ArborTIMES is a digital publication for the tree care industry that delivers tree care business, safety, and equipment news.
Issue 08 | Summer 2024 arbortimes.org
Tree Care Business, Safety, and Equipment News
Training for Aerial Rescues
Buyer’s Guide: Chippers Danger Series: Hyperthermia Moving Giants Saving Time and Root Systems
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I am thrilled to introduce Amy Kent, our new managing ed- itor, and Mara Watts, our new associate editor. Together, they have been working behind the scenes at ArborTIMES for some time now and are excited to continue bringing you news from the tree care industry. I am particularly proud of our Summer issue, and can’t wait for you to dive in. EDITOR'S NOTE Leaving on a High Note
On the cover: A climber acts as an incapacitated subject during an aerial rescue training assessment. Source: North American Training Solutions
Our feature article is all about something no one wants to perform — aerial rescues. The risk of injury to friends and colleagues requires advanced thought, planning, and, most importantly, training. We offer two buyers guides for your consideration, featuring chippers and air ex- cavators. Both of these trusty pieces of equipment will make your life easier and, when used properly, safer. I was particularly awe-inspired by our feature on tree relocation. Some of these operations take up to a full year or more to ensure mature and mighty trees are preserved. Truly astonishing what goes into it. Our guide to outsourcing administrative tasks was written by our new associate editor, Mara, who is already a regular contributor to ArborTIMES . With so many tree care professionals staying busy in the field, it’s nice to know there are services that can step in to carry the load — or let you go on vacation. Special thanks to Mark Garvin for appearing in our Sage Advice article. The former CEO of the Tree Care Industry Association and current consultant with Tree Guard- ians reflects on what has changed in the industry as well as what hasn’t. Of special note is our Safety Tailgate column by Bob Lehman, director of organiza- tional development with Academy Trained. He offers a number of interactive fea- tures in his column, including a Field Safety Survey. We hope you participate in this anonymous survey to help us better understand your training practices, needs, and challenges. Finally, I want to say thank you for the warm welcome everyone in the industry has given me. I have learned so much during my time here and am grateful to be leaving on a high note. Millicent Skiles, Editor
ISSUE 8, SUMMER 2024
PUBLISHER Sachin Mohan: mohan@arbortimes.org EDITOR Millicent Skiles: editor@arbortimes.org MANAGING EDITOR Amy Kent: amy@arbortimes.org ASSOCIATE EDITOR Mara Watts: mara@arbortimes.org ART/TECH DIRECTOR Richard May: info@arbortimes.org SAFETY AND TRAINING ADVISORS Jared Abrojena Bob Lehman Korey Conry Ken Palmer Aaron Dikerson SENIOR ADVISORS Dane Buell Mark Garvin PRODUCED BY EDGE AHEAD ASSOCIATES For editorial and advertising inquiries: 1 Store Hill Rd, PO BOX # 334 Old Westbury, NY 11568 Tel. (516) 399-2627 Email: mohan@arbortimes.org Web: arbortimes.org No part of this publication may be reproduced without written consent of the publisher. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur. All uncredited photography is either supplied or sourced from a stock image bank.
Yours in safety,
Millicent Skiles
TO SUBSCRIBE email: info@arbortimes.org or subscribe online: arbortimes.org/subscribe
Mara Watts, Associate Editor
Amy Kent, Managing Editor
ArborTIMES Summer 2024 | 3
Table of Contents
ISSUE 8, SUMMER 2024
ArborTIMES is a fully digital publication for the tree care industry. It is produced by Edge Ahead Associates, creator of ArborEXPO, the industry’s first indoor/outdoor trade show and conference for arborists and green industry professionals. We’re connecting with experts, business owners, master trainers, and more to identify top stories and educational opportunities to deliver right to your inbox on a quarterly basis.
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TRAINING FOR AERIAL RESCUES by Ben Culbreth In a situation where an aerial rescue is needed, it can be easy to make hasty decisions — especially when that person is a friend. In one of the most danger- ous fields of work, aerial rescues are near the top of the list of the biggest challenges a tree care worker can face.
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BUYER’S GUIDE: CHIPPERS by Sarah Collie
Wood chippers make it easier to scale your business, allowing oper- ators to spend less time on cleanup, more time taking on new jobs, and even make a little extra money from waste products. However, not all wood chippers are created equal.
