What Should You Know About Safety When Tree Trimming?

Trimming and shaping a tree without cutting it to the ground requires a unique set of skills, including climbing and trimming. It frequently uses portable power instruments like chainsaws and trimmers. When trying to reach higher branches, one risks falling or being electrocuted if one comes into contact with overhead electricity lines. Falls from heights and electricity are the two most common ways people die when pruning trees. 

It is important to check and service your tools and machinery routinely. Establish escape routes in advance, just in case. Keep a tight eye on employees and ensure they receive adequate training. It’s important to do a pre-start safety check.

When trimming, always use the appropriate equipment. Injuries and accidents can be avoided by following these safety measures during tree cutting. Pruning trees presents risks if it is not done safely. The most prevalent causes of injury in tree maintenance are falling from heights, being struck by trees, and being electrocuted.

The steps you should take to ensure your safety while cutting trees are detailed in this blog. You can avoid injury while trimming trees if you take all the necessary precautions, such as wearing protective gear, checking all tools before use, and plotting out escape routes.

What Does Tree Trimming And Removal Work?

Lopping, removing, repairing, and preserving amenity trees are all part of the job description for a tree service. Related ground operations include root trimming, wood chipping, and stump grinding. 

Simply put, “amenity trees” serve various purposes, whether social, ecological, healthful, aesthetically pleasing, or simply practical. They aren’t put to any productive or agricultural use. 

Tools And Safety Gear For Tree Trimming

The tree-cutting instruments you use serve a dual purpose. The first order of business is to prune the tree as required. More importantly, these instruments must be vital components of your tree safety gear. Protect yourself and others by using only properly maintained, sharp tools you can use safely.

The following may be useful when trimming trees:

• A chainsaw
• Ropes
• Ladders
• A hand saw or two 
• A pole saw of one variety or another
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) 
• Loppers and shears to cut small branches

A chainsaw’s safety measures include a hand brake and anti-kickback teeth, engaged if the user loses control of the saw. Before utilising any items on the above list, you should know their functions, safety features, and restrictions. 

Before pruning any trees, you should also familiarise yourself with the following personal protective equipment (PPE) and learn how to use it properly:

• Hardhat
• Hearing protection
• Heavy-duty gloves
• Wear safety goggles, a full face shield, or a face shield with glasses.
• equipment for preventing falls, such as a harness and ropes
• Work boots or steel-toed boots are appropriate footwear.
• When using a chainsaw, wear leg chaps.
• Reflect or wear bright, high-visibility clothing when working with or near others.

Tree Trimming Safety Guide

Picking up a pruning saw can make you question whether or not you need to remove that branch or whether or not this is the best time to prune the tree. If you follow a comprehensive safety guide for tree trimming, you may get the answers to all these issues and safely conduct the trimming work. 

Suppose you’re trimming trees near power lines, removing huge dangling or dead branches, or cutting down trees close to a house or other structure. In that case, you should take extra precautions to ensure your safety by following the guidelines in this article. Those working in the amenity tree business, such as arborists, gardeners, horticulturists, tree workers, developers, tree climbers, builders, and landscapers, will find this resource useful.

Homeowners can benefit greatly from this Guide, and it will assist in safeguarding the safety of their neighbours and anybody else who may be impacted by tree removal and pruning projects.

This safety guide for tree pruning and removal contains important information you should know before doing such work. Here are some important safety considerations during tree trimming:

Examine The Tree

It would be best if you had a strategy before you could get to work. Local arborists dedicate their lives to studying every aspect of trees. While it’s okay to go quite that far, it is important to have an idea of where the branches will fall once they’ve been cut so that you can keep them from colliding with people or buildings. 

Prepare a plan for climbing to the branches you need to trim. Do you need to hire your lift gear, or do you already have the necessary ladders and/or climbing gear? It would be best if you also made preparations for gently using ropes and a partner to lower hazardous branches. 

Wear The Appropriate Gear

Leather lineman’s gloves, comfortable eye protection, a hard hat, and ear protection are all essential when operating power tools like trimmers and chainsaws to prevent injury to your hands, head, eyes, and ears. Wearing footwear with a heel and slip-resistant soles can help lower the risk of slips and falls. Trimming trees close to power lines requires special safety gear, including a non-conductive hard hat and snug, long-sleeved clothes.

Personal protective equipment’s sole function is to ensure your safety. Wear protective gear like gloves, goggles, a hard hat, and boots whenever you work, no matter how little the task. Chaps with high cut resistance and hearing protection are essential when operating a chainsaw.

If you need to trim a tree at a height beyond what you can achieve with a ladder, we advise you to hire a professional. To get to the branches that need to be trimmed, professionals will employ fall protection, such as a harness and rope system approved for use in the industry. 

Mark The Danger Zone And Stay Out Of It.

