Job Briefings

Prior to beginning any task, a documented and qualified job briefing shall be held. This discussion shall cover the appropriate "keys to life" which are applicable to the job at hand, along with identification of all hazards or potential hazards that may exist for the particular job.  Anytime there is a significant job function change, a new job briefing shall be held.
 

Fall Protection 

When exposed to fall hazards greater than four feet, appropriate fall protection shall be used. When utilizing a chain saw aloft, climber shall use a second point of attachment/securement such as a work positioning lanyard or double crotched rope.
 

Minimum Approach Distances

Qualified line-clearance arborists and trainees shall use 2’5” as the minimum approach distance for energized lines or equipment with voltages from 1.1 - 15.0 KV Phase to Phase. For voltages from 15.1 - 36 KV Phase to Phase, the minimum approach distance is 3’0”. All other workers shall remain a minimum of 10’ from energized conductors. Tree workers and bucket operators shall avoid all indirect line contacts with all conductive objects.
 

Drop Hazards

In cases where limbs and wood are being roped out of a tree, all ground personnel shall be at a safe distance from the drop hazard zone. When limbs and wood are being dropped from a tree, the climber will look to ensure all ground personnel are at a safe distance and will also verbally alert all personnel that limbs or wood are about to be dropped.
 

Grounding Lines

Before any tree work is started, appropriate grounding shall be done on any conductors lying on the ground and in situations where trees cannot be cleared from overhead conductors safely. A conductor is only considered de-energized after it is properly grounded.