Tree Cutting Safety
A forester needs to be aware of three major safety concerns as he works with tree cutting. These dangers are electrocution, falling from trees, and being struck by trees as they fall, or falling from trees being trimmed. Other safety issues exist as well. These include proper operation of chain saws and other equipment. Does this Spark an idea?
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Electrical Dangers
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The tree trimmer must identify electrical lines near where she is working and stay at least 10 feet away from them at all times. If she isn't qualified to work near power lines, according to the National Ag Safety Database, she must call the power company to send someone to trim the tree professionally.
Falling Dangers
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The tree cutter must know how to tie knots on safety ropes to either tie him in the tree he is cutting or to secure the ropes to equipment. The person felling trees must understand how trees fall and always have a clear path to safety planned before the final cut is complete.
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Other Hazards
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Because trees don't always land where expected, a tree cutter must be on the lookout for other potential hazards and safety issues. Trees that don't go all the way down, or lodged trees, present the problem of how to finish cutting them down. Trees that go down too fast create a throwback hazard that can injure workers. Dead tree limbs sometimes drop without warning, causing a hazard for workers on the ground below. Environmental issues such as heat stroke on hot days, poison ivy and oak, and lightning strikes also affect forestry workers.
Chain Saws
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Tree cutting safety includes the proper use of chain saws. It's important to use the right size chain saw for the job. They must be placed on the ground for starting. All chain guards must be in place. The chain must have proper tension on the chain bar and it must remain sharp in order to avoid kick back.
Personal Protective Equipment
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It's important that tree cutters wear personal protective equipment at all times. This includes leather gloves, hard hats, protective eye wear or face shields. Because of the loud noise of a chain saw, it's best to wear ear protection as well. There should be a thorough inspection of safety harnesses and ropes before each use.
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References
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