EDITOR’S NOTE 3 ArborTIMES editor Millicent Skiles bids farewell to the publication and welcomes new editors Amy Kent and Mara Watts.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT
SAFETY TAILGATE
Check out the latest products and services offered by the best brands in the tree care industry.
In many tree care companies and or- ganizations, the spirit of training gets lost in practice.
Morbark ................................................... 17 Quest Products LLC.................................... 51 RBG, Inc.................................................. 29 SavATree ..................................................67 Sennebogen .............................................41 SingleOps ...............................................45 Tracked Lifts .............................................. 2 UP Equipment............................................11 Woodcracker ...........................................35
ArborEXPO ...............................................70 ArborSystems .......................................... 48 Bandit...................................................... 21 BIK .......................................................... 19 Branch Manager ....................................... 56 Doggett .................................................. 54 Edge Ahead Associates ............................. 68 Fanno Saw ............................................... 43 Greenworks ..............................................57
Advertiser Index
All Access................................................ 25 Almstead ................................................50 Altec .......................................................13
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DANGER SERIES: HYPERTHERMIA by Jason Collins
SAGE ADVICE by Kelly May Former TCIA CEO Mark Garvin reflects on his career of political activism and business management in the tree care industry. SAVING TIME AND ROOT SYSTEMS by Jenny Cohen An air excavator can be just what you need when you're working with compacted soil, a complex root system, or need to get extra nutrients into the ground. PPE FOR HIGH HEAT by Jason Collins When summer temperatures are high and hard to escape, it's just as important to have the right personal protective equipment (PPE) for hot weather. Heat-related illness, also known as hyperthermia, can present many different symptoms. That’s why it’s important to recognize them so that the right treatment can be started immediately.
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OUTSOURCING ADMINISTRATIVE WORK by Mara Watts Handing tasks such as managing schedules, customer inquiries, and invoicing off to a third- party administrative ser- vice service can help save companies time and effort. MOVING GIANTS by Veronica Sparks Unlike traditional tree removal, relocation offers a method to preserve mature, valuable trees while accommodating urban expansion and landscape redesigns.
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WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
OUR FALL ISSUE COMING IN OCTOBER • Rigging systems • Enhancing urban ecosystems • Water conservation • Hiring contract climbers And more!
Got a story idea you’d like to see? Send your ideas to editor@arbortimes.org . Do you have photos of your crew in action? Send them to info@arbortimes.org. Proper techniques and PPE — hard hats, eye and hearing protection, and fall protection — are a must for photos depicting field work.
ArborTIMES Summer 2024 | 5
Continually talking to an injured worker while rescuing them from a dangerous situation is imperative to keeping them calm.
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Training for Aerial Rescues How preparing for the unexpected can save lives during stressful events By Ben Culbreth
Rescuing a colleague suspended in a tree isn’t rou- tine. Knowing how to handle these situations and what to do when an aerial rescue is necessary can oen be the difference between life and death. When someone is in a situation where an aerial rescue is needed, it can be easy to make hasty de- cisions — especially when that person is a friend. In one of the most dangerous fields of work, aerial rescues are near the top of the list of the biggest challenges a tree care worker can face. The tree care industry experiences more than double the incidents of accidents among all other occupations. Tree care work tabs an annual rate of 238.7 injuries per 10,000 workers , while all other occupations experience just 89.4 incidents per 10,000 full-time workers, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)’s Small Business Advocacy Review Panel. From the process to the equipment, here’s what safety experts and tree care business owners say is critical to know before, during, and aer an ae- rial rescue operation. PROPER PROCEDURES Before rushing to save someone, securing the scene is the most important thing to do first, says
Jonathan Sullivan, owner of Century Tree Care, LLC , and a contract trainer with Noble Oak Safe- ty and Training . Any response will depend on crew size, accord- ing to Sullivan, but it’s always ideal to have a per- son on the ground responsible for assessing the steps that need to be taken. “The number one rule we have is, ‘There are no second victims,’” he says. Sullivan describes the importance of crew mem- bers checking their emotional state before rescue begins. From there, it’s determining what’s need- ed for a specific incident. If the crew attempts a rescue, they must ensure there are no other haz- ards on the way up to the injured worker. “Once you get to the victim, your assessment phase is huge,” he explains, adding that this pro- cess begins with the acronym ABC to determine a climber’s condition.
