EQUIPMENT SAFETY

• Review safe operating procedures before using chippers, chain saws, or stump grinders.

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when operating chippers or chain saws. PPE includes gloves, goggles, face shields, chaps, hard hats and hearing protection.

• Hard hats designed for tree trimming crews may include an attached face shield and ear muffs.

• Keep shirt sleeves rolled down and apply barrier creams to reduce exposure to poison ivy and oak.

VEHICLE AND WORKSITE POSITIONING

• Park vehicles and equipment in areas that allow safe entry and exit.

• Ensure no hazards block workers relaying materials to trucks or chippers.

• Maintain enough space for employees to work safely.

• Injuries have occurred from falling branches, tree trunks, and tools—maintaining clear space can prevent accidents.

COMMUNICATION AND TEAMWORK

• Always warn coworkers before cutting a large branch or tree trunk.

• Two-person teams are recommended when felling trees. Determine the tree’s lean, wind direction, and proximity to other trees, buildings, fences, and wires. Establish a safe retreat path before starting the cut.

• One person cuts while the other observes for movement and warns if the tree begins to rock.

• Use a pull rope when possible to minimize reliance on wedges, allowing the saw to be removed quickly if needed.

CUTTING PROCEDURES

• Leave enough wood on the felling cut to hinge the tree in the intended fall direction.

• If the tree may fall the wrong way or bind the saw, stop and use a wedge to guide the tree.

HAND SAW SAFETY

• Ensure hand saws are sharp to prevent grabbing or binding.

• Hold the saw at a right angle to the work surface and keep the piece firmly in place.

• Keep fingers clear and use slow, controlled strokes. The saw cuts on the forward stroke only.

• Light oil on both sides of the saw can make cutting easier.

PRUNER SAFETY

• Keep tree pruners sharp.

• Only cut branches about 1 inch in diameter or smaller. Cutting larger branches may damage the tool or strain your muscles.

• Ensure a firm footing and avoid awkward positions while pruning.

CHIPPER SAFETY

• Feed brush and limbs into the chipper butt end first.

• Step away from the machine after the material starts feeding to avoid injuries from whipping branches.

• Never force materials or hand-feed small pieces; use another limb to push them in if necessary.

• Wear gloves with tight-fitting cuffs, such as mechanics gloves. Avoid gauntlet-style gloves, which can catch and pull you toward the chipper.