.14
The hazard of barber chair should be considered when
cutting trees under
tension. Steps to prevent the sudden splitting of trunk wood should be taken.
Preventive steps may include, but are not limited to, various back cut methods;
wrapping a ratchet strap, rope, or
chain around the tree above the notch and back
cut area; or relieving the tension in or on the tree by slackening pull ropes or
removing upper
parts of the tree prior to felling.

8.6.15
Before making the back cut, there shall be a command such as “stand clear” from
the arborist operating the chain saw and a response such as “clear” from the
workers supporting the removal operation. Pre-arranged,
two-way hand signals or
two-way audible devices such as air horn or whistle signals may also be used.
Only designated persons shall give such signals.

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8.6.16

During manual tree felling operations, involved workers shall keep visual contact
with the tree or trunk until it is on the ground.

EXCEPTION
When the tree or trunk begins to fall, the worker at the base of the tree shall
immediately move a safe distance away from the tree or trunk using the
retreat/escape path.

8.6.17
Workers shall not approach closer than manufacturers’ or employers’ specified
distances to mechanical operations, such as a rotary or flail mower, or boom-
mounted saws, until all cutting has halted and the equipment operator has
acknowledged that it is safe to do so.

8.7 Brush Removal and Chipping

8.7.1
Prior to the start of chipping operations, vehicular and pedestrian traffic control
around the work zone shall be established in accordance with applicable local,
state, or federal requirements. See Section 3.5, Traffic Control.

8.7.2
Brush and logs shall be placed in such a way that does not create hazards in the
worksite.

8.7.3
Loose-fitting items that could create an entanglement hazard (e.g., clothing,
jewelry), aerial lift or climbing equipment, improperly worn PPE, or gauntlet-type
gloves, shall not be worn while operating chippers.

8.7.4
Personal protective equipment shall be worn when on the worksite of chipping
operations in accordance with Section 3.3, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE),
of this standard
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of this standard.

8.7.5
During chipping operations, workers shall ensure that all throwlines and climbing
and rigging lines are clear of the chipping area.

8.7.6
Only persons trained in safe chipper operation may operate chippers. Training
shall include, but is not limited to, inspection, starting, stopping, feeding, and
shutdown. Training shall be provided for each type of chipper being used.

8.7.7
Only persons authorized by the employer shall perform maintenance (see Annex
C, General Safety Procedures That Apply to All Tree Work).

8.7.8
During chipping operations, hands, feet, or other parts of the body shall not pass
beyond the plane of the infeed hopper. Leaning into or pushing material into infeed
hoppers with feet is prohibited.

8.7.9
When hand-feeding a chipper, brush and logs shall be fed into chippers from the
side of the feed table center line. Brush and logs should be fed butt or cut end first,
and the operator shall immediately turn and step away from the feed table when
the brush is taken into the rotor or feed rollers.

8.7.10
When hand-feeding a chipper during roadside operations, the operator should
work from the curb or shoulder side whenever practical to prevent
himself/herself
from stepping into traffic or being pushed into traffic
by the material that is being
fed into the chipper.

8.7.11
Brush chipper discharge chutes shall not be removed nor shall the cutter housing
cover be opened or raised while any part of the chipper is turning or moving.
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Chippers shall not be used unless a discharge chute of sufficient length or design

is provided that prevents personal contact with the blades (see Annex C, General
Safety Procedures That Apply to All Tree Work).

8.7.12
Material, such as stones, nails, or sweepings shall not be fed into chippers.

8.7.13
Limbs, logs, brush, and other woody material should be cut/prepared prior to
feeding into the chipper.

8.7.14
Small vegetation shall be fed into chippers with longer branches or pushed with a
longer branch, push paddle, or suitable non-metallic tool.

8.7.15
During chipping operations, operators shall be aware of potential pinch hazards
between the machine and materials being chipped, and within the material itself.

8.7.16
When using a winch in chipper operations, the winch line and/or winch
line hook
shall never pass beyond the plane of the infeed hopper. Once the material is
controlled by the feeder wheels, the feeding process shall be stopped and the
winch line and/or hook shall be properly stowed
before proceeding.

8.7.17
Should the chipper become clogged, procedures for the Control of Hazardous
Energy (Annex C.2) shall be referenced and followed as appropriate.

8.7.18
Due to the hazards of step and touch potential, if the distance between the aerial
device and energized conductor(s) is unintentionally less than the required
minimum approach distance (MAD), workers on the ground shall move away and
remain clear of the aerial-device vehicle and
attached equipment (e.g., chipper)
til th i d MAD i t bli h d
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until the required MAD is reestablished.

8.7.19
Refer to Section 5.3, Brush Chippers, for additional information.

8.7.20
Specialized material handling equipment, such as but not limited to skid-steers or
mini-loaders (whether wheeled or tracked), when used in chipping operations,
shall not create a hazard for other workers.

8.8 Limbing and Bucking

8.8.1
Work plans for limbing and bucking operations shall be communicated to all
workers in a job briefing before work begins.

8.8.2
When more than one worker is involved in limbing, bucking, and moving
debris
from a tree, each shall be positioned and their duties organized
so that the actions
of one worker will not create a hazard for any other worker. Only one worker shall
be cutting a single tree or single tree part during the limbing and bucking process.

8.8.3
Before bucking or limbing wind-thrown trees, precautions shall be taken to prevent
the root ball or butt log from striking a worker.

8.8.4
Chain saws should be operated away from the vicinity of the legs and feet. Natural
barriers, such as limbs between the saw and the body, should be employed where
possible. While operating a chain saw, the preferred working position is on the
uphill side of the work.

8.8.5
The worker shall ensure firm footing before and during limbing and bucking. The
worker shall not stand on loose debris or logs that may roll when the log being
bucked is cut
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bucked is cut.

8.8.6
Trees, limbs, or saplings under tension shall be considered hazardous.
Appropriate cutting techniques and precautions shall be followed.

8.8.7
When necessary to prevent rolling, logs shall be blocked with wood or other
suitable material.

8.8.8
Wedges should be used as necessary to prevent binding of the guide bar or chain
when bucking.

8.8.9
Cant hooks or peaveys should be used as an aid in rolling large or irregular logs.

8.8.10
If mechanized equipment is used, the equipment operator shall establish an
effective means of communication with other workers (see Subsection 8.5.11).

8.8.11
Workers shall not approach mechanized equipment operations until the equipment
operator has acknowledged that it is safe to do so.

8.9 Pesticide Application

8.9.1
Pesticide applicators shall obtain and remain current with all licensing/certification
requirements as required by the appropriate state regulatory authority prior to
using pesticides.

8.9.2
Pesticide applicators shall follow all applicable laws and/or regulations pertaining
to pesticide use, handling, and disposal.

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8.9.3

The applicator shall follow label instructions in regard to pesticide applications.

8.9.4
Personal protective equipment shall be properly fitted, cleaned, maintained, and
stored. Proper use of personal protective equipment as specified on the product
label will reduce the risk of pesticide exposure to the applicator.

8.9.5
Personal protective equipment shall not be stored with pesticides.

8.9.6
Employee training shall be provided in the recognition of hazardous substances,
proper handling, and emergency procedures in the event of a spill or accidental
poisoning, as required by the OSHA 1910.1200 Hazard Communication standard
and the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals
(GHS).

8.9.7
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all products in inventory shall be reviewed with and
made available to all affected employees. All SDSs pertaining to pesticides in use
shall be readily available on the work site.

8.9.8
The applicator shall follow pesticide label instructions in regard to laundering
his/her clothing.

8.9.9
The applicator should shower or bathe at the end of each workday.

8.9.10
The employer shall provide a clean water source at the worksite, which may be
used for emergency personal decontamination. Precautions shall be taken to
prevent contamination of the clean water source. Drinking water and
d t i ti t h ll b k ti t t i d h l b ll d
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decontamination water shall be kept in separate containers and each labelled.

8.9.11
The applicator shall not direct a solid spray column into contact with electrical
conductors.

8.9.12
Pesticides shall be stored in their original container or in a clearly marked service
container.

8.9.13
Pesticides shall be stored in locked compartments.

8.9.14
Pesticide storage areas shall meet or exceed all applicable state and local
regulations.

8.9.15
An emergency action plan, including spill response materials and procedures, shall
be available where pesticides are stored, transported,
or handled.

8.10 Mixing Pesticides

8.10.1
Pesticides shall be mixed in an area that is outdoors or in a well-ventilated,
illuminated, enclosed area.

8.10.2
Devices used for mixing and measuring pesticides shall be specifically designated
and marked for pesticide use and shall be used for no other purpose.

8.11 High-Pressure Air-Excavation Equipment

8.11.1
Personal protective equipment shall be required for the operator and all crew
members within the worksite and shall include hard hat with attached face shield,
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hearing protection, eye protection, and gloves. Additionally, long pants, a long-
sleeved shirt, and/or coveralls shall be worn.
8.11.2
Respiratory protection should be worn when conditions warrant. When used,
respiratory protection shall be in accordance with the OSHA 1910.134 Respiratory
Protection standard.

8.11.3
A proper worksite shall be identified; measures shall be taken to keep non-
involved individuals clear of the worksite.

8.11.4
The compressor operator shall understand and follow all operating instructions for
the compressor.

8.11.5
The air hose shall be properly attached and secured to the compressor prior to
starting the compressor.

8.11.6
Body parts shall not be placed in front of air jets.

8.11.7
When the operator is finished, the air line shall be depressurized prior to
uncoupling the air hose.

8.12 Fertilization/Soil Management

8.12.1
Fertilization should be conducted in accordance with the ANSI A300 (Part 2)
standard.

8.12.2
All products should be used in accordance with manufacturers’ safety
recommendations.

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8.12.3

Fertilizers shall be stored away from ignition sources and separate from petroleum
products and pesticides.

8.12.4
Smoking shall be prohibited in the fertilizer storage area.

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Annex A

ANNEX A
(Informative)
Glossary of Terms for ANSI Z133

NOTE: The numbers in parentheses after these terms are cross-references to the
section in the standard where the term is first used in a major context.

aerial device (4.1.4[e]): Any one of the following types of vehicle-mounted

apparatus used to elevate personnel to work positions aloft:

extensible boom platform

aerial ladder
articulating boom platform
vertical tower
a combination of any of the above, as defined in ANSI A92.2

apex ([Link]): The point at which two saw cuts meet to form a notch.

applicator (5.4.3): A qualified person engaged in the application of materials such

as, but not limited to, pesticides, growth regulators, and fertilizers.

approved (3.3.7): Acceptable to the federal, state, or local jurisdiction having

enforcement authority.

approved containers (3.6.2[b]): Containers having a spring-closing lid and spout

cover designed to safely relieve internal pressure when subjected to fire exposure.

arboriculture (1.1): The art, science, technology, and business of utility,

commercial, and municipal tree care.

[Link] 1/16
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arborist (1.2): An individual engaged in the profession of arboriculture.

arborist climbing line (5.7.11): A rope designated to support the climber while
aloft in a tree or attached to a crane, constructed according to specifications
outlined in subsection 8.1.7.

arborist saddle (5.7.11): A body-holding device that

fastens around the waist and
around the thighs with or without an integrated rigid seat; used by arborists in
conjunction with other components for work positioning and suspension in trees
(a.k.a. tree saddle, sit harness).

authorized (5.1.7): Designated by the entity that has care, custody, and control of
the unit.

authorized person (5.3.7): A person approved or assigned by the employer to

perform a specific type of duty or duties or
to be at a specific location or locations
at the worksite.

back cut (8.6.13): The cut made in a tree limb or trunk on the side opposite the
intended direction of fall.

backstay (8.5.9): A rope or cable that is set to share the load on a spar, limb, jib,
pole, or other load-bearing member.

barber chair (8.6.14): Dangerous condition created when a tree or branch splits
upward vertically from the back cut (a.k.a. slab up).

blind pick (5.7.13): A work situation where the qualified arborist or the load is not
in full view of the qualified crane operator.

boom-supported elevating work platform (5.2.32): A self-propelled, integral-

chassis aerial platform that can be positioned completely beyond the base and
used to position personnel, along with their necessary tools and materials, at work
locations. Aerial platforms
are power-operated, and primary functions, including
drive, are controlled from the platform. Such aerial platforms are intended to be
occupied when driven
[Link] 2/16
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occupied when driven.

brush hog (5.8.3): A heavy-duty rotary mower, normally pulled by a farm-type

tractor, used for cutting and mulching brush.

bucket (5.2.9): See platform.

bucking (8.8.1): The act of sawing trees, limbs, or both, into smaller sections once
they are on the ground.

cant hook (7.2.2): A long-handled lever fixed with a

blunt metal end to handle
logs; includes a swinging, metal hook opposing the blunt end to create leverage.

carabiner ([Link]): A connector generally composed of a trapezoidal or oval-

shaped body with a closed gate or similar arrangement that may be opened to
receive an object and, when released, automatically closes to retain the object.

chopping tool (7.4.2): A wooden-, fiberglass-, or steel-handled tool with a sharp,

single- or double-edged steel head or blade mounted to it that is used to cut or
split wood (for example, an ax or machete).

compatible (5.9.17): Parts of a system that are consistently capable of performing

to specification when combined in specific arrangements.

conductive (4.1.4[a]): Capable of carrying an electrical current for the voltage

likely to be present.

conventional notch ([Link]): A directional felling

cut into the side of a tree, facing the intended
direction of fall and consisting of a horizontal face
cut and an angle cut above it, creating a
notch of
approximately 45 degrees (see illustration).

crew leader (8.6.1): The qualified arborist

designated as the individual in charge of a specific job or group of workers.

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crotch (8.1.9): (n.) Branch union; the angle formed by two branches in the tree.
(v.) To place a line through a branch union.

dbh (8.6.7): See diameter at breast height.

deadman control (5.8.3): A safety switch, electrical or mechanical, that

deactivates the equipment’s function when released by the operator.

de-energizing (4.3.12): Freeing from any electrical connection to a source of

potential difference and from electric charge;
not having a potential different from
that of the earth.

diameter at breast height (8.6.7): Diameter of a tree measured at 4.5 feet (1.3 m)
above ground.

dielectric (3.3.4): Nonconductive of electrical current.

digging (3.4.2): Any man-made cut, cavity, trench, or depression in the earth’s
surface formed by earth removal, including but not limited to tree planting, stump
grinding, or trenching.

direct contact (4.1.4[b]): When any part of the body touches or contacts an
energized electrical conductor.

direct supervision (3.4.1): When a qualified arborist or a qualified arborist

supervisor is physically present on the jobsite.

drop-starting (6.3.4): The act of starting a chain saw by pushing the saw away
from the body with one hand while simultaneously pulling on the starter cord
handle with the other.

drop zone (3.4.6): Area beneath workers aloft involved in arboricultural operations
and/or where the potential exists for struck-by injuries from falling objects.