A is for airways. Is the person breathing?
B stands for bleeding. Is the person bleeding?
C is circulation. Do they have a pulse?
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“So, if all three of those checked out and we’re in a calm situation, it’s fine for us to secure the victim and then wait for [emergency medical services] to get there to instruct us on if they want us to bring him down or not,” he says. HAVE A PLAN Another critical assessment is deter- mining if any gear compromise hap- pened during the incident. A success- ful rescue begins long before a rescue happens, according to Ed Carpenter, di- rector of operations at North American Training Solutions (NATS) . “A lot of it comes down to planning,” Carpenter says. Having critical information accessible, like the location of the nearest hospi- tals, fire departments, and the site’s address, makes the decision-making process easier during an emergency. He also recommends building an emer- gency action plan into daily meetings. “If you have it written down and you have it in a recognized location, all I need to do is train the worker, go to that job briefing, get the information off of this section,” Carpenter says. “But if it’s not written down, you gotta remember who to call and remember who’s going to do what and remember all that. You cognitively can’t process all that infor- mation in an emergency situation.” He says a critical question for tree care professionals to ask during a rescue is, “Are we capable of performing this, or do we need to bring in additional re- sources?” Depending on the circumstances, lo- cal rescue professionals may not be equipped to handle a specific circum- stance and will need more specialized support for situations, like a high-angle rescue or technical rescue. Carpenter notes that having a communication plan ready and knowing when addi- tional support is required is essential. “As a tree worker, because of the risk that’s involved in the environment, we’re
It is critical to have someone who can take charge in an emergency situation.
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very comfortable dealing with high risk, right?” Carpenter says. “However, if there’s a worker injured, a loss, whatev- er caused that injury, we may not have the competency or the capability to tru- ly help them, and we may be exposing ourselves and exposing our crews to ad- ditional risks. And professional rescuers are trained on that, and they’re trained on how to manage those things.” If an aerial rescue becomes necessary, communication can save a crew mem- ber’s life. According to Bear LeVangie, founder, director, and trainer of the Women’s Tree Climbing Workshop , it is critical to have someone who can take charge of the situation. “Chain of command is really important,” she says. “The person with more train- ing should also usurp the situation.” To help keep everyone calm, Sullivan says talking to the victim is crucial during a rescue. “You want to be talking to that guy during that whole ascent, whether they’re reactive or not,” he says. Having clear lines of communication with emergency professionals can make a significant difference during a rescue situation. Carpenter says one of the best things tree care companies can do is reach out to their local fire department and begin building rapport with them. “You can’t put a value on that,” he says. “It is tremendous. And it just takes time. It just costs time.” THE RESCUE GEAR BAG Carpenter says NATS focuses on train- ing clients with the equipment they use every day when it comes to having the right gear for a rescue. He says the gear question centers around what jobs they’re doing. “What is the work that’s being done on that site?” Carpenter asks. “If there’s work at height, what’s the ac- cess method?”
Noble Oak Safety and Training conducts an aerial rescue training class in collaboration with Century Tree Care and R&B Trees.
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depends on how oen a company has employees working at height. He rec- ommends training at least annually but having discussions about rescue regularly. Practicing removals is ideal before a busy season begins, he says, noting that if one person is alo during a job, there needs to be at least one other crew member on the ground who has the skill to reach them in the event of a rescue. “Our approach is, if you have one per- son alo, you have another person on the site on that level,” Carpenter says. Sullivan emphasizes hands-on training, which is why he recently helped orga- nize an aerial rescue training event in Oklahoma City, Okla. “Resources are out there,” Sullivan says. “You just have to go and get them.” Many tree care companies see training as an activity with diminishing returns, according to Sullivan. It’s an expense and loss of time that could be spent on a job. However, he believes improving safety techniques and procedures will make a company more efficient in the field. LeVangie says companies oen grow quickly and stop investing in the time it takes to train, leading to a large skill gap.