Potential risks, such as electrical cables and damaged tree limbs, should be inspected before trimming or pruning. Before beginning work, make sure all potential dangers have been removed. 

To avoid injury when on the ground, mark the tree’s base with a circle at least 1.5 times the tree’s diameter using marking paint, flags, or some other identifier. Keep everyone and everything away from the tree while working on it.  

Get The Right Training

You need to receive the appropriate training to use a chainsaw or an aerial lift in any capacity. Therefore, make sure that you have obtained the appropriate training to handle the instruments that you need to perform the necessary trimming or pruning, and also make sure that you have received the appropriate training to climb the tree. 

Check The Weather Forecast.

If the weather prediction for the day calls for rain, ice, storms, or high winds, you should not attempt to prune a tall tree because doing so will require climbing or aerial access. Before beginning any work after a storm, you should thoroughly inspect the tree and the surrounding area, looking for potential dangers such as shattered branches and downed power lines.

Consider Electronics To Avoid Electrical Risks

A power line that has fallen may still be able to retain sufficient energy, which can result in severe casualties. Therefore, to guarantee adequate safety, you should always operate under the assumption that the power lines are energised before verifying that they are not. Additionally, make sure to use extreme caution whenever you are moving conductive instruments close to electricity lines. 

Line-clearance tree trimmers must undertake any tree pruning that requires them to come within 10 feet of live power lines. Within audible range, you’ll need a second tree trimmer. Before beginning any work, you should call the utility provider to have the lines de-energised and grounded.

Make A Retreat Plan

If you have a helper on the ground with you, you should know the quickest and most obvious escape route in case something goes wrong. Even if humans cannot outrun a falling tree limb, they should try to move as far away from the area as possible if they see warning signals that the branch is about to fall in an area where it shouldn’t. 

Before Climbing, Inspect The Tree.

Look for tree limbs that are either dead or weak, and break or chop off any that you find dead. Under no circumstances can you rely on broken, brittle, or dead branches for support. While climbing, be sure your feet and hands are on separate limbs, and take only one step at a time. An aerial lift might be required if climbing the tree would endanger anyone.

Team Up With A Partner

If you need to prune a tree from a higher vantage point, it is advisable to collaborate with a partner who can perform the work from the ground. You must have a partner when working within ten feet of electrical lines. In addition, you should refrain from attempting the climb while holding any of your tools. After you’ve reached the top of the climb, your buddy should hand them to you.

Tree Trimming Tool And Equipment Safety

Make sure you and the workers get home safely after pruning the trees. Use the necessary tools, protective clothing, and training as outlined in a safety checklist. Keep a tight eye on things and map out escape routes, just in case. You may improve the look of your trees without risking your safety.

Tool And Equipment Inspection And Maintenance

• Please make sure all tree-trimming gear is in good working order by checking it on a regular basis.
• Look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or dangling hardware.
• Sharpen cutting blades on a regular basis to keep them sharp.
• Reduce friction and increase efficiency by lubricating chains, gears, and other moving parts.
• In order to avoid potential injuries, you should immediately replace any damaged or worn components.
• It’s important to keep tools and equipment out of the elements to prevent rust and corrosion.

Proper Tool And Equipment Handling And Storage

• Take care when using any and all tools and equipment, and always refer to the manual for guidance.
• Avoid potential harm by not employing defective instruments and machinery.
• Put tools and supplies where they will be safe from theft or damage.
• Chainsaws, trimmers, and other cutting tools should be kept out of the hands of children and other unwarranted individuals.
• When not in use, lock your tools and equipment away to prevent theft or misuse.

Chainsaw, Pole Pruner, And Trimmer Safety

• Before using these tools, read the manual and familiarise yourself with the manufacturer’s safety precautions.
• Put on your protective gear, such as a hard hat, safety glasses, ear muffs, and gloves.
• When operating the tool, hold the handles firmly and always use both hands.
• Get rid of any potential dangers, like stray branches or power lines, to ensure you have a clean and safe workplace.
• Maintaining balance and control while using the tool requires a stable stance and the right positioning.
• To ensure precise, clean cuts, check the blades regularly for sharpening and replace them as needed.

Identifying And Assessing Hazards

Follow these safety guidelines to reduce the risk of injury during tree trimming. This safety checklist will ensure you have everything you need to trim trees without risk, from looking for potential risks to utilising the appropriate tools and protective equipment.

Before Trimming, Look For Potential Hazards

• Look for cracks, decay, and dead branches when inspecting the tree. These can be dangerous during the cutting process.
• Check the area around the tree for any buildings, power lines, or other trees that might pose a threat. The potential for injury while trimming is raised by their presence.
• Look for signs of wildlife, such as nests of birds or bees. They can be dangerous if disturbed.

