Discover some essential tree surgeon & arborist tips, particularly with hand and power tool safety.
Working as an arborist or tree surgeon can be a rewarding profession, but it also comes with inherent risks. One of the primary aspects of the job involves using hand and power tools to prune, trim, and remove trees. While these tools are essential for the trade, it is crucial for arborists and tree surgeons to prioritize the safety of themselves and others to prevent accidents and injuries.
With the help of The Cincinnati Insurance Companies, we will explore some essential hand and power tool safety tips that every arborist and tree surgeon should keep in mind when working with hand and power tools.
Learn How To Properly Use Your Tools
Most of the time, doing is the best form of learning. Take a class at a home improvement store, or ask a tradesperson for advice. Spread the knowledge on to others. Provide the necessary safety equipment along with the operating instructions and safety guidelines if you are lending or giving away a tool. Before giving anyone a tool or piece of equipment, make sure they can demonstrate to you the necessary level of knowledge, skill, and awareness of the risks.
Read The Directions
The best source of information is the manual that came with the tool or piece of equipment. Keep them nearby so you can easily access them.
Put On Safety Gear
The most effective method of injury prevention is to wear the proper work attire, footwear, and personal protective equipment, such as eye protection. The kind of personal protective gear that is typically advised is listed in instruction manuals.
Don’t Ignore Any Safety Precautions
Despite the fact that it might be convenient to remove guards and disable engine-stop or double-action switches, doing so too frequently leads to a visit to the emergency room.
Maintain Your Equipment
Belts, shafts, chains, and other parts experience less stress and wear when using sharp blades because they cut more efficiently. Both the user and the tool live longer with regular and proper maintenance. The manufacturer’s website is likely to have the necessary instructions for use and care if you purchase a used tool or borrow one.
Check and Properly Store Your Tools
As well as all storage, fueling, and starting best practices, adhere to the pre-use check and inspection guidelines. To be kept informed of any recalls, mail in the product registration card. Additionally, recall alerts may be found online at the Consumer Product Safety Commission website, on the manufacturers’ websites, and in home improvement stores.
Keep Children and Animals Out of Work Areas
To avoid being distracted and to allow you to concentrate on your project, make sure you have someone assigned to provide supervision. Keep workspaces tidy and uncluttered. If you can, barricade the area. Otherwise, be careful of flying dust and debris.
If you’re local to the greater Rochester, NY region and you’d like to learn about arborist insurance coverage options, reach out to The Feltner Group. We’re happy to work with you regarding your policy options and will do what we can to help.