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electrical conductor (3.3.4): Any overhead or underground electrical device

capable of carrying an electric current, including communications wires and
cables, power lines, and other such fixtures or apparatus.

electrical hazard (3.4.7): An object or situation that poses risk of injury or death
due to direct or indirect contact with an electrical conductor. Where unguarded,
energized electrical conductors are present, specific minimum approach distances
based on the
arborist’s or worker’s level of training, as set forth in this standard,
shall be followed.

electrical system owner/operator (4.3.12): An organization that operates or

controls the transmission and/or distribution of electric power through electrical
conductors.

employer (1.3): A person or entity engaged in a business or work activity who has
employees working at his/her (their) direction, or the designated representative of
this person or entity.

false crotch (8.1.9): A system, other than a natural crotch, used to support an
arborist climbing line.

good working condition (8.3.7): A term describing a piece of equipment that has
no mechanical defects, has all guards in place, and is operated as intended by the
manufacturer.

grounded (4.1.4[a]): A system, circuit, or apparatus

provided with a ground(s) for
the purposes of establishing a ground return circuit and for maintaining its potential
at approximately the potential of earth.

ground fault (4.1.4[e]): Any undesirable current path from a current-carrying

conductor to ground.

host employer [line clearance] (4.3.8): An employer that operates, or that controls
the operating procedures for an electric power generation transmission or
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the operating procedures for an electric
power generation, transmission, or

distribution installation on which a

contract employer is performing work covered
by Section 4.3.

hinge ([Link]): Strip of uncut wood fibers created

between the face cut or notch
and the back cut that helps control direction in tree felling or limb removal (a.k.a.
holding wood).

Humboldt notch ([Link]): A directional felling cut

into the side of a tree, facing the intended direction
of fall and consisting of a horizontal face cut and an
angled cut below it, creating
a notch of
approximately 45 degrees (see illustration). A
Humboldt cut is usually reserved for larger trees on
steep slopes.

incidental line clearance (4.2.4): Tree work performed where an electrical hazard
exists to the arborist, but the arborist is not working for the purpose of clearing
space around the conductor on behalf of the utility that controls or operates the
wires/lines.

indirect contact (4.1.4[b]): When any part of the body touches any conductive
object, including tools, tree branches, trucks, equipment, or other objects, that is in
contact with an energized electrical conductor. Such contact can also be made as
the result of communication wires and cables, fences, or guy wires being
accidentally energized.

insulated (4.1.13): Resistant to the flow of electricity for the voltage which it is
rated.

job briefing (3.4.3): The communication of at least the following subjects for
arboricultural operations: hazards associated
with the job, work procedures
involved, special precautions, electrical
hazards, job assignments, and personal
protective equipment.
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kilovolt (kV) (Table 1): The term for 1,000 volts, abbreviated as kV. Higher
voltages are generally given as kilovolts. Example: 12.5 kV (12,500 volts) and 19.9
kV (19,900 volts).

kilonewton (kN) (8.2.4): The measurement of force, abbreviated as kN. Equal to

224.8 pounds. Example: 24.02 kilonewtons equals 5,400 pounds.

ladder (4.1.12): A two-, three-, or four-legged structure that utilizes vertical side
legs with cross sections uniformly
placed between the side legs to be used as
steps; available in wood, aluminum, or fiberglass; used to ascend to and descend
from a height. Also see tripod/orchard ladder.

lanyard

tool lanyard (8.4.3): Short line or strap used to secure a tool while working
aloft.

work-positioning lanyard (6.3.6): A component of a climbing system, used for

work positioning, consisting of a flexible line of rope or a strap that may
incorporate a knot or mechanical device
to allow for adjustability.

leg protection (3.3.8): Personal protective equipment intended to reduce the risk
of injury to the legs during chain saw operations.

limbing (8.8.1): See bucking.

line

(The following three terms are often used interchangeably)

handline (7.1.6): Rope designated as a tool to leverage, lift, and hold tools,
equipment, wood, or other objects.

tagline (8.5.14): Rope used during the removal of limbs or other portions of
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trees, or whole trees during tree removal operations. The line is used to

introduce force to influence the direction of fall of the piece being cut. In pruning
and rigging operations, the line may also be used to direct the piece as it is
being
lowered.

workline (8.1.3): Rope used for lifting, lowering, or guiding limbs or equipment,
or both, into or out of the tree.

line clearance (4.3.6): The pruning, trimming, repairing, maintaining, removing,

treating, or clearing of trees or the cutting of brush (vegetation management) that
is within the minimum approach distance (MAD) per Table 3 of electric supply lines
and equipment; vegetation management work performed by qualified line-
clearance arborists or qualified line-clearance arborist trainees for the construction
or maintenance of electric supply lines and/or the electric utility right-of-way
corridor.

load radius ([Link]): The horizontal distance from

the axis of rotation of the
crane to the center of the vertical load rope or tackle with a load applied.

MAD (4.1.7): See minimum approach distance.

manual tree felling (8.6.4): The removal of a tree or tree trunk by an arborist from
the ground by the incorporation of a notch and back cut.

maul (7.3.7): A heavy hammer, sometimes made with a single edge; used to drive
wedges or split wood.

minimum approach distance (MAD) (4.1.7): The closest distance an employee

may approach or bring any conductive object to an energized or a utility system
grounded object; or the closest distance the employee may be to an energized or
utility system grounded object, as outlined in Tables 1, 2, and 3 of this standard.

mitigate (4.3.12): To lessen or make less severe a hazardous condition or

dangerous situation.

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moving rope system (8.2.4): A climbing system in which the rope adjustment
device advances along a moving climbing line. Doubled rope technique (DdRT) is
an example of a moving rope system (contrast with stationary rope system).

open-face notch ([Link]): A directional felling cut

into the side of the tree, facing the intended
direction of fall and
consisting of two cuts that
create a notch greater than 70 degrees (see
illustration).

outrigger (5.2.5): Built-in device used to stabilize

cranes, aerial devices, and similar equipment.

Personal Protective Equipment Hazard Certification (5.3.6): Documentation of

the employer’s workplace hazard assessment that identifies the workplace
evaluated; the person certifying that the evaluation has been performed; the
date(s) of the hazard assessment; and, which identifies the document as a
certification of hazard assessment.

pesticide ([Link]): A substance used to manage unwanted plants, insects or

animals.

phase-to-ground (4.1.4[b]): The electric potential (voltage) between a conductor

and ground.

phase-to-phase (4.1.4[d]): The electrical potential (voltage) between two

conductors, each having its own electric potential
relative to ground.

platform (4.1.13): The personnel-carrying component of an aerial device, such as

a bucket, basket, stand, or equivalent.

primary conductor (4.3.9): Any conductor, including aluminum, copper, or

aluminum conductor steel-reinforced (ACSR), that is bare, covered, or insulated,
with a nominal voltage above 750 volts
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with a nominal voltage above 750 volts.

proximity (3.3.4): An area within 10 feet (3.05 m) of energized overhead electrical

conductors rated 50 kV phase-to-phase or less. For overhead electrical conductors
rated more than 50 kV phase-to-phase, the distance is increased by 4 inches for
each additional 10 kV.

Prusik loop (8.2.6): An endless loop of rope used to

fashion a Prusik knot. The
endless loop may be spliced or knotted with,
at minimum, a double-fisherman’s
knot.

qualified arborist (3.4.1): An individual who, by possession of a recognized

degree, certification, or professional standing, or through related training and on-
the-job experience, is familiar with the equipment and hazards involved in
arboricultural operations and who has demonstrated ability in the performance of
the special techniques involved.

qualified arborist trainee (6.1.5): An individual undergoing on-the-job training

under the direct supervision of a qualified arborist. In the course of such training,
the trainee becomes familiar with the hazards and equipment involved in
arboricultural operations and demonstrates ability in the performance of the special
techniques involved.

qualified crane operator (5.7.3): An individual who has demonstrated proficiency

to operate the type and capacity of equipment he/she operates; is familiar with the
equipment and hazards involved with arboriculture crane operations and has
demonstrated proficiency in performing the special techniques involved; and where
applicable, meets federal, state, or local requirements for licensure or
training.

qualified line-clearance arborist (4.3.6): An individual who, through related

training and on-the-job experience, is familiar with the equipment and hazards in
line clearance and has demonstrated the ability to perform the special techniques
involved and who is working on behalf of the system owner/operator.

Annexes qualified line-clearance arborist trainee (4.3.5): An individual

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undergoing line-clearance training under the direct supervision of a qualified line-

clearance arborist (as defined above). In the course of such training, the trainee
becomes familiar with the equipment and hazards in line clearance and
demonstrates ability in the performance of the special techniques involved.

quick-acting connector (5.2.22): Hose connectors in a

hydraulic or pneumatic
system designed to allow rapid connection or disconnection without leakage when
the system is pressurized.

secured

object (5.1.8): Made firm or tight; fastened. Example: The load is secured to the
truck.

person-aerial lift operator (5.2.16): An aerial lift operator who is protected from
a fall from an aerial lift by use of a fall-protection system.

person-climber (6.3.6): An arborist who is safeguarded from unintended

movement by utilizing a climbing system that
is attached to the arborist and
connected to a tree or other stable support. Examples of being secured include,
but are not limited to, (a) being tied in, (b) using a workpositioning lanyard, (c)
being on belay, and (d) ascending the arborist climbing line using the footlock
technique while utilizing a Prusik loop or ascenders.

shall (1.4): As used in this standard, denotes a mandatory requirement.

shock-loading (5.7.8): The force exerted by a falling or moving object on the

structure supporting it, which is greater than the weight of the object (also called
dynamic load).

should (3.1.3): As used in this standard, denotes an advisory recommendation.

snap hook ([Link]): Commonly called a self-locking or double-locking rope snap.

The locking type (required by this standard
for climbing) has a self-closing, self-
locking gate that remains closed
and locked until intentionally opened by the user
for connection or disconnection A captive eye is an integral part of a snap hook
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for connection or disconnection. A captive eye is an integral part of a snap hook
but is independent of the hook and gate portion.

spar (8.1.14): A standing trunk or main stem of a tree without a crown and lateral
limbs.

split-tail (8.2.1): Separate, short length of rope used to tie the climbing hitch in a
climbing system.

spotter

aerial lift operations (5.2.27): A qualified person within voice and/or visual
communication with the operator of an aerial lift who is located in a position to
view the boom while it is aloft in order to help ensure clearances from obstacles
and hazards such as; overhead energized lines, traffic, trees or other structures.

crane (5.7.3): A qualified person within voice and/or visual communication with
the operator of a crane who is located in a position to view the boom, load line
and load in order to help ensure clearances from obstacles and hazards such
as; overhead energized
lines, traffic, trees or other structures.

driving (5.1.13): A person within voice and/or visual communication of the

driver and located in a position to view the
area in which the vehicle (unit) is
moving to help ensure that the operation is, and will remain, safe.

stationary rope system (8.2.5): A climbing system in which the rope adjustment
device moves along a stationary climbing line (contrast with moving rope system).

step potential (4.1.4[f]): The voltage between the feet of a person standing near
an energized grounded object. It is equal
to the difference in voltage, given by the
voltage distribution curve, between two points at different distances from the
electrode. A person could be at risk of injury during a fault simply by standing near
the grounding point.

suspended (load) (5.7.7): Any attached load held off the ground and against the
force of gravity by the crane.

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temporary traffic control zone (3.5.2): An area of highway, street, or road where
road user conditions are changed by the use of temporary traffic control devices.

testing (4.3.12): To determine the presence of electricity.

tied in (5.7.11): An arborist whose climbing line has been run through a natural or
false crotch, attached to an arborist’s saddle and completed with a climbing hitch
or mechanical device, permitting controlled movement and work positioning.

tripod/orchard ladder (7.5.8): A three-legged ladder

that utilizes the third leg to
form a tripod to stabilize itself among orchard trees and/or shrubs. It is
recommended for use on turf for better stability and to avoid slippage of the legs.
Not recommended for use on hard surfaces.

volt (V) (4.3.9): A unit of electric potential difference between two points. Lower-
voltage systems are generally expressed in terms of volts; for example, 120 volts
or 240 volts.

wedge (7.3.2): A piece of material with two sides meeting at an angle; used to
raise or split objects by applying a driving force, such as with a hammer.

wheel chock (5.2.4): Wedge-shaped block manufactured

or employer approved to
prevent unintentional movement of vehicle. Wheel chocks are placed in front of or
in back of a vehicle’s tires or tracks. If necessary, the chocks can be placed both in
front and in back
of the tires or tracks.

working-load limit (8.5.3): The working load that must not be exceeded for a
particular application as established by a regulatory or standards-setting agency
(see working load under Additional Terms).

Additional Terms
action [rope snap, carabiner]: Single, specific motion (e.g. non-locking carabiner
has one “action,” the gate opening).
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double-action: A connector with a gate capable of being opened only by at

least two consecutive, deliberate actions (e.g. locking rope snap).

triple-action: A connector with a gate capable of being opened only by at least

three consecutive, deliberate actions (e.g. carabiners used in life support).

aerial lift lanyard: A component of an aerial lift fall-protection system that

connects the operator to an approved anchor.

ascender: A mechanical device used for climbing rope.

auto-locking: Type of connecting link, rope snap or carabiner, that when the gate
is opened and released it closes and locks
by itself (self-closing and self-locking).

belay: Roping technique, managed by another person, to safeguard the arborist

while climbing.

climbing hitch: A hitch used for securing a tree climber to the climbing line,
permitting controlled ascent, descent, and
work positioning. Examples of climbing
hitches include, but are not limited to, the tautline hitch, Blake’s hitch, and the
Prusik hitch.

electric supply: Conductors used to transmit electric energy and their necessary
supporting or containing structures.
Signal lines of more than 400 volts are always
supply lines, and those of less than 400 volts are considered as supply lines if so
run and operated throughout.

energy (shock) absorber: A component of a climbing system whose primary

function is to dissipate energy and limit deceleration forces that the system
imposes on the body during fall arrest.

fall-arrest lanyard: A rope or strap designed to be used with a full-body harness

to limit maximum arresting force on a climber to 1,800 pounds (8 kN) in a fall.

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false crotch for rigging: A pulley, block, sling, lashing, or metal ring affixed to a
tree’s leader or limb, through which
a load line is passed, to lower or raise limbs or
equipment.

footlock: To climb up a suspended rope by pulling with the hands and arms and
pushing upward with the feet. The loose end of the rope is wrapped under the
middle and over the top of one foot and
is locked in place with pressure from the
other foot.

friction point: The point at which the rope surface of the climber’s hitch rubs
against the climbing line.

guarded: Covered, fenced, enclosed, or otherwise protected by suitable covers or

casings, barrier rails or screens, mats,
or platforms that have been designed by
the electrical system owner/operator to minimize the possibility of dangerous
approach or accidental contact by persons or objects under normal conditions.
Contrast with unguarded.

Prusik knot: A sliding friction knot, as in a work-positioning lanyard.

stored energy: Potential energy that is contained within an object (e.g. a

suspended weight, a coiled spring, wood under tension, wires under tension,
pressurized hydraulic lines, etc.).

unguarded: Not guarded from approach or contact with electrical conductors.

working load: Limiting load values derived from the minimum breaking strength of
a cord or rope divided by the design factor. For example, given a minimum
breaking strength of 10,000 pounds (44.48 kN) and a design factor of 10:

10,000/10 = 1,000 (working load, in pounds)

Or, given a minimum breaking strength of 10,000 pounds (44.48 kN) and a design
factor of 5:
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factor of 5:

10,000/5 = 2,000 (working load, in pounds)

The recommended design factor for personal fall-protection components,

such as fall arrest, fall restraint, work positioning, and suspension cordage
and connecting links, etc., is a minimum of 10:1.
The recommended design factor for synthetic rigging components, such as
rope, slings, cordage, etc., is a minimum of 5:1.
The recommended design factor for metal rigging components, such as wire
rope, metal connecting links, etc., is a minimum of 3:1.

work-positioning system: An arborist climbing system

designed to be used
under tension to limit falls to no more than two feet, and which supports the
arborist on an elevated, vertical surface, such as a tree, and allows him/her to
work with both hands free.