A team in the tree and a team on the ground work together to protect an injured worker.
leverage when a climber is immobile. It makes moving a person much easier, especially if there’s a significant differ- ence in body size. “So having those little tools can acceler- ate a rescue to be from two minutes to five minutes difference,” she explains. TRAINING FOR AERIAL RESCUES Carpenter says training frequency
Having a three-to-one pulley ready can make it easier to move someone out of tight spots, like the crotch of a limb, according to Sullivan. This equipment also makes it much easier for a person on the ground to move someone who may be immobile. The heightened stress levels in a res- cue situation can make securing a throw line more difficult, which is why LeVangie advocates for having a sec- ondary line. She says someone can typ- ically reach a person at height in under two minutes if they can clip and start climbing right away. “A wonderful thing for companies to start practicing and leading into motion every single time a climber gets into a tree is to put in another access line,” she says. “So, all that person has to do is walk up to the line, clip in, and start climbing.” LeVangie also notes that tree care workers should be familiar with the equipment their crew members use, so everyone knows what is compatible during rescue operations. She recommends using a webbed chest harness to assist a rescuer in gaining
Communication and a clear chain of command will ensure the right procedures are followed.
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Multiple rigging systems are required to safely lower an injured worker to the ground.
“The big gaps come because companies grow so fast that they don’t take time to invest in the simple training of their team,” says LeVangie, adding that she advocates for regular training so that the techniques become routine. “If you practice a rescue monthly, it becomes a habit.” There’s also value in bringing in third-party trainers, because they spot things and offer insight that tree care companies only training internally might not have considered. “It opens your worldview to a lot of oth- er things you might not have thought about,” she says. OSHA’S NEW REGULATIONS There are no mandated safety protocols specific to the tree care industry, except those working around utility lines and logging. Z133, while voluntary, carries the force of law when OSHA cannot find language in its own standards. According to Carpenter, there’s a void between utility work and logging, which most tree care companies or any- one who engages in some level of tree care, fall into.
new regulatory standard to address the tree care industry. “This standard is because the tree care industry has been identified and is now on public record,” Carpenter says. “We have 30 times [more] than the national average fatality rate.” According to OSHA’s initial analysis , some of the industry’s most common is- sues will be addressed with the new stan- dard, including the lack of timely rescue, chainsaw incidents, and electrocution. The process to kick off OSHA’s new standard began in 2006, indicating the extensive undertaking involved in implementing such measures. The preliminary analysis was published in March 2020, and the standard is ex- pected to be published in late 2024 or early 2025 before undergoing a public review period, according to Carpenter. STRIVING FOR SAFETY It’s easy to get started in the tree care industry. All that’s really needed is a chainsaw and a pickup truck. This low barrier to entry makes it a desirable field for someone looking to start their own business or make money on the side. But the risk of injury, or worse, is ever-present.
While safety regulations and discus- sions have not always been at the forefront, the tide is turning. Owners like Ben Martin of R&B Trees are see- ing more interest and investment in safety. “Specialty training, like aerial, is com- ing along,” Martin says. “The commu- nity wants it. But it is lacking.” Martin recently partnered with Sulli- van to host an aerial rescue training event in Oklahoma City that attracted local climbers and several from out of state. He hopes to see it grow into a multi-day event with vendors and addi- tional classes. Most importantly, safety topics are dis- cussed more oen. When an incident happens, it becomes a learning oppor- tunity instead of being swept under the rug and le unaddressed. For LeVang- ie, that makes all the difference. “The most important thing is to be transparent and talk about it right away. And to keep an open dialogue about it,” she says. “Because what happens is it creates a place of safety, where people feel open and heard. So, they can con- tinue to talk about it and learn from it and then grow as a company.”
OSHA is in the process of reviewing a
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ArborTIMES Summer 2024 | 13
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The Perfect Chipper Capacity is key to finding the right machine and ensuring it runs for years to come By Sarah Collie
Buying a wood chipper can be a hey investment, so knowing what to look for when buying one is essential. UNDERSTANDING WOOD CHIPPERS Most chippers are hand-fed machines that are mounted on wheels and typically pulled behind a chip truck, which catches the wood chips and trans-
A reliable wood chipper is a must-have for any tree care company looking to quickly process a tree, take on more work, and scale a business. Reducing logs and brush into wood chips may seem a little unnecessary when a tree needs to be hauled off anyway, but taking the time to chip a tree onsite pays off in several ways. As an aer-market product, wood chips can be sold in a variety of forms, such as landscape mulch, livestock bedding, biochar, and wood pellets. “Chippers are much more economical,” says Jason Morey, marketing manager at Bandit Industries, Inc . “Wood chippers reduce tree weight down into a more manageable size. So instead of having to deal with large pieces of debris, you can process it into smaller pieces and haul those chips somewhere else for dis- posal or sale.” Louie Weaver, vice president of sales and products at DYNA Products , agrees. “Having a wood chipper makes tree care companies more efficient, gives them more options, and makes them more successful overall.”
