26 OCTOBER 2014 ARBOR AGE www.arborage.com
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
BY SARA SANKOWICH
The fall season is prime time for vegetation management
line-clearance companies to bid on utility projects. Many tree
companies inquire about bids and about getting onto a utility's
"storm list" for the winter season. Contract companies should be
aware that utilities consider several factors — such as insurance,
whether workers are line-clearance qualifi ed, and each company's
community relationships — when evaluating contract bids or
seeking vendors for storm emergencies. Utilities, through careful
planning and open communication, also can take steps to form
positive relationships with vendors and improve outcomes during
utility projects and restoration work.
MEETING BASIC REQUIREMENTS
If yours is a tree care company, you can enhance your chances of
entering a competitive bid on a utility contract by fi rst ensuring you
meet criteria in two major areas: insurance and qualifi ed workers.
Utility insurance requirements for contractors will vary from state
to state, but required coverage is often greater than what you may
normally carry for non-line-clearance work — especially if yours
is a small business. Line-clearance companies can start evaluating
these requirements, and determining whether they can meet
them, by gathering all the facts and asking questions. The utility's
procurement and/or legal department can advise you of the best
way to qualify or reach coverage levels.
Contract vendors will also need to employ qualifi ed line-
clearance arborists. To have a "qualifi ed crew," you must meet the
requirement of Occupational Health and Safety Administration
(OSHA) 1910.269, which includes having at least one qualifi ed
line-clearance arborist on site who, among other requirements, is
able to identify the electric line, how much voltage it conducts, and
the appropriate minimum approach distance for work. A second
line-clearance tree worker must be within voice distance when the
Entering a
Competitive Bid
ALL
PHOTOS
PROVIDED
BY
UNITIL
How utility companies select vegetation management line-clearance companies