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Annex B

ANNEX B
(Informative)
Recommended Guidelines for Standard Performance and
Safety Training for Qualified Line-Clearance
Arborists/Qualified Line-Clearance Arborist Trainees and
Qualified Arborists/Qualified Arborist Trainees

NOTE: The content of this training outline is generic and may be customized to
achieve equivalent levels of safe practice by substituting or, where deemed
appropriate to the circumstances, omitting portions of this outline. Use or nonuse
of training aids that may be available shall not be evidence of noncompliance with
this standard or annex.

B.1 General Requirements

Specific training in the area of individual expertise and work required of a qualified
line-clearance arborist or qualified arborist should be provided by the employer
and documentation of training retained on file for the duration of employment.

B.1.1 Introduction and employer/employee responsibilities

B.1.2 Employee orientation, to include:

job description appropriate to job assignment (qualified line-clearance arborist

or qualified arborist)
introduction to immediate supervisor and crew members
familiarization with appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment
and its proper use and maintenance
familiarization with equipment
introduction to company policies, procedures, and safe work practices
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safe work practices as related to job assignments

written acknowledgment by employee that he or she has participated in such

training

B.1.3 Line-clearance or tree care pruning techniques appropriate to job

assignments, as follows:
B.1.3.1 Provide education and training in accordance with prevailing national
standards for utility pruning. Refer to Annex D, Additional Resources for further
information.

B.1.3.2 Provide education and training in accordance with prevailing local, state,
or regional standards for utility pruning, as well as those specified by utility
contracts.

B.1.3.3 Provide tree knowledge for line-clearance or tree care techniques

appropriate to job assignments.

B.1.3.4 Provide education and training relative to predominant tree species

within geographic area, such as identification, growth habits, structure, and
wood strength.

B.1.3.5 Provide education and training for recognition and evaluation

of
potentially hazardous conditions related to tree structure. Refer to
recommended resources in Annex D.

B.2 General Safety

B.2.1 OSHA Standards

Familiarize employees with the requirements of federal and/or state OSHA
standards as applicable to employee job assignments. Refer to recommended
resources in Annex D.

B.2.2 American National Standards

Familiarize employees with the requirements in ANSI Z133 as applicable to
employee job assignments. Refer to additional recommended standards in Annex
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D.

B.2.3 Public Safety and Traffic Control

Provide education and training in the use of public safety and traffic control
devices as applicable under federal, state, or local regulations.

B.2.4 Electrical Hazards

Provide education and training in the recognition and avoidance of electrical
hazards applicable to employee job assignments (line clearance or tree care).

B.2.5 Emergency Conditions

Provide education and training in the proper procedures for safely performing work
in emergency conditions applicable to employee job assignments.

B.2.6 Jobsite Briefings

Provide education and training in jobsite-specific hazards associated
with the job,
work procedures, and practices involved. Instruct employees about special
precautions, personal protective clothing, and equipment requirements as
applicable to employee job assignments.

B.3 Personal Safety

B.3.1 Personal Protective Equipment

Provide personal protective equipment as required for applicable job assignments,
and instruct employees in its proper use, fit, life, and maintenance.

B.3.2 Emergency Response Procedures

Furnish employees with appropriate information and training necessary
to expedite
a response to a worksite emergency, such as first aid, CPR,
and aerial rescue (see
Annex F, Aerial Rescue Flowchart).

B.3.3 Prevention of Back and Other Injuries

Provide education and training in the techniques required to avoid back and other
injuries applicable to job assignments.

B.3.4 Identification and Avoidance of Animals and Poison Plants

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Provide education and training in the identification of and the need to avoid contact
with poisonous plants and instructions for treating insect stings/bites and snake
bites.

B.4 Equipment Safety

B.4.1 Mobile Equipment and Aerial Lifts

Provide education and training in the inspection, operation, and maintenance of all
vehicles and equipment, such as aerial lifts, brush chippers, stump grinders, log
loaders, tree cranes, mowing equipment, and pesticide application equipment. All
equipment shall comply with applicable federal and state regulations, local
ordinances, and manufacturers’ operating instructions. Such training shall be
appropriate to employee job assignments.

B.4.2 Aerial Equipment and Electrical Hazards

Provide education and training so that affected employees understand the required
and recommended procedures for operating aerial devices in proximity to electrical
hazards. Such training shall be appropriate to employee job assignments.

B.4.3 Chain Saw, Power Tool, and Hand Tool Use and Safety
Provide education and training in the safe use of chain saws, power tools, and
hand tools in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. Such training shall be
appropriate to employee job assignments.

B.4.4 Climbing Equipment Use and Safety

Provide education and training in the inspection, maintenance, and storage of
climbing equipment such as ropes, saddles, personal lanyards,
rope snaps,
carabiners, and related equipment. Such training shall be appropriate to employee
job assignments.

B.5 Operational Safety

B.5.1 Climbing Techniques

Provide education and training in climbing techniques as appropriate to employee
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job assignments.

B.5.2 Rigging and Tree Removal

B.5.2.1 Provide education and training appropriate to employee job
assignments, such as knots and ropes, rigging techniques, tree strength and
weight characteristics, and potential electrical hazards.

B.5.2.2 Provide education and training in the identification and removal of

hazard trees. Such training shall be appropriate to employee job assignments.

B.5.3 Hazard Communications

Provide education and training necessary to comply with federal and state
regulations appropriate to employee job assignments.

B.5.4 Pesticide Use

Provide education and training necessary to comply with federal and state
regulations appropriate to employee job assignments.

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Annex C

ANNEX C
(Informative)
General Safety Procedures That Apply to All Tree Work

C.1 Lifting
Before lifting any weight, workers should

a. be sure there is a clear path available if the weight is to be carried from one
place to another;
b. decide exactly how the object should be grasped to avoid sharp edges,
slivers, splinters, or other factors that might cause injury;
c. make a preliminary lift to be sure the load can be safely handled;
d. place feet solidly on the walking surface;
e. crouch as close to the load as possible, with legs bent at an angle of about 90
degrees;
f. lift with the legs, not the back, keeping the weight as close to the body as
possible; and
g. use additional workers or material-handling equipment when necessary.

C.2 Control of Hazardous Energy

When a worker, hereafter referred to as the “authorized person,” is doing
mechanical work, precautions must be taken to prevent injury caused by moving or
elevated parts, or the release of stored energy, such as hydraulic pressure. Failure
to do so could result in a serious, potentially maiming, or fatal injury. The
authorized person performing maintenance/repair shall comply with the
manufacturers’ procedures.

The specific Control of Hazardous Energy requirements established by the

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) may be obtained
by
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consulting 29 CFR 1910.147 or by writing to the Department of Labor,

OSHA, 200
Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20210.

Sample Procedures

Sequence for Securing Equipment (Sample)

1. The authorized person shall notify the crew and/or affected employees that
maintenance or repair is to be done and that such equipment must be shut
down and secured.
2. The authorized person shall refer to the manufacturer’s manual for proper
procedures (as needed).
3. If equipment is in an operational mode, it shall be shut down by normal
procedures.
4. Rotating parts, such as chipper blades, shall be stopped before maintenance
or repair. Keyed ignition systems must be in working order.
5. Keys shall be removed and pocketed by the foreman or mechanic. When
there is no keyed ignition system, the battery cables or spark plug wires may
be disconnected.
6. The power takeoff should be disengaged before beginning service or repair
tasks, such as hose replacement. All hydraulic tools should be disconnected
before equipment is adjusted or serviced.
7. An employee shall never attempt to stop a hydraulic leak with his/her body.
8. Materials or parts that must be raised or disconnected and suspended
shall
be properly secured, such as with an appropriate sling or jackstand.
Flywheels, such as chipper cutter heads, are to be blocked to
prevent pinch
points.
9. Before proceeding with maintenance or repair, the authorized person shall
ensure that equipment is isolated and will not operate.
10. Any piece of equipment being serviced or repaired shall not be started,
energized, or used by any other worker not under the direction of the
authorized person.
11 When the engine must be running for tuning or adjustment special care must
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11. When the engine must be running for tuning or adjustment, special care must
be given to moving parts.

Restoring Equipment to Service (Sample)

When maintenance or repair is complete and equipment is ready to return to
normal operation, the following steps shall be taken by the authorized person to
restore the equipment to service:

1. To prevent accidental contact with moving or electrical components when the

equipment is engaged, check for loose parts or tools that may have been left
in the immediate area.
2. Ensure that all guards are in place and employees are in the clear.
3. Confirm that controls are in neutral.
4. Reconnect key, cable, or plug wires.
5. Notify affected employees that equipment is ready to return to service.

C.3 Manual Tree Felling Procedure

Before performing any work, conduct a site assessment and the following seven
steps to determine whether a tree can be manually felled.

1. Hazards and Obstacles Identification: Example of conditions to analyze

include, but are not limited to
a. tree size in relationship to the landing zone;
b. selected direction of fall;
c. obstacles to avoid or clear from the felling path;
d. vines or interlocking limbs;
e. species and shape of tree;
f. lean of tree;
g. loose limbs, hangers, broken tops, chunks, or other overhead material;
h. wind force and direction;
i. decay, cavities, or weak spots throughout the tree;
j. location of any electrical conductors or other wires;
k. tree cables, bracing, lightning protection, or other tree hardware;
l. size and terrain characteristics or limitations of work area;
m. potential for flying debris from tree impact;
n adequate retreat path;
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n. adequate retreat path;
o. evidence of bees or wildlife habitation in tree;

p. poisonous plants;
q. water hazards;
r. ability to control access to worksite;
s. authority to remove tree;
t. quality of wood fiber in hinge area;
u. root mass stability;
v. ice or snow load;
w. throwback or bounceback potential;
x. potential for spring poles;
y. lodged trees or dead snags in area;
z. access to tools or resources required for task;
aa. lightning damage;
ab. potential for barber chair;
ac. foreign objects, nails, wire fence, concrete, etc.
2. Lean(s): Determine side lean from the fall direction, then go 90 degrees
adjacent and determine front or back lean.
(Note: The side lean may
influence the retreat path [escape route] as well as the back cut to be used.
Heavy, forward-leaning trees may represent a risk of barber chair.)
3. Retreat Path/Escape Route (planned retreat direction): Select a route that is
45 degrees to the rear of the tree and, when possible, to the opposite side of
the natural side lean of the
tree.
4. Notch Plan: Select and cut a notch that is best suited to allow the tree to fall
safely in the desired direction (open face, conventional, or Humboldt).
5. Hinge Plan: Determine the type and characteristics of the hinge. Uncut wood
between the notch and back cut is recommended to have a width that is 10
percent of dbh and a hinge length that is 80 percent of the tree’s diameter.
6. Back Cut Plan: Select and make a felling cut, such as bore cut, stepped
cut(s), or level back cut(s); also use assistance, such as wedge(s),
workline(s), or machinery. Before making a back cut, give an audible
command, such as “stand clear,” and wait for a response,
such as “all clear.”
7. Retreat: Use a retreat path (escape route) out to a
safe distance. If the tree
has not fallen, use workline(s) or machinery
in place to start the fall of the
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tree. Once the tree is on the ground,

wait for movement to stop and check for
hanging or lodged hazards before approaching.

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Annex D

ANNEX D
(Informative)
Additional Resources

D.1 Applicable American National Standards

Boom-Supported Elevating Work Platforms (ANSI/SAIA A92.5-2006 [R2014])

High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Accessories (ANSI/ISEA 107-2015)

Industrial Head Protection (ANSI/ISEA Z89.1-2014)

Ladders - Portable Metal - Safety Requirements (ANSI ASC A14.2-2007)

Ladders - Wood - Safety Requirements (ANSI ASC A14.1-2007)

Minimum Requirements for Workplace First Aid Kits and Supplies (ANSI/ISEA
Z308.1-2015)

Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices

(ANSI/ISEA Z87.1-2015)

Practices for Respiratory Protection (ANSI/ASSE Z88.2-2015)

Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management—Standard Practices [Pruning]

(A300 [Part 1]-2017)

Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management—Standard Practices [Soil

Management a. Modification, b. Fertilization, and c. Drainage] (A300 [Part 2]-2011)

Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody Plant Management—Standard Practices

[Supplemental Support Systems] (A300 [Part 3]-2013)
[Link] 1/4
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex D
[ pp pp y ]( [ ] )

Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices (ANSI/SAIA 92.2-2015)

Workplace Walking/Working Surfaces and Their Access; Workplace, Floor, Wall

and Roof Openings; Stairs and Guardrails Systems (ANSI/ASSE A1264.1-2017)

D.2 Other Applicable Standards

Articulating Boom Cranes (ASME B30.22-2016)

Mobile and Locomotive Cranes (ASME B30.5-2011)

Multiposition Small Engine Exhaust System Fire Ignition Suppression (SAE

Standard J335_2012101)

Standard Specification for Leg Protection for Chain Saw Users (ASTM F1897-14)

Standard Specifications for Personal Climbing Equipment (ASTM F887-13)

Standard Test Method for Measurement of Cut Resistance to Chainsaw in Lower

Body [Legs] Protective Clothing (ASTM F1414-15)

USDA Forest Service Standard for Spark Arresters for Internal Combustion
Engines (USDA Forest Service Specification 5100-1d [February 2013])

D.3 Applicable Federal Regulations (Occupational Safety and Health

Administration, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and
Federal
Highway Administration)
Control of Hazardous Energy (29 CFR 1910.147)

Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution (29 CFR 1910.269)

Electrical (29 CFR 1910, Subpart S [1910.331–1910.335])

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR Part 390)

[Link] 2/4
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex D

Fire (36 CFR 261.52)

Hazard Communication (29 CFR 1910.1200)

Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (23 CFR, Part 655, Subpart F)

Permit-Required Confined Spaces (29 CFR 1910.146)

Personal Protective Equipment (29 CFR 1910, Subpart I [1910.132–1910.138])

Slings (29 CFR 1910.184)

D.4 Other Resources

Cordage Institute Rope Standards/The Cordage Institute ([Link])

Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals [GHS]

([Link]

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health/Fatality Assessment and

Control Evaluation Program ([Link]/niosh/face)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration/Safety and Health Topics/Tree

Care Industry ([Link]/SLTC/treecare)

Occupational Safety and Health Administration/Safety and Health

Topics/Landscape and Horticultural Services ([Link]/SLTC/landscaping)

Personal Protective Equipment for the Prevention of Falls from a Height—Low

Stretch Kernmantel Ropes (BS EN 1891:1998)

D.5 Associations
International Society of Arboriculture; P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826-3129
([Link])

Tree Care Industry Association, Inc.; 136 Harvey Road, Suite 101, Londonderry,
NH 03053 ([Link])
[Link] 3/4
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex E

Annex E

ANNEX E
(Informative)
Weight of Green Logs

[Link] 1/2
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex E

[Link] 2/2
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex F

Annex F

ANNEX F
(Informative)
Aerial Rescue Flowchart

[Link] 1/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex F

[Link] 2/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex G

Annex G

ANNEX G
(Informative)
Hand Signals for Crane Operations

[Link] 1/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex G

Reprinted from Cranes and Derricks in Construction (29 CFR Part 1926).

[Link] 2/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex H

Annex H

ANNEX H
(Informative)
Electrical Hazard Abatement
(See Section 4.3.12 of the Standard)

H.1 Abatement
When an arborist cannot safely maintain the applicable minimum approach
distance from energized electric conductors, or arborist work cannot be safely
completed with the line energized, the arborist must stop work on that assignment
until an electrical hazard abatement plan is implemented.

An electrical hazard abatement plan may include a request for the utility to de-
energize, test, and ground the electric supply lines at the worksite to make it as
safe as practicable for the arborist to work closer to de-energized conductors than
allowed when the conductors are electrically energized. For non-line-clearance-
qualified arborists, the hazard abatement plan may require they hire a qualified
line-clearance arborist or contractor to perform the work.