The Vortex V12-31 Brush Chipper has an oversized opening that can easily process limbs, branches, and even small whole trees.
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Bandit Industries’ Intimidator 18XP is the company’s most popular hand-fed, drum-style chipper, with an 18-inch capacity and a slide box feed system.
Users report that disc-style chippers tend to produce more uniform chips and throw the chips more efficiently at a greater velocity than drum chippers. But disc chippers may also struggle with larger logs and pieces of brush. Drum chippers’ increased torque and lower revolutions per minute (RPMs) make the machines adept at handling larger logs and bushier branches. Op- erators of drum chippers also remark how versatile the technology is, allow- ing them to tackle bigger jobs. Today, many manufacturers combine the two technologies to create premier chip- ping machines.
ports them offsite. Stationary whole- tree chippers are available, but these are usually used in commercial mulch or land clearing operations. All wood chippers feature a safety collar, feed hopper, knives or another cutting mechanism, and a chute where the wood chips exit the chipper. While electric wood chippers are catching on, most models have an internal com- bustion engine fueled by either gas or diesel. Though similar in many ways, chippers are not the same as shredders, which are typically smaller machines armed
Vortex chippers use the best of both tech- nologies in a joint drum-disc system, ac- cording to David Daymon, products busi- ness development manager for DYNA, which joined with Vortex in 2023. “Ours is technically a drum chipper with an attached propeller or fan,” Day- mon says. “Typically, disc chippers don’t cut as efficiently as drum chippers, and drum chippers struggle with throwing chips. Our drum chipper has a propel- ler fan attached, so it throws really well, like a disc chipper.” THE RIGHT CHIPPER
with duller knives that can break down plant material into finer pieces, like compost and mulch. Some manufacturers do make “chipper-shredder” combo units that have the capability to do both jobs. Wood chippers are typically one of two styles: disc or drum. The first disc chipper was invented in Germany in 1884. Eventu- ally drum chippers gained in popularity and were known as "chuck and duck" chippers be- cause of how fast material was dropped into the drum.
While there are many things to consider when investing in a wood chipper, capacity, safety, and regional fit are among the most important. Capacity According to Lou Hicks, region- al sales manager for Morbark, LLC , the first question he asks potential customers is how much wood they expect to pro- cess. From this answer, Hicks can direct a customer to the ap- propriately sized machine, even if it’s a little bigger or smaller than their expectations.
Vortex chippers feature a skinless/pocketless construction that provides a more durable weldment and easier access for service.
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Morbark LLC’s ZeroClutch systems feature an integrated sensor that monitors drum speed and will not allow the clutch to engage if material is lodged between the feed wheel and drum.
“You have to understand your area,” Hicks says. “Local dealers have a work- ing knowledge of the wood you can ex- pect to process in your region.” PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT Like any piece of equipment, wood chippers need to be treated with care and be provided with regular mainte- nance. The following practices will en- sure any chipper enjoys a long life. Don’t feed at capacity It’s a common misconception that a wood chipper’s ideal diet should be as large as the size of the infeed. Hicks explains that brush chippers should only be fed to their maximum capacity a fraction of the time. “There’s the mentality in the industry that ‘if it fits, it chips,’ but that’s not the mentality to have,” Hicks says. “In general, you want to feed your chip- per wood that is only two-thirds of the
longer infeed, so it takes longer for ac- cidents to happen,” Daymon explains. Bandit chippers go above and beyond Occupational Safety and Health Admin- istration standards, Morey says, and its newest chipper line is the safest yet. In addition to an operator toolbar, last chance table, and two cables that will reverse the machine in emergencies, Bandit chippers also contain a rope shear device designed to cut any rope that gets caught in the drum. Regional fit While many manufacturers have glob- al dealer networks, Hicks recommends purchasing from a local dealer, since different regions have different trees. Hardwoods, sowoods, and other types of trees react differently under the knife, and factors like temperature and moisture can also affect the chipping process.
