What are the Hazards?

Hazards include chain saws, sharp-edged tools, poisonous plants and insects, thorns, large clumps of brush, slips, trips and falls on uneven ground, overcrowding of workers, moving equipment, utility lines, falling or suspended branches, noise exposure, and flying debris.

Safe Work Practices

• Review the safe operating procedures for equipment to be used on the job and perform pre-operational checks. Make sure chain saws have functional chain brakes and safety equipment, and that chippers have proper guards and emergency feed controls.

• Determine the type of traffic control setup and assign personnel specific duties.

• Park in areas that provide safe entrance to and exit from the work area. Don’t create potential conflicts with other vehicles and equipment operating in the work area. Provide maximum protection for workers getting in and out of vehicles.

• Hearing and eye protection are required when using chain saws or chippers, as noise and flying debris often meet or exceed OSHA exposure limits. The use of chaps is required when operating a chain saw. Hard hats, gloves and appropriate footwear (cut-resistant or high-top boots) must be worn when required by the hazards present.

• Cut and stack limbs and brush in manageable pieces that are easy to handle to avoid back injuries. Use equipment to move logs and large pieces of cut material.

• Be aware of poisonous plants and insects. It is good practice to wear long-sleeved shirts, gloves and high-top boots when hazards can’t be avoided.

• Allow ample space for everyone to work safely. Don’t bunch up. Stay clear of chain saws unless you’re the operator or helper.

• Employees on foot must use extreme caution to stay clear of operating equipment. Always establish eye contact with the operator before approaching equipment. Chain saw and chipper operators must be trained to do the job.

• Use caution when handling tools with sharp edges. Gloves are required when sharpening tools.

• Be aware of loose materials, tripping hazards, uneven ground, slippery surfaces and areas where equipment is operating.

• Don’t cut limbs or trees that may contact overhead utility lines. Stay clear of all overhead utilities. Only qualified line-clearance arborists may work within required OSHA minimum approach distances of energized lines. Treat all lines as energized unless verified otherwise by the utility.

• Tree trimming that requires climbing must be performed only by a trained employee or with the use of a bucket truck. When climbing or using aerial lifts, fall protection must be used as required.

• Use extreme care when cutting trees and brush that are under stress or additional loads, such as after an ice storm.