8 Arbor Age / January/February 2014 www.arborage.com
TRAINING & EDUCATION
TRAINING & EDUCATION
B y M i c h a e l " H o u s e " T a i n
The tree care industry is an innovative one; and never more so
than when the "working folks" get involved in design and develop-
ment. Rare is the tree crew where the branch managers and climbers
aren't suggesting a "better" way to do things on a daily basis, often
in quite strident terms. Although some of these "suggestions" may
be best left in the truck with the empty coffee cups and Skoal cans
on the fl oor, many have the potential to make tree work easier, safer
and more effi cient. Fortunately, industry manufacturers and retailers
seem to be recognizing the value of ideas "from the fi eld" in recent
years; and the result has been several innovative products available
to everyday climbing arborists that certainly can make for easier
and safer days aloft. Some of these innovations have been taken all
the way to market by the tree people themselves, while others have
involved existing manufacturers working with the developing tree
folk to make the product available. Both are certainly viable options
with their own individual advantages and disadvantages, but the
end-user needs to consider a few things prior to putting the new
innovative piece of gear to the test. A discussion of the lens through
which to view new products, along with a description of just a
few of the new "toys" will be helpful to tree crews making choices
about innovation, and help ensure that the new tools chosen do
indeed make the job easier, safer and more effi cient.
Is it legal?
A tool or piece of gear that is purchased from any reputable
manufacturer or retailer will state clearly what applicable standards
the tool meets; and often give information on what uses the tool
is not intended for. This is important information for end users,
particularly if they do not wish to meet their end while using the
new gizmo. All professional tree care personnel should be aware of,
New toys for a new year
Photo by WesSpur
The Hitch Hiker installed on a single line with an appropriate friction hitch.
Innovations
CLIMBING
ARBORISTS
for