The question of capacity is important, and experts agree that the perfect chip- per can handle most of the wood a tree care company expects to feed it daily, weekly, and yearly. “If you can fit 80 to 90 percent of the material you expect to process through it, it’s a good fit,” Weaver says. Safety Thanks to evolving technology, wood chippers are being built to be safer than ever. For instance, machines are oen painted with an eye-catching fin- ish. Not only does this help with brand recognition, but the improved visibility doubles as a safety feature. Daymon identified several features that DYNA has put in place to ensure the ultimate safety of Vortex chippers. “We have safety bump bars that stop the feed wheel from turning, a for- ward-reverse bar on the unit, and a
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opening size. Managing your chipper this way will extend the machine’s lon- gevity and performance.” Daymon notes that a chipper’s lifespan varies depending on how oen you use it and what size logs and brush you feed it. “If you give a 12-inch chipper a steady diet of 12-inch logs, it won’t last as long as if you’d been feeding it a diet of primarily eight-inch logs,” Daymon says. “A 12-inch chipper isn’t intend- ed to have a steady diet of 12-inch pieces.” Feeding a chipper at its maximum ca- pacity will only shorten its lifespan, while feeding it just under its capacity will ensure your chipper lasts for years to come. Routine maintenance With proper maintenance and care, Daymon expects chippers to have a
Morbark created the ChipSafe safety system that shuts down the chipper if either of the operator's gloves come near the sensor panels located in the feed chute.
lifespan of up to 15 years. He adds that the flipside is also true; abused or ne- glected equipment may last fewer than five years.
Wood chipper maintenance includes making sure its knives and anvil are sharp and lubricated, the belt and clutch are running properly, and filters are changed frequently.
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“Protect your investment by keeping your equipment maintenance up to date,” Daymon says. Safety concerns With recent news headlines, there’s no shortage of reminders that these machines are among the deadliest pieces of equipment in the industry. Manufacturers point to education as paramount in reducing wood chipper accidents. “We have owner-operator manuals, parts manuals, and service manu- als for our products,” Daymon says. “We’re building an array of online and in-person training resources, so our staff and customers are educated on the benefits and safety mechanisms of our products.” Hicks equates safe wood chipper opera- tion with proper maintenance and sug- gests that operators take up a daily rit- ual that includes inspecting for cracks in knives and properly adjusting belts and clutches. Seemingly trivial tasks need to become routine, manufacturers warn, since all parts of a chipper are connected, and an imbalance in any one part of the system could be danger- ous for the whole. Tree care workers minimize risk and maximize safety with wood chippers by being properly trained, exercising caution, and using common sense. Conclusion Chippers and chip trucks are valuable forestry tools. Although these powerful machines require routine maintenance to keep them operable and safe, the return on your investment will quickly become evident in time saved and jobs accomplished. When shopping for a chipper, keep an open mind and an honest inventory of the size and type of wood you process. A knowledgeable representative will guide you to find the perfect chipper for your business, setting you up for safety and success.
When buying a chip truck to match a chipper, transmission capacity is often the most important consideration.
Partnering With Chip Trucks
While chip trucks aren’t strictly essential, ex- perts agree that they make tree care jobs im- measurably easier, especially when chips need to be transported offsite. “A chip truck and a chipper go hand in hand,” says John Dean, inside sales specialist at Cus- tom Truck One Source, which sells new and used chipper trucks. “If you don’t have a chip truck, you’ll be limited in what you can do.” ONE CREW, TWO JOBS Combined with a rear-mounted bucket truck, chip trucks can add value by allowing one crew to tackle multiple jobs at once. The bucket truck can get a head start taking down trees and move onto another job while the chipper and chip truck stay behind to com- plete clean-up duties. This would allow crews to manage more jobs, increase productivity, and take on more work. CHIP TRUCK MUST-HAVES Dean recommends keeping the same chassis as other trucks when adding a chip truck to your fleet. “It’s convenient to work with the same chassis, so you have the same service and mainte- nance,” he says. “And your drivers are already familiar with that chassis, whether that’s Freightliner, International, or Peterbilt.”
