It is hard to believe September has arrived, and the cool air is slowly creeping into our days and evenings. One trade that always seems to be busy, no matter the season, is our friends the arborists. This time of year often has people deciding to take down trees in their yard to prepare for winter.
Today, I want to chat about some safety tips arborists should follow, whether they own their own small business, or work for a larger company.
Always wear a helmet
Safety equipment is key, especially if you are working at elevated heights. Not only does a helmet protect your head in case of a fall, but it will also keep you safe if a branch falls in your direction. Ensure you have the correct helmet suited for the job, and that it fits appropriately.
Secure yourself with a harness
Along with your helmet, you should always invest in a suitable harness. Accidents can happen at any time, at any height, so ensure you are always secured. There is a plethora of harnesses to choose from and, like your helmet, you want to make sure that it is comfortable and fits well.
Prepare for the weather
When working outside, especially in Alberta, you want to prepare yourself for the elements. Whether it be rain, sleet, or heat, dress appropriately. It is also a good idea to avoid working during heavy storms to ensure your utmost safety.
Understand your equipment
If you are working on your own, or for a company, understanding the equipment you are working with is imperative to your safety. DF Safety offers several courses that can help prepare you.
Our Aerial Lift Safety Course covers the following:
- Looks at different types of lifts and their anatomy
- Shows why it’s important to conduct a thorough pre-shift inspection each day before putting a lift into service
- Looks at aerial lift stability and the importance of knowing the machine’s capacity
- Emphasizes the importance of planning each lift and setting up the machine properly to avoid hazards and obstacles around the work site
- Identifies the six most common hazards associated with aerial lift operation and explains how to recognize, avoid, or minimize them
Upon completion, you will gain access your certificate and a checklist which can be used by your employer to administer the required practical observation.
We also offer a Chainsaw Safety course, which, using live action demonstrations, animated diagrams, and interactive activities, provides you with the knowledge necessary to operate and control your chainsaw both safely and effectively. Upon successful completion of this online course, a certificate of completion will be available for download and printing. This course is recommended to be retaken every three years from the course completion date indicated on the certificate.
If you have questions about the courses mentioned above, or any of our other equipment safety courses, give us a call!