Assessing Each Hazard’s Risk Level

• Determine the level of danger posed by each hazard by considering relevant aspects such as the height of the tree, the weight of its limbs, and its closeness to buildings or electrical lines.
• Consider the tree trimmers’ experience, the state of the equipment, and the climate to estimate the potential for accidents.

Strategies For Reducing Risks

• Ensure the area around the tree is completely blocked off to ensure everyone’s safety. Both unwanted visitors and potential injuries can be avoided in this way.
• Wear protective gear such as goggles, a hard hat, gloves, and shoes with good traction. The use of personal protective equipment aids in avoiding harm.
• Get the job done with the proper equipment. Accidents can be avoided or mitigated during tree trimming with sharp, well-maintained tools.
• Tree trimmers should go through extensive training. Learning to use equipment and tools safely and respond in an emergency is part of this.
• Avoid getting too close to live wires. Maintain a safe distance of at least ten feet and always treat live power lines as live.
• Practice safe climbing procedures. If you must climb a tree, don’t use spikes, as they increase the likelihood of injury and a fall.
• Maintain open lines of communication with your crew as you trim. This ensures everyone knows the risks and can take the appropriate measures to protect themselves.
• Prepare yourself for the worst. First aid supplies, fire extinguishers, and a list of emergency contacts should all be easily accessible.
• Inspect and maintain machinery regularly to guarantee its proper functioning. Before each use, make sure there are no defects or problems.
• Maintain monitoring of the weather. Storms and high winds increase the danger of tree trimming, so it’s best to wait for better weather.
• Use correct methods of pruning. Proper removal of branches protects trees from harm and keeps people safe.
• Maintain a schedule of routine risk assessments. Assess the current safety protocols and make any necessary modifications to ensure that tree trimming proceeds without incident.
• Always update your knowledge of your field’s latest safety norms and regulations. Keep yourself from getting behind the times when it comes to tree trimming.

Conclusion

Tree trimming involves climbing and shaping trees without cutting them to the ground, often using portable power instruments like chainsaws and trimmers. The most common causes of injury during tree maintenance are falling from heights, being struck by trees, and being electrocuted. To ensure safety, it is essential to check and service tools and machinery regularly, establish escape routes in advance, and keep a close eye on employees. A pre-start safety check is also crucial.

Tree trimming and removal work involve pruning, removing, repairing, and preserving amenity trees, which serve various purposes. Properly maintained, sharp tools are essential for tree safety. Some useful tools include chainsaws, ropes, ladders, hand saws, pole saws, personal protective equipment (PPE), and loaders and shears for small branches. Before using any tool, familiarize yourself with its functions, safety features, and restrictions.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) should include a hardhat, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, safety goggles, a full face shield, or a face shield with glasses. Work boots or steel-toed boots are appropriate footwear for chainsaw use, leg chaps for chainsaw use, and reflective clothing when working with or near others.

A comprehensive safety guide for tree trimming can help answer questions about pruning and ensure safety. For those working in the amenity tree business, such as arborists, gardeners, horticulturists, tree workers, developers, tree climbers, builders, and landscapers, this resource is useful. Homeowners can benefit greatly from this guide and help safeguard the safety of their neighbors and others affected by tree removal and pruning projects.

Before pruning a tree, inspect the danger zone and remove any potential hazards, such as electrical cables or damaged limbs. Mark the tree’s base with a circle at least 1.5 times its diameter and keep everyone and everything away from it. Get the right training to handle the necessary tools and climb the tree. Check the weather forecast and consider electronics to avoid electrical risks. Line-clearance tree trimmers must operate within 10 feet of live power lines and call the utility provider to de-energize and ground them. Make a retreat plan with a helper on the ground and inspect the tree before climbing. Team up with a partner if working from a higher vantage point and avoid attempting the climb while holding tools.

Ensure tree trimming tool and equipment safety by using the necessary tools, protective clothing, and training as outlined in a safety checklist. Keep a tight eye on things and map out escape routes. Regularly inspect and maintain tree-trimming gear, lubricate chains, gears, and other moving parts to reduce friction and increase efficiency. Keep tools and equipment out of the elements to prevent rust and corrosion.

Proper handling and storage of tools and equipment are crucial for safety during tree trimming. Always refer to the manual for guidance and avoid using defective instruments. Keep tools and supplies safe from theft or damage, and lock them away when not in use. Before using chainsaws, pole pruners, and trimmers, read the manual and familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s safety precautions. Wear protective gear, hold handles firmly, and maintain balance and control. Regularly check blades for sharpening and replace them as needed.

Identify and assess potential hazards before trimming, such as cracks, decay, dead branches, buildings, power lines, and wildlife. Determine the risk level of each hazard by considering factors like tree height, limb weight, and proximity to buildings or electrical lines.

