ASWP03 Ascending Trees
Fall protection equipment used to secure an arborist in the tree or from the bucket shall not
be used for anything other than its intended purpose
EXCEPTION: The arborist life line may be used to raise and lower tools.
Rope ends shall be finished in a manner to prevent unraveling
Arborist life lines and climbing equipment shall be stored and transported in such a manner
as to prevent damage through contact with sharp tools, cutting edges, gas, oil, chemicals or
ultraviolet light
Arborist life lines shall never be left in trees unattended
When working aloft (refer to ASWP 04 Working at Heights) or ascending the tree and using
sharp tools (e.g. handsaw, chain saw, or pole pruner) you shall be tied in twice in a position
which will prevent a fall if one of the means of securement is cut
All fall protection components shall be compatible
Note: If a knot used for fall protection other than found in Appendix D is desired; the proposed
knot should be tested according to the Standards for Knot Testing protocol.
4.1 Job Planning
A thorough job plan shall be completed prior to ascending a tree. The following is a guideline
of topics that should be discussed in the planning process. All crew members shall be party to
the job planning process and job plans must be documented in writing (refer to ASWP 02 Job
Planning).
Step Action
Determine ascent route and work
required within the crown of the tree
Ascent route must consider hazards such as,
electrical, structural integrity of the tree, insect or
animals
Determine locations for interim
anchor points
Visually assess potential anchor points to ensure
that they are strong enough to withstand the
forces that will act on them
Look carefully for any structurally limiting defects
that could lead to failure of the anchor point
Determine location of final anchor
point
The final anchor point location that will provide the
best support and freedom of movement for the
arborist is generally the highest, most centrally
located point within the tree
Visually assess the structural integrity of this
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