While horsepower and torque are typically top- of-mind for most customers, Dean believes transmission may be even more important when it comes to a chip truck. “Transmission actually regulates what you can tow,” Dean says, adding that a vehicle’s trans- mission must be equipped to handle its combi- nation weight rating. This includes the chassis, the contents of the chip truck, and the chipper being pulled behind. Additional considerations include volume (how large your chip loads will be), whether the truck will need to hold other equipment and tools, and how many people it will need to carry. MAXIMIZING THE LIFESPAN Just like a wood chipper, routine maintenance keeps a chip truck on the road and at the job site. Dean stresses the importance of cleaning a chip truck after every use. The moisture in wood chips could seep into any imperfections in the metal and cause the box to start dete- riorating. In addition to regular cleaning, Dean encour- ages chip truck owners to get in the habit of conducting daily inspections and preventative maintenance.
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If you haven’t tried a Bandit unit for your operation, please contact a local Bandit dealer , email marketing@banditchippers.com or visit our website www.banditchippers.com and we will be happy to assist you!
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Too Hot to Handle Mitigating the dangers of heat-related illnesses on the job site By Jason Collins
occurs when the body gets too warm. Typically, nor- mal body temperature tends to be around 98.6 de- grees Fahrenheit, though it can sometimes be a bit higher or lower, varying from person to person. Once body temperature reaches 99 and above, this is con- sidered too warm and may indicate hyperthermia. Of all the heat-related illnesses, the most severe is heat stroke, which can lead to serious and sometimes fatal complications. In early stages, heat-related illnesses can be easy to remedy, but it’s important to be vigilant and know the warning signs of each condition. Heat Cramps The first level of heat-related illness tree workers can experience are heat cramps, which are a sign that your body is starting to get too hot. Symptoms include painful muscle spasms or tightening of the muscles that occur in places like your:
Summer is here, which means working outside in di- rect sunlight and heat for extended periods increases the risk of heat-related illnesses on the job. Similar to securing equipment and following safety procedures, it’s essential to do the same with your health. Approximately 1,220 people die annually in the U.S. from extreme heat , according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are quite a few common heated-related injuries and illnesses you can experience in the tree care industry, and the key to avoiding them is knowing how to recog- nize risk factors and early symptoms at the job site. UNDERSTANDING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS Heat-related illness, also known as hyperthermia, can present itself with many different symptoms and require different treatments. That’s why it’s im- portant to recognize the symptoms so that the right treatment can be started immediately. Heat-related illnesses are serious and can range from mild symp- toms like headaches to more severe symptoms like seizures, coma, and even death.
• Abdomen (belly) • Arms • Hands
Hyperthermia – the opposite of hypothermia –
Working outside in direct sunlight and heat for extended periods increases the risk of heat-related illnesses on the job.
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able to cool itself down.
Unlike heat cramps, symptoms for heat exhaustion can range from mild to severe. Like heat cramps, the num- ber one cause of heat exhaustion is dehydration, because your body has not replaced the electrolytes lost during periods of excessive sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, feeling faint and weakness. Other lesser-known symp- toms of heat exhaustion can be pale and moist skin. If you notice someone working in extreme heat looking pale and clammy, this indicates that some- thing serious is going on. Failure to treat heat exhaustion in a timely manner may cause permanent damage to organs and even death. Heat Stroke The most serious of the three heat- related illnesses is heat stroke. This hap- pens when the body temperature rises dramatically above 104 degrees Fahren- heit and can be a deadly condition. There are two different types of heat stroke: exertional heatstroke and non- exertional heatstroke. Tree care workers are most likely to experience exertional
Keep your body cool by removing excess clothing and placing damp, cool cloths on the neck and head.