Strategy for reducing risks include blocking off the area around the tree, wearing protective gear, using proper equipment, undergoing extensive training, avoiding close proximity to live wires, practicing safe climbing procedures, maintaining open communication, preparing for emergencies, regularly inspecting machinery, monitoring weather, using correct pruning methods, scheduling routine risk assessments, and updating knowledge of safety norms and regulations.

Content Summary

• Trimming trees requires a unique set of skills, such as climbing.
• Common risks during tree trimming include falls and electrocution.
• Servicing tools and machinery is essential for safety.
• Always conduct a pre-start safety check before beginning work.
• Using appropriate equipment is vital during tree trimming.
• Tree trimming can cause injuries if not done safely.
• Amenity trees serve various purposes but aren’t used agriculturally.
• Tools used in tree trimming also act as safety gear.
• A chainsaw’s safety features include a hand brake and anti-kickback teeth.
• Familiarity with personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for safety.
• PPE includes hardhats, hearing protection, safety goggles, and more.
• Professionals in the amenity tree business can benefit from tree trimming safety guides.
• Homeowners are also advised to follow tree trimming safety guidelines.
• Planning is crucial before tree trimming to avoid collisions.
• Proper climbing preparations are necessary when accessing higher branches.
• Leather lineman’s gloves and other PPE protect against injury.
• Special safety gear is needed when trimming near power lines.
• Identifying potential risks like electrical cables is essential before trimming.
• The base of the tree should be marked to avoid injuries on the ground.
• Proper training is essential for using chainsaws or aerial lifts.
• Avoid tree trimming during adverse weather conditions.
• Always assume power lines are energised for safety.
• Pruning near power lines requires special tree trimmers.
• It’s important to have an escape route in case of emergencies.
• Inspect trees for weak or dead branches before climbing.
• Working with a partner ensures safer tree trimming.
• Regular inspection and maintenance of tree-trimming gear is vital.
• Damaged or worn components should be replaced immediately.
• Tool handling should follow guidelines from manuals.
• Chainsaws and other tools should be kept away from children.
• Familiarity with safety precautions for tools like chainsaws is important.
• Stable stance and positioning are essential when using tools.
• Before trimming, potential hazards such as cracks and decay should be identified.
• The surrounding area should be checked for buildings or power lines.
• Wildlife, like bird nests or bees, can pose risks during trimming.
• Risk assessment involves considering factors like tree height and equipment state.
• Blocking off the area around the tree ensures safety.
• Proper equipment usage can reduce accidents during tree trimming.
• Training for tree trimmers is crucial for emergency responses.
• Climbing trees should avoid the use of spikes for safety.
• Good communication among the crew is necessary during trimming.
• Emergency supplies, like first aid, should be readily available.
• Regular machinery inspection guarantees safe functioning.
• Adverse weather conditions increase tree trimming dangers.
• Correct pruning methods are essential for safety.
• Regular risk assessments help identify and mitigate safety issues.
• Updating knowledge on safety norms is crucial for tree trimmers.
• Personal safety is enhanced with the use of protective gear.
• Sharp and well-maintained tools mitigate potential injuries.
• Tree trimming safety involves thorough preparation and attention to detail.

FAQs About Tree Trimming

What Happens If I Don’t Trim My Trees?

If you don’t trim your trees, they can become overgrown and pose a risk during storms. Weak branches may break, causing property damage or even endangering people. Additionally, overgrown trees may become more susceptible to diseases and pests. Regular trimming promotes healthy growth and reduces potential hazards.

How Often Should I Trim My Trees?

The tree trimming frequency depends on the tree type and its growth rate. Generally, it’s recommended to trim trees every 3 to 5 years. However, faster-growing trees may benefit from more frequent trimming, while slower-growing ones can be trimmed less often. An arborist can provide personalised advice based on your specific tree species and local conditions.

How Do I Dispose Of Trimmed Branches?

You can dispose of trimmed branches in a few ways. Many municipalities offer curbside pickup for yard waste, including branches. Alternatively, consider composting the branches or using a wood chipper to turn them into mulch for your garden. Some areas also have designated drop-off locations for yard waste. Just check with your local waste management or recycling centre for specific guidelines.

How Can I Tell If A Tree Is Healthy After Trimming?

A healthy tree will exhibit the following signs after trimming:

• New growth: Healthy branches will produce fresh foliage.
• Cicatrisation: The wounds from cuts will gradually close over, indicating the tree’s ability to heal.
• Steady growth: The tree should continue to grow and thrive in the seasons following trimming.

Are There Any Legal Restrictions On Tree Trimming?

Local ordinances and regulations may govern tree trimming, especially for protected or heritage trees. It’s crucial to check with your local municipality or consult an arborist familiar with local laws before initiating trimming activities.