on chain saw use, it provides a good basic starting point for initial chain
saw work practices. Fairly specific guidelines include a prohibition on
"drop-starting," the use of two tie-in points (TIPs) when operating a saw
aloft, and proper hand placement (both hands on the saw) during chain
saw use.
• Climbing: Although the Z133 doesn't necessarily deal directly
with specific climbing techniques or methods, it does contain some
excellent information on strength requirements, along with specific
guidelines for certain climbing situations. Some examples of these are
inspections of climbing equipment and lines before each use, termination guidelines for connecting links in split-tail systems, and snap
hook use.
• Rigging:The rigging section of the Z133 emphasizes the importance of understanding load ratings and the use of working load limits,
along with requiring some form of communication system to make the
rigging operation not only safer, but more efficient.
• Tree removal:The Z133 does speak in this section to the need
to keep non-involved workers out of the possible impact zone, two
times the height of the tree, but also provides guidelines on exceptions that may arise due to work site requirements or hazards. In
addition, the standard speaks to some of the basic requirements of
felling notches; and requires their use in any wood greater than 5
inches in diameter.
• Brush removal/chipping:This section not only addresses personal
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protective equipment needs while chipping, but also speaks to the dangers of chipping while wearing entanglement hazards such as gauntlet-style
gloves, climbing harnesses and lanyards. In addition, the section contains
some excellent guidance on body and brush positioning during chipping operations.
The Z133 cannot, of course, provide safety guidelines for each and
every tree care situation, nor should it, as the best resource for safety
is each individual tree crew member taking responsibility for themselves and those around them. But it does provide an excellent basic
introduction to the safety requirements that the tree care industry has
designed and developed for itself. As an introduction, implementation into work culture and practice of the Z133 by tree companies
and crews will increase safety, but progression beyond that requires a
commitment to safety and efficiency that goes beyond the fear of
fines or discipline; and springs from the inner spirit of tree workers
and managers who wish to make their workplace a safer, more professional environment.
Michael "House"Tain is a contract climber,splicer,educator and writer associated with
North AmericanTraining Solutions www.northamericantrainingsolutions.com
and Arbor Canada Training and Education www.arborcanada.com. He is
currently located in Lancaster, Ky., and can be reached via e-mail at
house@houseoftain.com.
Arbor Age / October 2013
13