H.2 Communication
When an arborist’s electrical hazard abatement plan includes a request that the
electrical system owner/operator de-energize, test, and
ground the electrical
conductors, precautions must be taken to ensure clear and thorough
communications between the arborist and the onsite, qualified utility employee
responsible for de-energizing and grounding the conductors. Failure to effectively
communicate and maintain safe work practices could result in severe, potentially
fatal injury.

H.3 General Requirements

1 The electrical system owner/operator has the expertise responsibility and

[Link] 1/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex H
1. The electrical system owner/operator has the expertise, responsibility, and
authority for de-energizing, testing, grounding, and
re-energizing the

conductors.
2. Arborist employees shall treat all conductors and equipment as energized
and maintain minimum approach distances to energized conductors until they
have confirmed that the utility has de-energized and tested the line and that
grounding is in place to make the electric supply lines as safe as practicable
for arborist work.
3. Arborists shall avoid all direct contact with the de-energized conductors,
because de-energized lines should never be considered 100 percent
electrically safe under all conditions.
4. Arborists shall avoid dropping brush/limbs on the de-energized electric supply
lines, poles, or equipment.

Sample Procedures

Sequence for working in proximity to de-energized and grounded

electrical conductors

1. The arborist supervisor shall request that the designated utility supervisor in
charge coordinate communications and actions between the arborist crew
leader and the utility crew leader performing the de-energizing, testing, and
grounding (i.e., times, locations, and designated contact persons at worksite
where de-energizing, testing, and
grounding is to apply).
2. At the worksite, a designated arborist employee in charge will be identified to
the designated qualified utility employee in charge of de-energizing, testing,
and grounding the conductors.
3. All arborist employees will maintain minimum approach distances until the
arborist employee in charge has been notified by the qualified
utility employee
in charge that
a. the de-energizing, testing, and grounding has been completed in
accordance with the electrical system owner/operator’s grounding
procedures, creating a safety zone for the arborist to perform work; and
b. the designated arborist employee in charge has visually confirmed, with
the guidance of the designated qualified utility employee applying the
[Link] 2/3
1/7/22, 10:53 AM Annex H
the guidance of the designated qualified utility employee applying the
grounds, that protective ground(s) have been installed as close as

practicable to the line-clearance or arborist work to be performed to

prevent hazardous differences in electrical potential.
4. It may be necessary to have the protective grounds moved by the utility if the
arborist work progresses beyond the original worksite. If
the grounds must be
moved, Steps 1 through 3 must be repeated. The arborist crew leader must
be able to visually confirm that protective ground(s) have been installed as
required by the utility.

Sequence for re-energizing conductors

1. After completing the line-clearance or arborist work, the designated

arborist
employee in charge will verify that all arborist employees are
outside of the
minimum approach distances from the electric supply lines. The arborist will
then inform the designated qualified utility employee in charge that the work is
complete and that arborist employees
are outside of the minimum approach
distances. The qualified utility employee(s) may now re-energize the lines.
2. The arborist employees shall immediately treat the electrical conductors as
energized and resume maintaining minimum approach distances as specified
in Table 3 (for qualified line-clearance arborists) or Table 1 (for qualified
arborists).

[Link] 3/3
1/7/22, 10:54 AM Annex I

Annex I

ANNEX I
(Informative)
Fall-Protection Systems

Work-Positioning System
Equipment designed to position the user at an elevated worksite in order that he
may have free use of both hands. Not intended to arrest a fall.

Fall-Restraint System
Equipment designed and used to prevent the worker from reaching an area where
a free fall could occur.

[Link] 1/2
1/7/22, 10:54 AM Annex I

Fall-Arrest System
A product specifically designed to arrest a fall from an elevated position.

Suspension System
Equipment designed to suspend or lower a person to a worksite. Not intended to
arrest a fall.

Images courtesy of Buckingham Manufacturing Co., Inc.

[Link] 2/2
1/7/22, 10:54 AM Annex J

Annex J

ANNEX J
(Informative)
Live-Line Tools

(From 29 CFR 1910.269 – Electric Power Generation, Transmission,

and Distribution)

(j) Live-line tools

1. Design of tools. Live-line tool rods, tubes, and poles shall be designed and
constructed to withstand the following minimum tests:
i. If the tool is made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP), it shall
withstand 328,100 volts per meter (100,000 volts per foot) of length for 5
minutes, or
Note to paragraph (j)(1)(i): Live-line tools using rod and tube that meet
ASTM F711-02 (2007), Standard Specification for Fiberglass-Reinforced
Plastic (FRP) Rod and Tube Used in Live Line Tools, are deemed to
comply with paragraph (j)(1) of this section.

ii. If the tool is made of wood, it shall withstand 246,100 volts per meter
(75,000 volts per foot) of length for 3 minutes, or
iii. The tool shall withstand other tests that the employer can demonstrate
are equivalent.

[Link] 1/2
1/7/22, 10:54 AM Back Cover

[Link] 1/2
~.

Safety Standards Checklist

Intent of Checklists 3
General Safety 3
Emergency Procedures and Readiness 4
Personal Protective Equipment 5
Job Briefing and Worksite Setup 6
Traffic Control 7
Fire Protection 7
Electrical Hazards General 8
Incidental Line Clearance 10

Utility Line Clearance (29 CFR 1910.269) 13

Vehicles, Mobile and Towed Equipment 16

Aerial Devices 18

Brush Chippers 22

Sprayers and Related Equipment 23

Stump Grinders 24

Vehicles 25
Cranes and Knucklebooms 25
Specialized Units 28
Equipment Mounted Winches 29

Portable Power Hand Tools (General) 30

Portable Electric Power Tools 31

Chain Saws 31

Powered hand tools and Backpack Power Units 33

Hand Tools and Ladders (General) 33

Cant Hooks, Cant Dogs, Peavey's and Tongs 33

Wedges, Chisels, and Gouges 34

1
 •·a~w
Chopping Tools 34
Ladders 35
Tree Climbing Procedures 36
Ropes and Arborist Equipment 37
Pruning and Trimming 39
Cabling 40
Rigging 41
Tree Removal 43
Brush Removal and Chipping 46
Limbing and Bucking 47
Pesticide Application 48

High-Pressure Air-Excavation Equipment 50

Fertilization/Soil Management 50
,~

2
Intent of Checklists
These checklists are prepared to assist students, supervisors, operators, and inspectors with
knowledge of and compliance with ANSI Z133 (2017 edition). They should be used in
conjunction with the actual standards and regulations and are not intended as a substitute for
ANSI Z133 or OSHA regulations. Interpretations are based on the opinion of the author and do
not necessarily reflect the interpretation or opinions of Academy Trained, LLC.

General Safety
Item Yes No Ref

Tools and equipment comply with ANSI/OSHA ANSI Z133-3.1.1

Employees are instructed in use, inspection, and ANSI Z133 -3.1.2

maintenance of PPE, tools, and other equipment

Safety related work practices are in accordance with OSHA ANSI Z133 - 3.1.3
and industry best practices including ANSI and ASTM

Manufacturer's recommendations are followed ANSI Z133-3.1.3

3
Emergency Procedures and Readiness
Item Yes No Ref

Personnel are instructed in emergency response ANSI Z133 - 3.2.1

Personnel know emergency phone numbers ANSI Z133 - 3.2.1

First aid kits meet ANSI Z308.1 standards ANSI Z133 - 3.2.2

First aid kits have appropriate contents for the job ANSI Z133 - 3.2.2

First aid kits appropriate for number of workers ANSI Z133 - 3.2.2

Personnel are instructed on poisonous plants, stinging & ANSI Z133 - 3.2.3
biting insects, and other common pests

Personnel are trained in emergency response and rescue ANSI Z133 - 3.2.4

Personnel are trained in hazards to the rescuer ANSI Z133 - 3.2.4

At least two workers trained in first aid/CPR for crews of 2 or ANSI Z133 - 3.2.5
more OR one worker trained in first aid/CPR if all new hires
trained in first aid within 3 months of hire.

New workers trained in first aid within 3 months of hire ANSI Z133 - 3.2.5

4
Personal Protective Equipment
Item Yes No Ref

PPE is required at worksite ANSI Z133 - 3.3.1

JSA/JHA completed for worksite to assess hazards ANSI Z133 - 3.3.2

PPE identified during JSA/JHA ANSI Z133 - 3.3.2

Head protection conforms with ANSI Z89.1 ANSI Z133 - 3.3.4

Class E helmets are worn around electrical conductors ANSI Z133 - 3.3.4

Personnel know not to rely on dielectric capabilities of Class ANSI Z133 - 3.3.4
E helmets

Noise levels are determined for worksite ANSI Z133 - 3.3.5

Hearing protection is provided and worn if sound levels ANSI Z133 - 3.3.5
exceed standards (85db TWA in 8 hour period)

Eye protection is worn at all times while engaged in ANSI Z133 - 3.3.6
arboriculture operations

Eye protection complies with ANSI Z87.1 ANSI Z133 - 3.3.6

Clothing and footwear is appropriate to known worksite and ANSI Z133 3.3.7
approved by employer

Clothing and footwear appropriate to known worksite and ANSI Z133 - 3.3.7
worn by the employee

Cut-resistant leg protection meets or exceeds ASTM F1414 ANSI Z133 - 3.3.8
and ASTM F1897

Personnel engaged in chainsaw operations on the ground ANSI Z133 - 3.3.8

use approved cut-resistant leg protection

Face protection complies with federal regs and ANSI Z87.1 ANSI Z133 - 3.3.9

Respiratory protection complies with federal regs and ANSI ANSI Z133 - 3.3.10
Z88.2

Job Briefing and Worksite Setup

I
item I I I
Yes No Ref

5
A qualified arborist has made the determination of whether ANSI Z133 - 3.4.1
or not direct supervision is needed

Underground utilities are marked before digging by ANSI Z133 - 3.4.2

utility-locating service

For underground utilities on private property, other ANSI Z133 - [Link]

resources are used to locate and mark underground utilities

Job briefing is conducted by qualified arborist in charge ANSI Z133 - 3.4.3

before the start of the job

Job briefing is communicated to all affected workers ANSI Z133 - 3.4.3

Employees working alone perform tasks as if a job briefing ANSI Z133 - 3.4.3
was required/conducted

A communications protocol between ground and aloft ANSI Z133 - 3.4.4

workers is established before commencing operations and 3.4.5

Voice and radio comms utilize a command and response ANSI Z133 - 3.4.4
protocol

Hand signals and whistles are considered as forms of ANSI Z133 - 3.4.4
communication

Eye contact or line of sight established between ANSI Z133 - 3.4.4

communicators

Drop zone designated ANSI Z133 - 3.4.6.

Drop zone enforced ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Consider establishing visible drop zone ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Electrical hazards identified by qualified arborist ANSI Z133 - 3.4.7

Qualified arborist inspects tree prior to work ANSI Z133 - 3.4.8

Root collar and area immediately surrounding tree inspected ANSI Z133 - 3.4.8

Qualified arborist determines if tree can withstand the forces ANSI Z133 - 3.4.9
of work

More thorough assessment made if safety questions remain ANSI Z133 - [Link]
after inspection

A second arborist, arborist trainee, or other worker trained in ANSI Z133 - 3.4.10
emergency procedures is within visual or voice comms

6
Traffic Control
Item Yes No Ref

Traffic and pedestrian control established ANSI Z133 - 3.5.1

Temporary traffic control zone workers trained in techniques, ANSI Z133 - 3.5.2
device usage & placement, and personal safety

High-visibility safety apparel meeting ANSl/ISEA 107 is worn ANSI Z133 - 3.5.3

The Traffic control zone impedes traffic minimally ANSI Z133 - 3.5.4
Devices are used in accordance with MUTCD ANSI Z133 - 3.5.4

There is a separate path of movement for pedestrians ANSI Z133 - 3.5.5

Pedestrian path is different than bicycle path ANSI Z133 - 3.5.5

Pedestrian path is safe, convenient, and accessible ANSI Z133 - 3.5.5

Fire Protection
Item Yes No Ref

Personnel are instructed in use and location of ANSI Z133 - 3.6.1

vehicle-mounted fire extinguishers

Engine is shut down when fueling equipment ANSI Z133 - 3.6.2

Fuel and flammable liquids are stored, handled, and ANSI Z133 - 3.6.2
dispensed from approved containers

Fueling location is at least 10 feet from operating equipment ANSI Z133 - 3.6.2

Spilled fuel is cleaned before restarting equipment ANSI Z133 - 3.6.2

Flammable liquid containers are clearly marked ANSI Z133 - 3.6.3

No equipment is operating within 1O feet of any area where ANSI Z133 - 3.6.4
fueling had recently taken place

No smoking around flammable liquids ANSI Z133 - 3.6.5

No smoking in fuel contaminated clothing ANSI Z133 - 3.6.5

Fuel contaminated clothing is changed, removed, or ANSI Z133 - 3.6.6

replaced

7
Open flames and ignition sources are avoided ANSI 2133 - 3.6.7
Dead/combustible material is kept clear of hot or operating ANSI 2133 - 3.6.8
equipment

Combustion engines equipped with a spark arrestor (if ANSI 2133 - 3.6.9
required)

If equipped with spark arrestor, it conforms to standards (36 ANSI 2133 - 3.6.9
CFR 261.52, SAE Standard J335, USDA Forest Service
Spec 5100-1)

Electrical Hazards General

Item Yes No Ref

Review General Safety Requirements Checklist ANSI 2133-4.1.1

Employees trained that all overhead and underground ANSI 2133 - 4.1.2
electrical conductors, guy wires, pole grounds, and
communication wires & cables shall be considered
energized with potentially fatal voltages

Training is determined by the risk to employees for hazards ANSI 2133 4.1.3
involved

Employees are instructed that the human body is ANSI 2133 - 4.1.4
conductive and poses little resistance to electrical current

Employees are instructed that the human body will provide ANSI 2133 -4.1.4
a path of flow to a grounded object or to the ground itself

Employees are instructed that direct or indirect contact ANSI 2133 - 4.1.4
(phase-to-ground) with an energized conductor including
tree limb, tool, equipment, or other energized object may
lead to electric shock, significant injury, or death

Employees are instructed that the woody parts of trees, ANSI 2133 -4.1.4
leaves, branches, needles, palm fronts, etc., are conductive

Employees are instructed that simultaneous contact with ANSI 2133 -4.1.4
two separate energized conductors (phase-to-phase) will
cause electric shock that may result in serious or fatal injury

Employees are instructed that electrical shock may occur ANSI Z133 -4.1.4
as a result of ground fault when a person stands near a
grounded object that becomes energized such as an aerial
device.

8
Employees are instructed that step potential exists around ANSI Z133-4.1.4
downed conductors or energized grounded object

A qualified arborist inspects for electrical hazards before ANSI Z133 - 4.1.5
work

Movement such as sag, wind, or other forces of an ANSI Z133 - 4.1.6

electrical supply line is considered during inspection

Qualification of arborists to work within 1O feet of circuits, is ANSI Z133-4.1.7

determined by a combination of training and experience

Unqualified arborists maintain the MAD IAW Table 1 of ANSI Z133 -4.1.7
ANSI Z133

MAD for unqualified arborists not trained to work within 1O feet

kV Ft-in M

50.0 and less 10-00 3.048

50.1 to 72.5 11-00 3.353

72.6 to 121.0 12-08 3.861

138.0 to 145.0 13-04 4.064

161.0 to 169.0 14-00 4.267

230.0 to 242.0 16-08 5.080

345.0 to 362.0 20-08 6.299

500.0 to 550.0 26-08 8.128

785.0 to 880.0 35-00 10.668

Climbing is done on the side away from energized electrical ANSI Z133 - 4.1.8
conductors

The climber's body, gear, and equipment is maintained IAW ANSI Z133 - 4.1.9
MAD as measured radially from the climber

The climber's tie in point is above the work position ANSI 2133-4.1.10

A fall will swing the climber away from conductors

The climber's rope is non-conductive ANSI 2133-4.1.11

Portable ladders don't have conductive side rails ANSI Z133 - 4.1.12

9
Distances of ladders, platforms, and aerial devices, ANSI Z133-4.1.13
including insulated devices, are maintained IAW MAD

If equipment temporarily violates MAD, workers know to ANSI Z133 - 4.1.14

move away.

