20 WINTER 2015 ARBOR AGE www.arborage.com
TRAINING & EDUCATION
or need regarding crew skills and work habits should be part of
the offseason purchasing formula.
DATA, DATA, DATA
Information and, even
more importantly, existing
user feedback are key in
offseason gear evaluation
and selection. Luckily, in this
day and age of the Internet
and the wide variety of
social media platforms,
there is no shortage of data and/or opinions available on gear
and equipment; however, evaluators should remember that
not all data is created equally, and sources should always be
considered. In addition, more and more valuable and verifiable
research is being done on tree industry gear and equipment in
real-world application, and then shared with the tree-climbing
industry at large. This data can not only make offseason gear
evaluation and purchases easier, but can even steer companies
or crew members to more specific choices, such as which rope
or hitch should function best in very particular circumstances.
NO MONEY DOWN UNTIL YOU'VE DRIVEN IT AROUND
The option to give that new piece of gear or equipment a
try, regardless of how briefly, prior to swiping the company
credit card may not always be an option, but, if available,
should always be taken advantage of. There is no substitute
for the "hands-on" experience
of running some brush through
a chipper prior to purchase,
or knowing how the latest,
greatest harness feels on one's
hips when suspended. If
possible, use any opportunities
that a retailer or manufacturer
presents for demonstrations or
"try-outs." If that's not available,
take advantage of any chance to attend an industry conference,
trade show, convention, event or competition. Not only will
these tree industry gatherings allow prospective purchasers to
network and gather information/opinions from existing gear
and equipment users, but they are also guaranteed to provide
plenty of chances to see, touch and even try out all the new
bright and shiny toys.
THE BOTTOM LINE IS STILL THE BOTTOM LINE
Often the final limiting factor on offseason gear and equipment
purchases is the cost; and for any tree company that wants to
stay in business, this should be a very important factor or
consideration. However, while the numbers and price tags for
tree gear and equipment can be intimidating at first glance,
"
Regular inspection, care and
maintenance should be part and parcel
of every tree care company's routine,
regardless of season.
"
PPE should also be cleaned and inspected in the offseason.
PHOTO
BY
THOR
CLAUSEN
