Chainsaws are a powerful and time-saving tool that arborists use on a daily basis. Early versions of this commonplace tool were so large they needed wheels and took two people to operate! Fortunately, today, they’re much more practical and portable. However, they’re also dangerous. According to the University of Texas, 36,000 people are injured by chainsaws...

There are various scenarios in which you might use a hydraulic dump body in the course of tree maintenance work. A dump truck can contain a large amount of debris after trimming trees or removing storm debris, and haul it safely to a dump site.  A hydraulic dump truck uses a liquid-filled hoist systems to lift the bed of the truck--the dump body--to empty it...

As a Townsend employee, you know to take proper safety precautions prior to beginning work. One of the most important ways you can stay safe is to wear the right PPE for the job – especially when it comes to your head, eyes and face.No matter your job duty for the day, you’re required to wear the proper head protection. Tree work can be dangerous, so wearing...

The term “rigging” in tree work refers to the practice of dismantling trees using ropes, pulleys and blocks. This is one of the most common ways our tree workers take care of overgrown limbs and manage tree growth. Rigging presents special hazards, including the risk of struck-by’s and tree failure, so proper precautions should be taken to avoid...

When we talk about tree worker safety, most people think about staying safe around chippers or how to avoid falling when ascending a tree. However, keeping your hearing safe while doing tree work is equally important. Hearing loss from tree work is entirely preventable using the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Every time you expose yourself to loud noises...

A big part of staying safe while doing tree work is using the proper climbing techniques. Remember these climbing tips to avoid injuries next time you’re on the job.Before any tree work begins, a visual hazard assessment should be conducted. This includes an inspection of the tree’s root collar inspection for signs of decay. Having a second tree worker...

Fires can start in a variety of ways while on the job, so it’s important to know what risks are present and how to use a fire extinguisher if the need arises. The consequences of a fire on the job include injury, brush fires and more.How to Prevent FiresWhen on the job, all smoking is prohibited when handling or working around flammable liquids. All flammable...

When performing tree work, there are a variety of hidden dangers to be aware of on the job including poisonous plants and biting and stinging insects or animals. Identification of nature’s hazards are important, but there are steps you can take to stay safe against these threats.Poisonous PlantsComing into contact with poisonous plants and their oils can cause...

Proper chainsaw use can be the difference between life and death when performing tree work. The process of trimming or limbing a standing tree or limbing and bucking a felled tree usually requires the use of a chainsaw to get the job done efficiently. Workers need to have a thorough knowledge and proper training before being allowed to use a chainsaw. Continue reading...

Electrical hazards are by far the most dangerous aspect associated with tree work, and lead to the largest number of injuries. The human body is an effective conductor of electricity and poses little resistance when shocked, so the rules regarding these hazards need to be carefully followed. Continue reading to learn ways to stay safe around electrical hazards. #1: All...