Employees know that emergency response for electrical ANSI Z133-4.1.15

contact shall be conducted IAW ANSI Z133 - 3.2

Current weather is not adverse (thunderstorms, high winds, ANSI Z133 - 4.1.16
snow storms, ice storms etc)

Incidental Line Clearance

Item Yes No Ref

Review the General Electrical Hazard Checklist ANSI Z133 - 4.2.1

Workers are trained in safety related work practices for ANSI Z133 - 4.2.2
hazards they are exposed to

Safety related work practices are put into action ANSI Z133 - 4.2.3

Safety related work practices are consistent with nature and ANSI Z133 - 4.2.3
the extent of electrical hazards present

Incidental line clearance arborists are trained in the skills ANSI Z133 - 4.2.4
necessary to distinguish exposed live parts from other parts
of electrical equipment

Incidental line clearance arborists are trained in the skills ANSI Z133 - 4.2.4
and techniques to determine nominal voltage of exposed
live parts

Incidental line clearance arborists are trained in the MAD ANSI Z133 - 4.2.4
and voltages from Table 2 of ANSI Z133

Lines are de-energized if working without insulated tools ANSI Z133 - 4.2.5

If de-energized, the system owner/operator declares the ANSI Z133 - 4.2.5

system safe

MAD maintained IAW Table 2 of ANSI Z133 ANSI Z133 - 4.2.6

MAD for incidental line clearance - alternatina current

kV Ft-in M

0.300 and less Avoid contact Avoid contact

10
.0301 to .0750 1-06 0.457

0.751to5.0 2-09 0.838

5.1to15.0 2-10 0.864

15.1to36.0 3-04 1.016

36.1to46.0 3-08 1.118

46.1 to 72.05 4-04 1.321

72.6 to 121.0 12-08 3.861

138.0 to 145.0 13-04 4.064

161.0 to 169.0 14-00 4.268

230.0 to 242.0 16-08 5.080

345.0 to 362.0 20-08 6.300

500 to 550.0 26-08 8.128

785.0 to 800.0 35 10.668

Branches and other parts of tree within MAD that are ANSI Z133 - 4.2.7
browned or charred are considered likely to become
re-energized without warning and treated as energized

Avoid climbing around browned or charred tree parts ANSI Z133 -4.2.7

Tools not rated as insulated for the voltage exposed are ANSI Z133 - 4.2.8
considered conductive

11
Utility Line Clearance (29 CFR 1910.269)
Item Yes No Ref

Review the General Electrical Hazard Checklist ANSI Z133 - 4.3.1

Employees working in proximity to electrical conductors are ANSI Z133 - 4.3.2

qualified (QLCA or Trainee)

Qualified employees are trained in work related practices, ANSI Z133 - 4.3.2
procedures and other requirements that pertain to the
assignment

Qualified employees are trained in work-related rescue ANSI Z133 - 4.3.2

procedures that pertain to assignment

Qualified employees are trained and competent in the ANSI Z133 - 4.3.3
skills and techniques necessary to distinguish exposed,
energized parts from other parts of electric equipment.

Qualified employees are trained in the skills and techniques ANSI Z133 - 4.3.3
necessary to determine the nominal voltage of exposed
electrical parts

Qualified employees are trained in The MAD from table 3 of ANSI Z133 - 4.3.3
ANSI Z-133

Qualified employees are trained in techniques and ANSI Z133 - 4.3.3

procedures to maintain MAD

Employer verified that employee has demonstrated ANSI Z133 - 4.3.4

proficiency

QLCA trainee is under direct supervision of QLCA when ANSI Z133 - 4.3.5
performing line clearance work

If performing storm work or similar, employees are trained ANSI Z133 - 4.3.6
in specific hazards to the work and in the hazards of step
potential

Weather conditions are favorable ANSI Z133 - 4.3.7

Work is suspended during adverse weather or emergency ANSI Z133 - 4.3.7

conditions.

Notify the system owner/operator if work is suspended due ANSI Z133 - 4.3.7
to weather or emergency conditions.

Electrical system owner/operator/host employer ANSI Z133 - 4.3.8

12
communicated relevant hazards

Work rules and procedures are coordinated with the host ANSI Z133 -4.3.8
employer prior to beginning work

Crew is advised of unique hazardous conditions by the host ANSI Z133 - 4.3.8
employer

The host employer is notified of any unanticipated hazard ANSI Z133 - 4.3.8
conditions within 2 working days

A second QLCA or trainee trained in emergency ANSI Z133 - 4.3.9

procedures and within unassisted voice range is present
during MAD work in excess of 750 volts (primary conductor)

A second QLCA or trainee trained in emergency ANSI Z133 - 4.3.9

procedures is within unassisted voice range if branches or
limbs are being removed which cannot be first cut with an
insulated saw

A second QLCA or trainee trained in emergency ANSI Z133 - 4.3.9

procedures is within unassisted voice range if roping is
required to clear lines of tree parts

Insulated pruning tools are constructed to withstand ANSI Z133 - 4.3.10

minimum testing in accordance with annex J, of ANSI Z133

MAD is maintained IAW Table 3 of ANSI Z133 ANSI Z133 - 4.3.11

13
 -
Table 3. Minimum approach distances (MAD) from energized conductors for qualified line-
clearance arborlsts and qualified line-clearance arborfst trainees.
Altitude Correction Altitude Correction Altitude Correction
Factor Factor Factor
sea Level to 5,000 to 10.000 ft 10,000 to 14,000 ft
5,000ft (0- (1,524-3,048 m)• (3,048-4,267 m)•
1,524m)•
Vol~e Ranie
(Phase-to-Phase) Phase--to-Ground Phas..to·Ground Pha•to-Ground
kV ft·in m ft·in m ft·ln m
0_050 to 0.300 Avofd Contact Avoid Contact Avoid Contact
0.301 to 0.7SO 1-02 0.356 1·04 0.407 1-06 0.458
0.751 to s.o 2-03 0.686 2-06 0.762 2-09 0.839
S.1to15.0 2-03 0.686 2-07 0.788 2·10 0.864
lS.1to36.0 2-08 0.813 3·01 0.940 3-04 1.016
36.1 to46.0 2·11 0.889 3.04 1.016 3-08 1.118
46.l to 72.S 3-06 1.067 4-00 1.220 4·04 1.321
72.6 to 121.0 3-11 1.194 4-06 1.372 4-10 1.474
121.1to145.0 4-06 1.372 5-02 1.575 5-07 1.702
145.1 to 169.0 5-01 1.550 5-09 1.753 6-03 1.905
169.1to242.0 7-00 2.134 7-11 2.413 8-07 2.617
I 242.1to362.0 11· 09 3.582 B -06 4.115 14-07 4.445
362.1 to 420.0 14-08 4.471 16-09 S.106 18-02 5.538
420.1to550.0 17·06 S.334 20.00 6.096 21-08 6.604
55().1 to soo.o 23.09 7.239 27-02 8.281 29-05 8.967
•from 29 CFR l910.269 Tables R-6 & R-7 altitude corrected (R~5) for 1,500 m, 3,000 m, & 4,200 m.

There is coordination with owner/operator and mitigation of ANSI Z133 - 4.3.12

hazards if MAD cannot be maintained

If using protective grounds, verify that they are installed as ANSI Z133 - 4.3.12
close as practical to the work area

Potentially live branches are only removed with insulated ANSI Z133 -4.3.13
tools

Charred or browned branches are treated with caution ANSI Z133 - 4.3.14

Charred or browned branches are assessed by both a ANSI Z133 - 4.3.14

QLCA and supervisor if climbing is considered

The arborist in charge establishes a plan to perform work ANSI Z133 -4.3.14
on trees with browned or charred branches

Work strategies are IAW contract employer and host utility ANSI Z133 - 4.3.14

Rubber gloves are considered as conductive and as ANSI Z133 - 4.3.15

providing no measure of safety

All footwear is considered as conductive and as providing ANSI Z133 - 4.3.16

no measure of safety

14
Vehicles, Mobile and Towed Equipment
Item Yes No Ref

Review the General Safety Checklist ANSI Z133 -5.1.1

Pre trip inspections are performed on all equipment ANSI Z133 - 5.1.2

Post trip inspections are performed on all equipment ANSI Z133-5.1.2

Unsafe and defective equipment is removed from ANSI Z133 - [Link]

operation

Equipment removed from operation is documented and ANSI Z133 - [Link]

labeled (LOTO is best practice)

If operator's vision is obstructed or unclear, a walk ANSI Z133-5.1.3

through inspection is conducted to identify hazards not
seen by operator

Hazards identified during a walk-through are included in ANSI Z133-5.1.3

job briefing and JSA

All manufacturer's safety devices, instructions, decals, ANSI Z133 -5.1.4

and safeguards are in place on equipment

Manufacturer's preventative maintenance, inspections ANSI Z133-5.1.5

and, parts replacement schedule has been completed

Training is conducted that no part of the body shall be ANSI Z133 - 5.1.6
used to stop or slow hydraulic leaks

Operators are employer authorized ANSI Z133 - 5.1.7

Equipment inspectors are employer authorized ANSI Z133 - 5.1.7

Equipment technicians are employer authorized ANSI Z133 - 5.1.7

Cargo and equipment that is carried on ANSI Z133 - 5.1.8

equipment/vehicles is properly stowed and secured

Manufacturer provided slip resistant surfaces are ANSI Z133-5.1.9

maintained

Safety seat belts are used ANSI 2133-5.1.10

There is no riding or working outside on equipment unless ANSI Z133-5.1.11

the equipment is so designed

Hoisting and lifting equipment is used within its rated ANSI Z133 - 5.1.12
capacities

15
 Backing

Avoid backing equipment with an obstructed view or with ANSI Z133-5.1.13

a trailer

Backup alarm is functioning ANSI Z133 -5.1.13

If no backup alarm, a spotter is used ANSI Z133-5.1.13

If no backup alarm or spotter is used, the operator ANSI Z133 - 5.1.13

conducts visual walk around inspection immediately prior
to maneuvering

Unattended Vehicles and Maintenance

Attachments are stowed, cradled, or lowered to the ANSI Z133-5.1.15

ground if left unattended

If left unattended, keys are removed, wheels chocked, ANSI Z133 - 5.1.15
and parking brake is applied

Equipment is shut off during repairs (unless required to ANSI Z133 - 5.1.15
remain on)

Keys are removed from ignition during repairs. ANSI Z133 - 5.1 .15

LOTO procedure is followed including releasing stored ANSI Z133 -5.1.15

energy prior to repairs

Towing

Safety chains are crossed under the tongue ANSI Z133 - 5.1.16

Safety chains are of the appropriate length ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Safety chains are not twisted or knotted ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Connecting links are the same grade and size as the ANSI Z133-[Link]
safety chains

Coupling devices are in place and in proper working ANSI Z133 - [Link]
condition

Emergency break away devices are in place and in ANSI Z133 -[Link]
working condition

The tow is within the towing capacity of the equipment ANSI Z133-[Link]

Manufacturer's towing capacity and GCWR are not ANSI Z133 -[Link]
exceeded unless allowed by law

16
Wheels are chocked prior to detaching tow ANSI Z133 - 5.1.17

Exhaust does not present a fire hazard ANSI Z133 - 5.1.18

Off road equipment is operated in appropriate gear ANSI 2133-5.1.19

Off road equipment is operated at appropriate speed ANSI Z133 - 5.1.19

Operator protective structures meet SAE standards ANSI Z133 - 5.1.20

Equipment body props are installed and used when a ANSI Z133 - 5.1.21
dump body is raised and workers access the area
underneath

Body props are accessible without going under raised part ANSI Z133 - 5.1.21

Driver knows the GVWR and GCWR of vehicle and tow ANSI Z133 - 5.1.22

Driver knows the height of the vehicle and any towed ANSI Z133 - 5.1.23
equipment

Aerial Devices
Item Yes No Ref

Review the Vehicles, Mobile, and Towed Equipment ANSI Z133 - 5.2.1
Checklist

Worksite is surveyed for hazards: ANSI Z133 - 5.2.2

• Insufficient supporting surfaces, such as soft
ground
• Ditches
• Excessive slopes, drop-offs, curbs, and floor
obstructions
• Debris
• Overhead obstructions and electrical conductors
• Weather conditions
• Presence of unauthorized persons
• Road or worksite traffic
• Subsurface chambers, such as underground utility
components or septic systems

Aerial device not used as as crane, unless designed to do ANSI Z133 - 5.2.3
so

A minimum of 2 wheel chocks are used (unless there are ANSI Z133 - 5.2.4

17
no wheels on ground or equipment is designed for use
without chocks)

Outriggers are used if equipped ANSI Z133 - 5.2.5

Outriggers are set on pads ANSI Z133 - 5.2.5

Outriggers are set on pads before before un-cradling ANSI Z133 - 5.2.5

The operator ensures adequate clearance for outriggers ANSI Z133 - 5.2.6

The operator gives a warning prior to lowering outriggers ANSI Z133 - 5.2.6

Fall protection anchors that conform to ANSl/SIAA92.2 ANSI Z133 - 5.2.7

are present

The person aloft is wearing properly adjusted fall ANSI Z133 - [Link]
protection equipment

There is a 3600 pound rated gate on fall protection ANSI Z133 - [Link]
carabiners and snap hooks

Carabiniers and snap hooks are not linked together ANSI Z133 - [Link]
(unless designed by manufacturer to do so)

Combined loads don't exceed rated capacity ANSI Z133 - 5.2.8

Load ratings are permanently posted on the device ANSI Z133 - 5.2.8

The number of occupants doesn't exceed capacity/load ANSI Z133 - 5.2.9

Operator is standing on floor and not using any other ANSI Z133 - 5.2.10
device such as ladder or bucket to gain reach

Occupant is not wearing spurs or gaffs ANSI Z133 - 5.2.11

Sheath or scabbard is utilized over sharp edged tools in ANSI Z133 - 5.2.12
the bucket

Hand saw is present during pruning/removal operations ANSI Z133 - 5.2.13

Inspection of aerial device (walk around) conducted before ANSI Z133 - 5.2.14
travel:
• Boom cradled and secured
• Tools are secured
• Outriggers are stowed or positioned for travel
• Wheel chocks stowed
• Outrigger pads stowed
• Walk around entire vehicle and check for places
were tools or containers are often temporarily
placed

18
Operator is looking primarily in the direction of boom travel ANSI Z133 - 5.2.15
when operating

Operator maintains situational awareness: ANSI Z133 - 5.2.15

• Boom area
• Elbow/knuckle area
• All other hazards

When entering a tree from the bucket, climber remains ANSI Z133 - 5.2.16
anchored to bucket until secured in the tree

Climber is not secured to both aerial device and tree when ANSI Z133 - 5.2.16
performing work

Arborist is secured at all times when transferring from one ANSI Z133 - 5.2.17
bucket to another, to facilitate emergency descent

Lower controls are not used for continuous operation ANSI Z133 - 5.2.18
during lift operation

Lower controls are not operated without permission of the ANSI Z133 - [Link]
person aloft (except in emergency situations)

Clearance from passing vehicles is maintained when ANSI Z133 - 5.2.19

operating over roadways

Traffic control is provided if clearance cannot be ANSI Z133 - 5.2.19.

maintained over roadways

Clearances are maintained for outriggers that extend into ANSI Z133 - [Link]
or over lanes of travel

Elevated platforms on vehicle are not used for pruning or ANSI Z133 - 5.2.20
other operations unless the individual is protected from a
fall

Hydraulic and pneumatic tools are disconnected when ANSI Z133 - 5.2.21
serviced or adjusted

Pressure is released before disconnecting non-quick ANSI Z133 - 5.2.22

connect tools

No part of body is used to locate or stop hydraulic leaks ANSI Z133 - 5.2.23

Hoses that affect dielectric characteristics meet the aerial ANSI Z133 - 5.2.24
lift manufacturer's requirements.

