Guides & Toolkits

ASWP16 Use of a Mobile Crane to Remove Trees 4.0 Mandatory Information / Work Practices The following are the general mandatory requirements for an arborist when working with a crane to remove trees. Arborist aloft shall be: • Competent to calculate wood weights using various methods including: green wood weight chart, estimating by sight, application of suitable safety factors, wood strengths and variability, and tree characteristics • Familiar with crane performance charts (range and capacity) • Familiar with crane operations and suitable crane dimensions • Only competent personnel, deemed by the employer, shall work with a crane • Familiar with characteristics, defects and imperfections in trees • Knowledgeable of wood strength in tension wood • Familiar with safe work procedures to identify hazards and place barriers to the hazards general and specific to crane work • Able to communicate using – standard crane hand signals and or verbally • Advanced knowledge in rigging techniques and equipment • Familiar with the required Personal Protective Equipment and climbing equipment needed (inspection, maintenance and use) • Familiar with appropriate safe work practices to access trees • Familiar with safe work practices using a chain saw (aloft) and practical application of cuts when utilizing a crane • Familiar with rigging and control options available when using a crane • Aware of electrical hazards and appropriate procedures Crane operators shall have: • A valid certification (operator's license) Cranes 8 tons capacity and above or competency in operation of cranes 8 tons and below • Knowledge and performed Critical Lifts • Familiarity with the specific hazards associated with tree removal such as: o Estimating tree weight calculations o Safety factors used o Load balancing o Movements of load o Experience on uneven and unknown ground support conditions o Wind / sail conditions o Uneven or unbalanced loading o Challenging communication situations o Load paths through possible traffic areas o Landing zone restrictions • Awareness of electrical hazards and appropriate procedures • The operators manual available and be familiar with the contents Page 137

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