requirements for climbing trees

When climbing trees as part of arboriculture activities, several safety requirements must be followed [1].

Safe Work Practices:

• Hazard Assessment: Employers must assess hazards at the work site [1].
• Worker Training: Workers need training in hazard recognition [1], and employers must ensure employees are trained by a qualified person [2].
• Equipment and PPE: Proper selection, operation, and maintenance of equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential [1]. Inspect climbing equipment before each day's use [3].
• Fall Protection: Use work positioning systems and fall protection systems [1]. A positioning system or a personal fall arrest system shall be provided and the employer shall ensure their use when work is performed at positions more than 4 feet (1.2 m) above the ground [3].
• Emergency Rescue: Employers must have emergency rescue procedures in place [1].

Harness Standards:

• Harnesses manufactured after March 31, 2023, must meet specific standards such as NFPA 1983, CEN EN 813, CSA Z259.10-18, ANSI/ASSE Z359.1-2007, or CEN EN 361 [1].

Climbing Techniques:

• Tying In: Tree workers must be tied in with an approved climbing rope and safety saddle when working above 4 feet [4].
• Inspecting Limbs: Inspect limbs before applying weight and avoid trusting dead branches [4].
• Rope Placement: Pass the climbing rope around the trunk as high as possible, using branches with a wide crotch to prevent binding [4].
• Electrical Hazards: Note the location of electrical conductors and climb on the side of the tree away from them if possible [4].
• Securing the Rope: Use a figure-eight knot in the end of the rope and ensure the climbing line is crotched and checked [4].
• Complete Security: Be completely secured with the climbing line before starting operations [4].

Equipment Inspection:

• Body Belts: Inspect for cracks, corrosion, loose rivets, and worn materials [5].
• Positioning Straps: Check for exposed warning centers, cuts, burns, fraying, and secure rivets [5].
• Climbers: Ensure gaffs meet minimum length requirements, are not fractured or loose, and are properly sharpened [5].

Ladder Use:

• When using portable ladders to climb trees, the ladder shall be tied to the tree or supported by another worker [6].
• Ladders, platforms, and aerial devices, including insulated aerial devices, shall not be placed in a position where they could contact an electrical conductor [6].
• Metal ladders used where no electrical hazard exists shall conform to ANSI A14.2-1982, Safety Requirements for Portable Metal Ladders [6].
• All ladders shall be inspected daily before use. Unsafe ladders shall not be used [6].

Rope Requirements:

• Climbing ropes shall be used when working aloft in trees [7].
• Climbing ropes shall have a minimum diameter of 1/2-inch and be a 3- or 4-strand firstgrade manila with a nominal breaking strength of 2385 pounds or its equivalent in strength and durability [7].
• Synthetic rope shall have a maximum elasticity of not more than 7 percent [7].
• Rope made unsafe by damage or defect, or for any other reason, shall not be used [7].

Additional Considerations:

• Electrical Hazards: Maintain a 10-foot clearance from power lines or notify the power company [8].
• Personal Protective Equipment: Use appropriate PPE, including safety belts or tree-trimming saddle belts, and leg protection when using chain saws [8].
• Tool Safety: Use the correct tool for the job and avoid carrying tools in your hands while climbing [9].
• Communication: During tree working operations aloft, ensure there is a second worker in the vicinity [10].

By adhering to these guidelines, employers and workers can significantly reduce the risks associated with tree climbing activities.