The flash point of hydraulic fluid meets the aerial lift ANSI Z133 - 5.2.25
manufacturer's requirements

The lift, or any part of it, doesn't violate MAD ANSI Z133 - 5.2.26

19
 and 5.2.27

If MAD is violated, workers on the ground move away until ANSI Z133 - [Link]
MAD is reestablished (due to step potential)

Spotter is used if working close to MAD or MAD might be ANSI Z133 - 5.2.27
violated

Spotter warns and orders to move if MAD is violated ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Electrical cords/cables are not run from vehicle to bucket ANSI Z133 - 5.2.28
when arborists are working in proximity to energized
electrical conductors

Platforms on insulated aerial devices have no through ANSI Z133 - 5.2.29

cracks or holes below the lip of the platform

Insulated liners have no holes below the lip of the liner or ANSI Z133 - 5.2.29
vertical cracks greater than 6 inches

MAD is maintained consistent with training level for all ANSI Z133 - 5.2.30
workers

Employees are trained that insulated platforms do not ANSI Z133 - 5.2.31
protect them from electric paths to the ground.

Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms

Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms (such as JLG ANSI Z133 - 5.2.32
Lift} are operated within intended limits

Boom Supported Elevating Work Platform operator is ANSI Z133 - 5.2.33

properly trained:
• Location of the manual
• Familiarized with controls
• Familiarized with safety devices
• Familiarized with operating characteristics

Insulated Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms meet ANSI Z133 - 5.2.34
electric safety requirements of ANSl/SIAA92.2

Operator of Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms ANSI Z133 - 5.2.34

assesses the worksite hazards present

Operator of Boom Supported Elevating Work Platforms ANSI Z133 - 5.2.34

develops, communicates and implements a work plan to
mitigate hazards

20
Brush Chippers
Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.3.1

Access panels and guards are closed and secured prior to ANSI Z133 - 5.3.2
starting engine

Access panels remain closed during operation and until ANSI Z133 - 5.3.2
moving parts have come to a complete stop

Access panels remain closed until the ignition key has ANSI Z133 - 5.3.2
been removed and pocketed

Rotary drum and disc brush chippers have infeed hoppers ANSI Z133 - 5.3.3
not less than 85 inches (should be manufactured that way)

Chippers with mechanical infeed system have hoppers not ANSI Z133 - 5.3.3
less than 85 inches (should be manufactured that way)

Rotary drum or disc brush system not equipped with a ANSI Z133 - 5.3.4
mechanical infeed system have a flexible anti-kickback
device installed in the infed hopper (should be
manufactured that way)

Mechanical infeed chippers have a quick stop and ANSI Z133 - 5.3.5
reversing device (should be manufactured that way)

PPE worn in close proximity to chippers: ANSI Z133 - 5.3.6

• Eye
• Hearing
• Other appropriate

A Personal Protective Equipment Hazard Certification ANSI Z133 - 5.3.6

(JHA) has been completed by the employer

No reaching beyond the plane of the infeed hopper when ANSI Z133 - 5.3.7
discs/drums are moving

Review Brush Removal and Chipping Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.3.8

Sprayers and Related Equipment

Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.4.1

21
Working and walking surfaces are covered with skid ANSI Z133 - 5.4.2
resistant material

Guard rails are fitted where the operator stands when ANSI Z133 - 5.4.3
vehicle is in motion

Guard rails are constructed in accordance with ANSI ANSI Z133 - 5.4.3
A1264.1

Fittings and hoses are of sufficient strength to withstand or ANSI Z133 - 5.4.3
exceed the maximum pressure of the system

No part of the body is used to locate leaks or damaged ANSI Z133 - 5.4.4
sections

Operator is aware of location and use of all safety shut-off ANSI Z133 - 5.4.5
valves

All tanks have a means to determine level of liquid in the ANSI Z133 - 5.4.6
tanks without opening the lid

Applicator/operator makes visual inspection of hoses, ANSI Z133 - 5.4.7

fittings, exposed plumbing, tanks , covers and related
equipment prior to use each day

Applicator/operator doesn't allow hoses or other parts to ANSI Z133 - 5.4.8

become tripping hazards

Applicator/operator has firm grip on spray gun when ANSI Z133 - 5.4.9
pulling the trigger

No entering of exposed tanks unless under a confined ANSI Z133 - 5.4.10

space program

Related Equipment

Applicator/operator is aware of underground utility ANSI Z133 - 5.4.11 .1

locations when drilling holes

Underground utility locations are determined by calling ANSI Z133 - 5.4.11 .1

"Call before you Dig" national number 811

Equipment has splash guards fitted ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Applicator is wearing eye protection when injecting liquids ANSI Z133 - [Link]
into the ground

Applicator is wearing eye protection when injecting liquid ANSI Z133 - [Link]
into trees

22
Stump Grinders
Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.5.1

Stump grinder is equipped with enclosure or guard ANSI Z133 - 5.5.2

Enclosure or guards is in place when grinding ANSI Z133 - 5.5.2

PPE is in use: ANSI Z133 - 5.5.3
• Eye
• Hearing
• Other personal protective equipment

Operator is aware of underground utility locations prior to ANSI Z133 - 5.5.4

performing work

Operator contacted "Call before you Dig" national number ANSI Z133 - 5.5.4
811

Operator ensures other personnel are clear when ANSI Z133 - 5.5.5
operating

Operator ensures no secondary activities (such as backfill) ANSI Z133 - 5.5.6

is taking place when cutting wheel is engaged

Operator remains at controls until cutting wheel stopped ANSI Z133 - 5.5.7
(non remote control machines)

Operator remains safe distance away until cutting wheel ANSI Z133 - 5.5.8
stopped (remote control machines)

Operator and cables remain clear of grinding wheel when ANSI Z133 - 5.5.9
in operation

If leaving machine unattended, operator turns off and ANSI Z133 - 5.5.10
places key in pocket

If no keyed ignition, the operator follows shutdown ANSI Z133 - 5.5.10

procedures if leaving unattended

Operator ensures grinding wheel is disengaged and ANSI Z133 - 5.5.11

stopped prior to moving equipment

Only employer authorized personnel perform maintenance ANSI Z133 - 5.5.12

Maintenance is performed IAW LOTO (control of ANSI Z133 - 5.5.12

hazardous energy) procedures

23
Key removed and pocketed when not in use or shut down ANSI Z133 - 5.5.13
if no keyed ignition

Vehicles
Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.6.1

Regulated vehicles are operated IAW Federal Motor ANSI Z133 - 5.6.2
Carrier Safety Regulations, state, and local laws

Steel bulkhead or equivalent, for logs or other materials, is ANSI Z133 - 5.6.3
in place to protect driver

Load securement procedures are followed to prevent ANSI Z133 - 5.6.4

shifting of load

Loads do not: ANSI Z133 - 5.6.5

• Overhang sides
• Obscure tail lights
• Obscure brake lights
• Obscure vision
• Exceed height limits

Wood chips are not left in vehicles for extend periods ANSI Z133 - 5.6.6
(spontaneous combustion hazard)

Cranes and Knucklebooms

Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.7.1

Cranes are inspected IAW ASME 830.5 or ASME ANSI Z133 - 5.7.2
830.22 Standards and manufacturer's guidelines

Rigging equipment is inspected before each use ANSI Z133 - 5.7.2

Rigging equipment inspected IAW OSHA 1910.184 and ANSI Z133 - 5.7.2
manufacturer's guidelines

Operators are trained to maintain 1Oft MAD or greater ANSI Z133 - 5.7.3
and IAW MAD Table 1 of ANSI Z133

A apotter is used when MAD may be violated ANSI Z133 - 5.7.3

24
The spotter is positioned so as to effectively gauge ANSI Z133 - 5.7.3
distance and give timely information to the qualified
crane operator

A qualified crane operator is used ANSI Z133 - 5.7.4

Cranes are equipped to comply with ASME 830.5 or ANSI Z133 - 5.7.5
ASME 830.22

There are no hook throat openings on ball assemblies ANSI Z133 - 5.7.6
or other attachments

The crane operator remains at controls when a load is ANSI Z133 - 5.7.7
suspended

Tree sections are rigged to minimize load shifting ANSI Z133 - 5.7.8

Load is lowered in a controlled manner ANSI Z133 - 5.7.8

No shock loading of load ANSI Z133 - 5.7.8

No free fall of load ANSI Z133 - 5.7.8

The qualified crane operator, arborist in charge, and ANSI Z133 - 5.7.9
signal person meet prior to work being conducted

A Job briefing is conducted prior to work beginning ANSI Z133 - 5.7.9

The crane is set up IAW manufacturer's specifications ANSI Z133 - 5.7.10

Hoisting an Arborist

If being hoisted, the arborist is tied in above the hook to ANSI Z133 - 5.7.11
another anchor point or to the boom

Only a Qualified Arborist has authorized the use of the ANSI Z133 - 5.7.11
crane for hoisting persons

Hoisting a person was determined to be safest or only ANSI Z133 - 5.7.11

feasible method to perform the work or gain access

The arborist's climbing line does not interfere with the ANSI Z133- [Link]
function of the crane

The crane does not compromise the climbing line or ANSI Z133- [Link].1
other components

A second point of attachment on or above the hook or ANSI Z133 - [Link].2

to crane boom

There is continuous communication between the ANSI Z133- [Link]

25
arborist and crane operator (may utilize spotter to
maintain this)

Comms are maintained by either two way radio, voice, ANSI 2133-[Link]
or hand signals

Crane operator remained at controls while arborist is ANSI 2133- [Link]

attached

Hoisting speed doesn't exceed 100 ft/min or .Sm/second ANSI 2133-[Link]

No sudden acceleration or deceleration or moving of ANSI 2133- [Link]

load during hoisting

There is controlled lowering and no free falling of the ANSI 2133-[Link]

load line hoist

The crane carrier doesn't travel while the arborist is ANSI 2133- [Link]
attached

The load radius is estimated prior to hoisting the arborist ANSI 2133-[Link]

The qualified arborist is detached at any time a load is ANSI 2133- [Link]
suspended unless exceptions are met:
• Safer
• All other reasonably possible alternate methods
are inaccessible or would create greater risk
Alternate Methods considered:
• The qualified arborist securing to the tree an
detaching from the crane before it comes under
load
• Using a second crane
• Using an aerial lift device
• Using and adjacent tree

If remaining attached while load is suspended, total ANSI 2133- [Link].1

weight doesn't exceed 50 percent of the load capacity
for radius and configuration

Qualified arborist descended to the ground as soon as ANSI 2133- [Link].1

they have determined the piece is detached from the
tree and it is safe to do so

Arborist estimated weight of piece to be suspended ANSI 2133 - 5.7.12

prior to cutting

Load weight of piece communicated to crane operator ANSI 2133 - 5.7.12

After pick, crane operator compares the actual weight to ANSI 2133 - 5.7.12
estimated weight and communicates that to the qualified
arborist

26
The green log weight chart is utilized ANSI Z133 - 5.7.12

A suspended load doesn't exceed 75 percent of the ANSI Z133- 5.7.12

load chart capacity for crane

Radio comms are used during blind picks ANSI Z133 - 5.7.13

Radio comms are hands free ANSI Z133 - 5.7.13

Specialized Units
Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.8.1

Off-road and tracked vehicles are operated IAW the ANSI Z133 - 5.8.2
operating environment present

Off-road and tracked vehicles are operated IAW the ANSI Z133 - 5.8.2
manufacturer's instructions and guidelines

Towing equipment for brush hogs or similar is equipped ANSI Z133 - 5.8.3
with a deadman control

On deadman equipped equipment, workers disengage ANSI Z133 - 5.8.3

the power source to the rotary or cutter head before
dismounting.

Equipment Mounted Winches

Item Yes No Ref

Review Vehicles and Mobile Equipment Checklist ANSI Z133 - 5.9.1

Winch line line, fastenings, and attachments are ANSI Z133 - 5.9.2
inspected each day prior to use

Additional inspections are conducted during use when ANSI Z133 - 5.9.2
warranted

Damaged or defective winch lines are immediately ANSI Z133 - 5.9.2

removed from service

Winch line hooks and attachments are inspected for ANSI Z133 - 5.9.3
damage

27
Winch line gooks and attachemnts are removed from ANSI Z133 - 5.9.3
service if damaged or defective

Mounting bolts and hardware are inspected for loose or ANSI Z133 - 5.9.4
missing components

Winch is removed from service if mounting bolts and ANSI Z133 - 5.9.4
hardware don't pass inspection

Repairs are made to missing mounting bolts and ANSI Z133 - 5.9.4
hardware prior to placing winch back in service

Operators are aware of the hazards of load or winch line ANSI Z133 - 5.9.5
breakage

Personnel are clear of the winch line recoil area ANSI Z133 - 5.9.5

Winch operators are properly trained ANSI Z133 - 5.9.6

Winch operators are aware of inherent dangers ANSI Z133 - 5.9.6

Operator maintains situational awareness of the winch ANSI Z133 - 5.9.7

line at all times

Winch systems are only used as intended by the ANSI Z133 - 5.9.8
manufacturer

Winch line is not wrapped around a load (sling used) ANSI Z133 - 5.9.9

Winch is not operated with any personnel, including the ANSI Z133 - 5.9.10
operator, within the span of the winch line and the winch

All personnel maintain situational awareness of pinch ANSI Z133 - 5.9.11

points, including during operation

Loads are winched in such as manner as to maintain ANSI Z133 - 5.9.12

stability of the load and equipment

Loads are not pulled from side unless equipped with a ANSI Z133 - 5.9.13
fairlead

An operator pulling loads from side is properly trained to ANSI Z133 - 5.9.13
pull loads at an angle

Vehicle winching is supported to prevent unintended ANSI Z133- 5.9.14

movement

Rigging points are IAW Z133 8.5.11 and Rigging ANSI Z133 - 5.9.15
Checklist

Effective communications are established between all ANSI Z133 - 5.9.16

28
workers

Winch lines are compatible with design and ANSI Z133 - 5.9.17
manufacturer's specs

Winch line is properly stored before initiating chipper ANSI Z133 - 5.9.18
operations unless actively positioning material onto the
feed table and infeed hopper

Portable Power Hand Tools (General)

Item Yes No Ref

Review General Safety Requirements Checklist ANSI Z133- 6.1.1

Employer follows the manufacturer's operating, ANSI Z133-6.1.3

maintenance, and safety instructions unless doing so
poses a greater hazard

Communication is established between ground and aloft ANSI Z133-6.1.4

personnel before commencing work with portable tools.

