Guides & Toolkits

ASWP04 Working at Heights 4.0 Mandatory Information / Work Practices The following are the general mandatory requirements for an arborist working at heights. In addition to these requirements, the work practice contains specific requirements that must also be followed. All trees must be inspected for hazards prior to climbing or working at heights (Refer to ASWP03 Ascending Trees) All appropriate Personal Protective Equipment must be worn while working at heights When one or more climbers are working at heights at least one Ground Assistant must be present At least one Ground Assistant at any given work site must know the Emergency Response Plan Those engaged in working at heights must be trained in proper knot tying, use of appropriate fall protection systems and techniques, conducting pre-climb inspection (Refer to ASWP03 Ascending Trees), aerial rescue techniques (Refer to ASWP11 Aerial Device Operation), appropriate descent and ascent methods and appropriate rigging techniques Drop Zone must be identified and controlled All rigging (Refer to ASWP06 Rigging Trees) and cutting equipment (Refer to ASWP12 Chain Saw Operation) must be inspected, as per manufacturer's recommendations, prior to daily use Ensure that chain saws and other gasoline-powered tools are fueled, sharp and running properly prior to sending aloft While working at heights climbers should use a second point of attachment for fall protection and to ensure a secure work position Follow ASWP06 Rigging Trees when performing work aloft and rigging equipment is required for the removal of limbs Precautions must be taken to eliminate the hazard of a potential 'reverse barber chair' All pruning tools and equipment not in use must be securely attached to a limb of sufficient strength to hold it and to keep it from coming in contact with any electrical conductor Corner cuts, two cuts on either side of notch, should be used to ensure that the bark does not strip down a limb When using a sharp tool (e.g. handsaw, chain saw, or pole pruner) aloft when climbing the tree, you shall be tied in twice with the second point of attachment shall be attached in a way to prevent a fall Note: A second point of attachment must be used when using sharp tools that could cut the life line except in circumstances where the hazards of using it are greater than not. Page 52

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