Operators of tools ensure all others are clear of ANSI Z133-6.1.4

equipment, swing arc of cutting attachments, and the
immediate worksite

Call and response is utilized such as "stand clear" from ANSI Z133 - 6.1.5
aloft and "clear" from ground or hand signals

Hand signals, if used, are pre-arranged ANSI Z133-6.1.5

Workers stay out of the drop zone until it's ANSI Z133 - 6.15
communicated that it's safe to enter by arborist, trainee
or worker aloft

Chain saw or power hand tools carried aloft are secured ANSI Z133-6.1.6
against falling

Portable Electric Power Tools

Item Yes No Ref

Review Portable Power Hand Tools General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 6.2.1
above

Cored electric power tools not used where the cord may ANSI Z133 - 6.2.2

29
contact an electrical conductor

Corded portable electric power tools are: ANSI Z133 - 6.2.3

• equipped with three-wire cords with ground wire
permanently connected to the tool frame and a
means for grounding the other end or...
• Double insulated and permanently labeled
"double insulated" or .. .
• Connected to power supplies by means of an
isolating transformer or other isolated power
supply

Extension cords are maintained in safe condition ANSI Z133 - 6.2.4

Exposed metal sockets are not used ANSI Z133 - 6.2.4

Cords are managed against tangling, damage and ANSI Z133 - 6.2.5
water

Chain Saws
Item Yes No Ref

Review Portable Power Hand Tools General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 6.3.1
above

Manufacturer's safety devices are in proper working ANSI Z133 - 6.3.2

order

Safety devices are not removed or modified ANSI Z133 - 6.3.2

Operator has stable body position used when starting ANSI Z133 - 6.3.3
saw

Saw is not drop started ANSI Z133 - 6.3.4

Chain brake is engaged when starting ANS I Z133 - 6.3.4

When starting the saw, the saw held in a manner to ANSI Z133 - 6.3.4
minimize movement

Chainsaw is operated with two hands at all times ANSI Z133 - 6.3.5

One hand is on each handle of the saw ANSI Z133 - 6.3.5

Thumbs are wrapped around handles ANSI Z133 - 6.2.5

Chainsaw is handled at all times as above unless ANSI Z133 - [Link]

employer determined it unsafe or impractical to do so in

30
that particular situation

When operating a chainsaw in a tree, the arborist has a ANSI Z133 - 6.3.5
second means of being secured unless employer
determines that doing so poses a greater hazard in that
particular situation

The second means of securing is not another work ANSI Z133 - 6.3.6
positioning lanyard

Second means of securing is not both ends of a ANSI Z133 - 6.3.6

two-in-one system

Chain brake is engaged or engine shut off before setting ANSI Z133 - 6.3.7
a chain saw down

Chain brake is engaged or engine shut off when saw is ANSI Z133 - 6.3.8
being carried more than two steps

Saw is carried in a manner to protect operator from ANSI Z133 - 6.3.8

cutting chain and muffler

Body position of operator is stable before starting a cut ANSI Z133 - 6.3.9

Saw is not used above shoulder height unless employer ANSI Z133 - 6.3.9
demonstrates a greater hazard in that situation

Powered hand tools and Backpack Power Units

Item Yes No Ref

Review Portable Power Hand Tools General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 6.4.1
above

Powered pole tools and poles are of non-conductive ANSI Z133 - 6.4.2
material are used where electrical hazards exist

Hand Tools and Ladders (General)

Item Yes No Ref

Review General Safety Requirements Checklist ANSI Z133- 7.1.1

Correct hand tools and equipment are used for job ANSI Z133- 7.1.2

Hand tools are undamaged with no cracks, splintered or ANSI Z133- 7.1.3

31
weakened handles

Safe distance between workers ANSI Z133- 7.1.4

No hand tools in hands when climbing onto a tree ANSI Z133- 7.1.5
unless tools used to assist in climbing.

No throwing of tools ANSI Z133- 7.1.5

Tools are passed using throwline or rope ANSI Z133- 7.1.6

If hand lines or ropes are used to raise/lower tools, it's ANSI Z133- 7.1.6
done in such a manner as to not endanger the line with
sharp edges

Hand tools and equipment is properly stowed or in plain ANSI Z133- 7.1.7
sight and out of the immediate worksite when not in use

Cant Hooks, Cant Dogs, Peavey's and Tongs

Item Yes No Ref

Review Hand Tools and Ladders General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 7.2.1

Cant Hooks, cant dogs, peaveys, and tongs are firmly ANSI Z133 - 7.2.2
set before applying force

Points of hooks are at least 2" long ANSI Z133 - 7.2.3

Points of hooks are sharp ANSI Z133 - 7 .2.3

Workers stand uphill from rolling logs ANSI Z133 - 7 .2.4

Workers are warned and in the clear before logs are ANSI Z133 - 7.2.4
moved

Wedges, Chisels, and Gouges

Item Yes No Ref

Review Hand Tools and Ladders General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 7.3.1

Wedges, chisels and gouges are inspected for cracks ANSI Z133 - 7.3.2
and flaws before use

Tools with damaged heads are not used ANSI Z133 - 7 .3.2

32
Wedges and chisels are properly pointed and tempered ANSI Z133 - 7.3.3

Eye protection worn when using wedges, chisels, and ANSI Z133 - 7.3.4
gouges

Only wood, plastic, or soft metal wedges are used when ANSI Z133 - 7.3.5
operating chain saws

Wood handled chisels are protected with ferrule on the ANSI Z133 - 7.3.6
striking end

When striking wood handled chisels or gouges, wood ANSI Z133 - 7.3.7
rubber, or high-impact plastic mauls, sledges, or
hammers are used

Chopping Tools
Item Yes No Ref

Review Hand Tools and Ladders General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 7.4.1

Chopping tools are not used while working aloft ANSI Z133 - 7.4.2

Chopping tools are not used as wedges ANSI Z133 - 7.4.3

Chopping tools are not used to drive metal wedges ANSI Z133 - 7.4.3

Chopping tools are swung away from feet, legs, and ANSI Z133 - 7.4.4
body

Chopping tools are swung with minimum of force ANSI Z133 - 7.4.4
necessary

A firm footing and grip are maintained when swinging ANSI Z133 - 7 .4.5
chopping tools

Clearance between workers and objects overhead is ANSI Z133 - 7.4.5

maintained when swinging chopping tools

Ladders
Item Yes No Ref

Review Hand Tools and Ladders General Checklist ANSI Z133 - 7.5.1

Only wooden ladders that conform to ANSI A14.1 or ANSI Z133 - 7.5.2

33
non-conductive ladders made of synthetic material
equal to or exceeding the strength of wooden ladders
are used around electrical hazards

Metal ladders, when allowed, conform to ANSI A 14.2 ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.3

Ladders are inspected before use ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.4

Defective ladders are removed from service ANSI Z133 - 7.5.4

Ladders are secured by cleats, metal points, skid ANSI Z133 - 7.5.5
resistant feet, lashing, or other effective means where
there is danger of slipping

Ladders are not used as bridge or incline plane to load ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.6
or handle logs or other material

Ladders are supported while in storage to prevent ANSI Z133 - 7.5.7

sagging

Ladders are stored under suitable cover, protected from ANSI Z133 - 7.5.7
weather, and kept in a dry location away from excessive
heat, except when on mobile equipment

The third or hinged leg of a tripod/orchard ladder is ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.8

braced or fastened when on hard or slick surfaces

Ladders are used IAW manufacturer's ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.9

recommendations

Ladder's are unaltered ANSI Z133 - 7 .5.9

Tree Climbing Procedures

Item Yes No Ref

Review General Safety Requirements Checklist ANSI Z133- 8.1.1

A second arborist, arborist trainee, or other worker ANSI Z133 - 8.1.2

trained in emergency procedures is within visual or
voice comms when working above 12 feet

Defective climbing lines are removed from service ANSI Z133 - 8.1.3

If defective lines are reused for non-critical purposes, ANSI Z133- 8.1.3
that determination was made by qualified person

Two means of being secured are on the climber and ANSI Z133-8.1.4

34
available (example: climbing line and work positioning
lanyard)

Climber has a hand saw ANSI Z133- 8.1.5

Hand saw is a folding type or has a scabbard ANSI Z133 - 8.1.5

Climber is tied in at all times when ascending including ANSI Z133 - 8.1.6
when using spurs/gaffs

Climber is tied in when work begins ANSI Z133- 8.1.6

Climber remains tied in until returned to the ground ANSI Z133-8.1.6

Climber is secured when repositioning the climbing line ANSI Z133-8.1.6

Climber pre-loads a new tie-in with their full weight ANSI Z133-8.1.6
before releasing the current means of being secured

If accessing with a ladder, the climber doesn't work from ANSI Z133-8.1.7
or leave ladder until tied in

Hands and feet are on separate limbs when climbing ANSI Z133-8.1.8

Three points of contact maintained if possible when ANSI Z133-8.1.8

climbing

False crotches are utilized where appropriate ANSI Z133-8.1.9

Climber selects a primary tie in/primary suspension ANSI Z133-8.1.10

point that prevents lateral movement of the climbing line

Climbing line installed from the ground is positioned at a ANSI Z133- 8.1.11
suitable location along main stem/leader/lateral limb

Climber visually inspects the anchor point for condition ANSI Z133-8.1.11
from the ground

Climber preloads the line with approximately twice the ANSI Z133 - 8.1.11
weight of the climber prior to ascending

The tie in location prevents uncontrolled pendulum ANSI Z133-8.1.12

swing

A stopper knot is used when climbing at a height greater ANSI Z133-8.1.13

than Y2 the length of the climbing line

The tie in point on a spar prevents the climbing line from ANSI Z133- 8.1.14
sliding up or down

If no natural limb is on spar or trunk, the climbing line is ANSI 2133-8.1.14

35
choked or runs through a double wrapped adjustable
false crotch

The tie in point selected can withstand work forces ANSI Z133-8.1.14

If a climbing line is damaged, the arborist secures ANSI Z133-8.1.15

themselves with work positioning lanyard and
immediately replaces the climbing line

Ground crew actively engages in rope management ANSI Z133- 8.1.16

Ground crew reports damaged lines or other issues to ANSI Z133- 8.1.16
the climber

Climber checks climbing line beneath the climbing hitch ANSI Z133-8.1.17
for damage while descending

Ropes and Arborist Equipment

Item Yes No Ref

Climbing lines with split-tail system and split-tails are ANSI Z133 - 8.2.1
terminated with an eye splice or a knot that interfaces
appropriately with the connecting link

When utilizing a carabine without a captive eye, the ANSI Z133 - 8.2.1
termination selected maintains loading along the major
axis

Carabiners are connected to limit the possibility of ANSI Z133 - 8.2.1

loading along the minor axis

Saddles and spurs comply with appropriate government ANSI Z133 - 8.2.2
standard (must be marked)

Saddles and work positioning lanyards are not altered ANSI Z133 - 8.2.3
to compromise integrity

Climbing line has minimum diameter of~ inch (7/16 for ANSI Z133 - 8.2.4
lines not subject to regulations that supercede Z133)

Climbing line is made of synthetic fiber ANSI Z133 - 8.2.4

Climbing line has a minimum breaking strength of 5400 ANSI Z133 - 8.2.4
lbs and max working elongation doesn't exceed 7
percent of a 540 lb load

Climbing lines are identified by manufacturer as suitable ANSI Z133 - 8.2.4

for climbing

36
Climbing lines in SRS are compatible with the ANSI Z133 - 8.2.5
components used

Prusiks, split-tails, doubled hitch cords, and work ANSI Z133 - 8.2.6
positioning lanyards have min breaking strength of 5400
lbs

Hitch cords, prusiks and split tails are of abrasion and ANSI Z133 - [Link]
temperature appropriate material for working and
rescue scenarios

Snap hooks are self closing and self locking ANSI Z133 - 8.2.7

Snap hooks have a min tensile strength of 5000 lbs ANSI Z133 - 8.2.7

Carabiners are self closing and self double locking ANSI Z133 - 8.2.7

Carabiner withstands 5000 lbs along major axis without ANSI Z133 - 8.2.8
distorting or opening

Carabiners not linked together unless so designed by ANSI Z133 - 8.2.9

manufacturer

Load rated screw links have tensile strength of 5000 lbs ANSI Z133 - 8.2.10

Screw links are load rated screw links and securely ANSI Z133 - 8.2.10
tightened

Splicing is done IAW manufacturer's specs ANSI Z133 - 8.2.11

Climbing lines are not used for any other purpose other ANSI Z133 - 8.2.12
than raising lightweight tools

Rope ends are finished to prevent unraveling ANSI Z133 - 8.2.13

Ropes and lines are transported to prevent damage ANSI Z133 - 8.2.14
including from fuels and chemicals

Climbing lines are never left in tree unattended ANSI Z133 - 8.2.15

Spurs are appropriate for the tree climbed ANSI Z133 - 8.2.16

Spurs are worn IAW manufacturer's guidelines ANSI Z133 - 8.2.16

Non-working end of any work-positioning lanyard has a ANSI Z133 - 8.2.17

fixed termination, such as fixed stopper knot, eye splice,
snap, carabiner or other hardware to prevent slipping
through friction device or securely connected to a rated
connection point on the climbing saddle

37
Pruning and Trimming
Item Yes No Ref

Pruning is conducted IAW ANSI A300 ANSI Z133 - 8.3.1

A drop zone is established ANSI Z133 - 8.3.2

A safe work plan developed to manage the drop zone ANSI Z133 - 8.3.2

Commands "stand clear" and "all clear" or similar ANSI Z133 - 8.3.2
(including hand signals) are used

Hand signals, if used, are predetermined ANSI Z133 - 8.3.2

Arborists or other workers returning to drop zone are ANSI Z133 - 8.3.2
acknowledged by arborist aloft

Pole tools hung are securely positioned to prevent ANSI Z133 - 8.3.3
dislodging

Pole tools are not hung on electrical conductors ANSI Z133 - 8.3.3

Pole tools are not left unattended in a tree ANSI Z133 - 8.3.3

Pole tools are positioned so sharp age is away from ANSI Z133 - 8.3.3
arborist

Pole tools are removed when the arborist leaves the ANSI Z133 - 8.3.3
tree

Scabbards and sheaths are used on hand saws ANSI Z133 - 8.3.4

Pole tools used in proximity to energized conductors are ANSI Z133 - 8.3.5
constructed with fiberglass reinforced plastic or wood
meeting requirements of OSHA 1910.269

Limbs that cannot be controlled by hand or free dropped ANSI Z133 - 8.3.6
are rigged

Review Tree Climbing Rigging Checklist if performing ANSI Z133 - 8.3.6

rigging

No smoking in dry conditions or near dead palm fronds ANSI Z133 - 8.3.7

During dry conditions and around dry palm fronds, ANSI Z133 - 8.3.7
chainsaws are equipped with a muffler and spark
arrestor

Mufflers and spark arrestors are in good working order ANSI Z133 - 8.3.7

38
Palm frond skirts are removed from top down ANSI Z133 - 8.3.8

When possible, the arborist is positioned above the skirt ANSI Z133 - 8.3.8
when removing palm fronds

The arborist is not below the frond skirt or between the ANSI Z133 - 8.3.8
skirt and the trunk of the tree

Cut branches, tools and equipment are removed from ANSI Z133 - 8.3.9
the tree upon completion of work

Cabling
Item Yes No Ref

Cabling conducted IAW ANSI A300 ANSI Z133 - 8.4.1

Drop zone is clear when cabling is installed ANSI Z133 - 8.4.2

Cabling tools are carried in bag, placed in a belt ANSI Z133 - 8.4.3
designed to hold the tools, or secured to a tool lanyard

When installing or replacing a support system, the load ANSI Z133 - 8.4.4
is released onto the new system in a slow and
controlled manner

Old support systems are not removed until new system ANSI Z133 - 8.4.5
or temporary system is installed

Rigging
Item Yes No Ref

Tree inspected for integrity and physical defects ANSI Z133 - 8.5.1

Defects and integrity considered in rigging plan ANSI Z133 - 8.5.1

If a risk of failure exists, an alternate plan is considered ANSI Z133 - 8.5.1

Rigging points assessed for structural integrity by a ANSI Z133 - 8.5.2

qualified arborist

All factors are considered before a rigging plan is ANSI Z133 - 8.5.2
chosen

Rigging arborists are trained to estimate the potential ANSI Z133 - 8.5.3

39
forces and their effects at all points of the rigging
system

System components chosen take into consideration the ANSI Z133 - 8.5.3
maximum POTENTIAL forces

Consideration is given to additional and potential forces ANSI Z133 - 8.5.4

caused by the rigging itself

Manufacturer's load limits are identified for all ANSI Z133 - 8.5.5
equipment

Rigging equipment is chosen specific to the job and ANSI Z133 - 8.5.5
based on working load limits and design specs of the
equipement

Carabiners are loaded along major and not minor axis ANSI Z133 - 8.5.5

The number of connecting links is minimized ANSI Z133 - 8.5.6

Connecting links are inspected to interface properly ANSI Z133 - 8.5.6

Connecting links are in compliance with manufacturer's ANSI Z133 - 8.5.6

recommendations

Equipment is in good condition and inspected ANSI Z133 - 8.5.7

immediately prior to use

Equipment in poor condition is removed from service ANSI Z133 - 8.5.7

Equipment is clearly marked with intended purpose if ANSI Z133 - 8.5.8

potential for confusion with other equipment/uses exists

When establishing a horizontally distant rigging point, ANSI Z133 - 8.5.9

additional support is considered

If backstay is used to support a horizontally distant ANSI Z133 - 8.5.9

rigging point, it's positioned higher on main trunk than
the original rigging point

When supporting a horizontally distant rigging point, the ANSI Z133 - 8.5.9
installation of a separate rigging system (that uses
supporting members other than those in use) is also
considered

Workers aloft (climbing or aerial device) establish ANSI Z133 - 8.5.10

comms with workers on the ground

Comms plan includes call and response system ANSI Z133 - 8.5.11

Comms plan clearly understood by all workers ANSI Z133 - 8.5.11

40
Comms plan adhered to by all workers ANSI Z133 - 8.5.11

Drop Zone established prior to start of rigging ANSI Z133 - 8.5.12

operations

All workers stay out of drop zone until it's determined by ANSI Z133 - 8.5.12
a qualified arborist that it's safe to enter

Only qualified arborists or trainees directly involved in ANSI Z133 - 8.5.13

the operation are permitted in the drop zone when a
load is being suspended by the rigging system

Taglines are used when necessary ANSI Z133 - 8.5.14

Ground workers that are handling rigging lines are not ANSI Z133 - 8.5.15
underneath a moving or suspended load

Ground workers that are handling rigging lines are out ANSI Z133 - 8.5.15
of drop zone if practical

Workers aloft are positioned above or to the side of the ANSI Z133 - 8.5.16
piece being rigged

Workers aloft are positioned out of path of movement of ANSI Z133 - 8.5.16
the piece being rigged

Workers aloft have a retreat path established ANSI Z133 - 8.5.16

When making a release cut, climbers and rigging ANSI Z133 - 8.5.17
systems don't make contact with the moving or swinging
parts of the rigging system

The rigging system doesn't compromise any part of the ANSI Z133 - 8.5.17
climbing system

Steps are taken to prevent spars from splitting or tearing ANSI Z133 - 8.5.18

The splitting and tearing of spars should be considered ANSI Z133 - 8.5.18
when determining work positioning

The worker has hand a saw for finishing cuts ANSI Z133 - 8.5.19

Tree Removal
Item Yes No Ref

The chainsaw operator and crew leader considered all ANSI Z133 - 8.6.1
relevant factors pertaining to tree removal

41
The crew leader assessed the number of workers ANSI Z133 - 8.6.2
needed

The crew leader communicates work plan and assigns ANSI Z133 - 8.6.2
job tasks in a job briefing

A method of verbal, audible or visual comms is ANSI Z133 - 8.6.2

established

A drop zone is established ANSI Z133 - 8.6.3

Workers stay out of drop zone until it's communicated ANSI Z133 - 8.6.3
safe by an individual directly involved in the removal
operation that it's safe to enter

In manual tree felling, non-involved workers are ANSI Z133 - 8.6.4

positioned 2x the height of the tree or trunk (work zone)

In manual tree felling operations, only the chainsaw ANSI Z133 - 8.6.4
operator or crew leader can communicate it's safe for
non-involved workers to enter work zone/drop zone

In manual tree felling operations, workers directly ANSI Z133 - 8.6.4

involved are positioned 1.5x the height of the tree away
(drop zone)

Planned retreat/escape path is determined and ANSI Z133 - 8.6.5

communicated to all workers

RetreaUescape path is 45 degrees to a line drawn back ANSI Z133 - [Link]

from intended path of fall

Retreat path is cleared of obstructions (to extent ANSI Z133 - [Link]

possible)

Chainsaw Operator follows the retreat path once the ANSI Z133 - [Link]
cuts are complete

Planned retreat paths do not hinder other planned ANSI Z133 - [Link]
retreat paths

Qualified Arborist asses the tree's ability to withstand ANSI Z133 - 8.6.6
lowering forces

Alternate removal methods are considered ANSI Z133 - 8.6.6

Directional felling rope is used on trees and stems ANSI Z133 - 8.6.7
greater than 5" dbh where required

Directional ropes or other mechanical devices are used ANSI Z133 - 8.6.8
where there is a risk for damage to property

42
All workers are outside the drop zone if using a vehicle ANSI Z133 - [Link]
or equipment to push over a tree during manual felling

Equipment used to push over a tree is of appropriate ANSI Z133 - [Link]

size

Equipment used to push over a tree provides protection ANSI Z133 - [Link]
for operator

Wedges are used to prevent binding of bar and chain ANSI Z133 - 8.6.9

Wedges are used to aid direction of fall if necessary ANSI Z133 - 8.6.9

All equipment is in good working order ANSI Z133 - 8.6.10

Equipment and connecting links are inspected ANSI Z133 - 8.6.10

immediately before use

Equipment and connecting links are removed from ANSI Z133 - 8.6.10
service if defective

Limbs are removed prior to felling if necessary ANSI Z133 - 8.6.11

A notch is used in all trees greater than 5 inches ANSI Z133 - 8.6.12

Notches and back cuts are made at a height that ANSI Z133 - 8.6.13
enables stability and retreat for the sawyer

The two cuts that form the notch meet at an apex ANSI Z133 - [Link]

The notch used is an open face, conventional, or ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Humboldt notch

Notches are 45 degrees or greater and wide enough to ANSI Z133 - [Link]
guide the fall of the tree or trunk

Notch depth doesn't exceed ~the diameter of the tree ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Sufficient hinge wood is left to control the fall ANSI Z133 - [Link]

Open face notches greater than 70 degrees have a ANSI Z133 - [Link]
back cut at the same level as the apex

With a conventional notch or humboldt notch, the back ANSI Z133 - [Link]
cut is 1-2 inches above the apex (reduces kickback
potential of trunk)

Barber chair hazards considered when cutting trees ANSI Z133 - 8.6.14
under tension

Steps are taken to prevent the sudden splitting of trunk ANSI Z133 - 8.6.14

43
wood:
• Back cut methods
• Ratchet strap, rope, chain
• Relieving tension by slackening pull ropes
• Removing upper parts prior to felling

Command and response is used before beginning a ANSI Z133 - 8.6.15

back cut

If hand signals or audible devices are used to ANSI Z133 - 8.6.15

communicate they are pre-determined

Only designated persons give signals ANSI Z133 - 8.6.15

During manual tree felling operations, workers involved ANSI Z133 - 8.6.16
keep a visual contact with the tree or trunk until it's on
the ground (except the feller)

The feller retreats along the escape path ANSI Z133 - 8.6.16

Workers stay outside specified distances during ANSI Z133 - 8.6.17

mechanical operations (rotary, flail mower, boom
mounted saws etc)

Brush Removal and Chipping

Item Yes No Ref

Pedestrian and traffic control is established ANSI Z133 - 8.7.1

Brush and log placement doesn't create hazards in the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.2
worksite

Loose fitting clothing or items that could create an ANSI Z133 - 8.7.3
entanglement problem are not worn

PPE is worn ANSI Z133 - 8.7.4

Throwlines, climbing, and rigging lines are clear of the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.5
chipping area

Operators are properly trained in inspection, starting, ANSI Z133 - 8.7.6

stopping, feeding and shutdown if the chipper

Only authorized personnel conduct maintenance on the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.7

chipper

Hands, feet, or other body parts don't pass beyond the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.8
plane of infeed hopper when operating

44
Feet not used to push brush and wood ANSI Z133 - 8.7.8

Brush is fed from the side of the feed table center line ANSI Z133 - 8.7.9

Brush and logs are fed butt or cut end first ANSI Z133 - 8.7.9

Operator immediately faces away when wood is ANSI Z133 - 8.7.9

engaged by rotor/feed roller

During roadside operations, operator stands on the curb ANSI Z133 - 8.7.10
or shoulder (when practical)

The chipper is fitted with a discharge chute ANSI Z133 - 8.7.11

Discharge chute is closed when any part of chipper is ANSI Z133 - 8.7.11
turning or moving

Stones, nails, or sweepings are not fed into chipper ANSI Z133 - 8.7.12

Limbs, logs, brush, and other woody material is ANSI Z133 - 8.7.13
cut/prepared prior to feeding into the chipper

Small vegetation is fed with a pusher ANSI Z133 - 8.7.14

The pusher is non-metallic ANSI Z133 - 8.7.14

The operator is aware of all pinch hazards ANSI Z133- 8.7.15

The winch line doesn't pass beyond the plane of the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.16
infeed hopper

The winch is stowed when material is controlled by the ANSI Z133 - 8.7.16
feeder wheels

LOTO procedures are followed if the chipper becomes ANSI Z133 - 8.7.17
clogged

If MAD is violated and chipper is attached to the aerial ANSI Z133 - 8.7.18
device, the operator moves away until MAD is
reestablished

Review Chipper Checklist (ANSI Z133 5.3) ANSI Z133 - 8.7.19

Specialized equipment doesn't create a hazard for ANSI Z133 - 8.7.20

workers chipping

Limbing and Bucking

I
item

45
Job briefing is conducted ANSI Z133 - 8.8.1

When more than one worker is present, they don't ANSI Z133 - 8.8.2
create a hazard for each other

Only one worker is cutting a single tree or single tree ANSI Z133 - 8.8.2
part

Precautions are taken with wind thrown trees to prevent ANSI Z133 - 8.8.3
the root ball or butt log from striking a worker

Chain saws are operated away from legs and feet ANSI Z133 - 8.8.4

Natural barriers, such as limbs and logs, are used ANSI Z133 - 8.8.4
whenever possible to protect legs and feet

Work is conducted from the uphill side whenever ANSI Z133 - 8.8.4
possible

Sawyer has a firm footing ANSI Z133 - 8.8.5

No standing on loose debris or logs that may roll when ANSI Z133 - 8.8.5
cutting

All wood under tension, including saplings, is ANSI Z133 - 8.8.6

considered hazardous

Appropriate cutting techniques are used ANSI Z133 - 8.8.6

Appropriate precautions are taken ANSI Z133 - 8.8.6

Logs are blocked to prevent rolling when necessary ANSI Z133 - 8.8.7

Wedges are used to prevent binding of bar and chain ANSI Z133 - 8.8.8

Cant hooks or peaveys are used to aid in rolling large or ANSI Z133 - 8.8.9
irregular logs

If mechanized equipment is used, the equipment ANSI Z133 - 8.8.10

operator establishes an effective means of
communication

Workers don't approach mechanized equipment ANSI Z133 - 8.8.11

operations until the equipment operator acknowledges
that it is safe to do so

Pesticide Application
I
item I I I
Yes No Ref

46
Applicators have a current license ANSI Z133 - 8.9.1

Applicators are current in knowledge ANSI Z133 - 8.9.2

Label instructions are followed ANSI Z133 - 8.9.3

PPE is properly fitted, cleaned, maintained, and stored ANSI Z133 - 8.9.4

PPE is used as specified on label ANSI Z133 - 8.9.4

PPE is not stored with pesticides ANSI Z133 - 8.9.5

Workers have Hazcom Training ANSI Z133 - 8.9.6

SDSs are periodically reviewed ANSI Z133 - 8.9.7

SDSs are readily available on the worksite ANSI Z133 - 8.9.7

Applicator follows the pesticide label instructions with ANSI Z133 - 8.9 ..8
regard to laundering clothing

Applicator has a shower or bath at end of each day ANSI Z133 - 8.9.9

A clean water source is provided at the worksite for ANSI Z133 - 8.9.10
emergency decontamination

Precautions are taken to prevent contamination of the ANSI Z133 - 8.9.10

clean water source

Drinking water and decontamination water is kept in ANSI Z133 - 8.9.10

separate containers and labeled

Applicator does not direct a solid spray column into ANSI Z133 - 8.9.11
contact with electrical conductors

Pesticides are stored in original container or a clearly ANSI Z133 - 8.1.12

marked service container

Pesticides are stored in locked compartments ANSI Z133 - 8.9.13

Pesticide storage areas meet or exceed all laws and ANSI Z133 - 8.9.14
regulations

Emergency action plan, including spill response ANSI Z133 - 8.9.15

materials and procedures and is available where
pesticides are stored, transported or handled

Mixing Pesticides

Pesticides are mixed in an area that is outdoors or in a ANSI Z133- 8.10.1

well ventilated, illuminated enclosed area

47
Devices used for mixing and measuring pesticides are ANSI Z133 - 8.10.1
specifically designed and marked for pesticide use

Devices used for mixing and measuring pesticides are ANSI Z133 - 8.10.1
not used for anything else

High-Pressure Air-Excavation Equipment

Item Yes No Ref

PPE is required for the operator and crew ANSI 2133-8.11.1

PPE includes hard hat with face shield, hearing ANSI Z133- 8.11.1
protection, eye protection and gloves

Long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and/or coveralls worn ANSI Z133- 8.11.1

Respiratory protection is worn when conditions warrant ANSI Z133 - 8.11.2

When used, respiratory protection is IAW OSHA ANSI Z133- 8.11.2

1910.134

The worksite is identified ANSI Z133- 8.11.3

Attempts are made to keep non-involved individuals ANSI Z133-8.11.3

clear of the worksite

Compressor operator understands and follows all ANSI Z133 - 8.11.4

operating instructions for the compressor

The air hose is properly attached and secured to the ANSI Z133-8.11.5
compressor prior to starting the compressor

Body parts are not placed in front of air jets ANSI Z133 - 8.11.6

The airline is depressurized prior to uncoupling the air ANSI Z133 - 8.11.7
hose when operator is finished.

Fertilization/Soil Management
Item Yes No Ref

Fertilization is conducted in accordance with ANSI A300 ANSI Z133 - 8.12.1

All products used are in accordance with manufacturer's ANSI Z133 - 8.12.2
safety recommendations

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Fertilizers are stored away from ignition sources and ANSI Z133 - 8.12.3
separate from petroleum products and pesticides

Smoking is prohibited in fertilizer storage areas ANSI Z133 - 8.12.4

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