ples or red blisters and typically form in areas like the crease of your elbow, under your breasts, on the upper chest and neck, as well as the groin area. Clammy skin, dizziness, weakness, and extreme sweating can accompany heat cramps. Heat Exhaustion The next level of heat-related illness is heat exhaustion, which occurs when the body heats up too much and is un-
• Feet • Legs • Rib cage • Shoulders
Heat cramps are caused by a loss of electrolytes in the body (salt and nutri- ents) through excessive sweating. We’ve been taught from a young age to drink water when it’s hot and you’re sweating. However, this is two-fold. Drinking too much water during very hot conditions, combined with exces- sive sweating, means you’re flushing out those electrolytes faster than tak- ing them in. As your body temperature rises, some changes occur. Unlike a normal fever, where the brain’s hypothalamus in- creases your body’s set-point tempera- ture, your brain does not intentionally increase your body’s temperature. Instead, you’ll start experiencing symp- toms like heat cramps as your tempera- ture rises. Another side effect of excessive sweat- ing due to heat is heat rashes, which oen accompany heat cramps.
Heat rash, commonly known as prickly heat, sweat rash, or miliaria, presents as a skin condition characterized by pimple-like eruptions due to clogged sweat ducts.
These rashes will look like small pim-
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Evaporative cooling is an effective method that can be achieved by undressing, then moistening the individual with water and generating air movement over their body to facilitate the cooling process.
• Seizures • Weakness
problems, and metabolic dysfunction.
heatstroke caused by physical overexer- tion in hot and humid conditions. The symptoms of heat stroke are much more severe and indicate later stages of heat stroke. If a worker is suffering from any of them, they need to call 911 for help immediately.
Treatment of Heat-Related Illness Treatment for early-stage heat-related illnesses can start with simple things,
Heat stroke can cause serious compli- cations, such as brain swelling, organ failure, nerve damage, circulatory
Symptoms include:
• Anhidrosis (dry skin with no sweating) • Ataxia (problems with movement) • Balance problems • Dizziness • Excessive sweating aer you have stopped all exercise or labor • Hot, flushed skin • Pale skin • Low or high blood pressure • Nausea and vomiting • Crackling in the lungs • Oliguria (low urine) • Tachycardia (increased heart rate) • Fainting
Urine can be a telling indicator of hydration in adults. If the urine is clear and flows well, it typically means the person is well-hydrated.
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Protection Plans How to implement a protocol in accordance with OSHA standards By Korey Conry, Field Safety Supervisor, Mountain F Enterprises
To maintain the well-being of employees during high heat conditions, companies are required to implement heat illness protection plans. These plans not only ensure compliance with federal standards laid out by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) but also obey additional rigorous guidelines set by other states. With temperatures on the rise this time of year, the importance of these protocols cannot be overstated. Understanding the Risks Arborists, construction workers, agricultural laborers, and other outdoor maintenance crews are particularly vulnerable to heat-related ill- nesses due to prolonged exposure to high tem- peratures. Factors such as high humidity, direct sunlight, and demanding physical activity can worsen these risks even further. OSHA Regulations OSHA has recognized standards to protect workers from heat-related hazards. These guidelines point out the importance of employ- ers providing access to water, rest breaks, and a shaded area. Also, employers must use an acclimation system for workers in hot or new environments to grad- ually build up and train them to recognize the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. According to OSHA, employers must develop a Heat Illness Prevention Plan modified to their specific worksite conditions. This plan should in- clude procedures for monitoring workers’ condi- tions, responding to signs of distress promptly, and ensuring emergency medical services are immediately available, if needed. Regular training sessions are important to edu- cate workers on preventive measures and emer- gency protocols or to have an emergency action plan in place. State Requirements Some states have additional standards to pro- tect workers. For example, the California Division
of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) is one of the strictest state regulatory bodies re- garding heat illness prevention. The organization imposes additional obligations on employers in the state, going beyond the fed- eral requirements and mandating specific mea- sures to protect workers from heat-related risks. Under Cal/OSHA regulations, employers must provide cool drinking water to workers at no cost and always have access to shade whenever tem- peratures exceed a certain threshold. The shade must be enough to accommodate all employees on meal breaks or breaks in between meals. Also, employers are required to implement high- heat procedures, which include closely moni- toring employees for signs of heat illness and implementing additional preventive measures when temperatures soar. Implementation Challenges Despite the clear regulatory framework estab- lished by OSHA and Cal/OSHA, implementing effective heat illness prevention plans can be very difficult for employers. In industries where outdoor work is unavoidable, such as tree work, ensuring accordance with heat safety regulations while maintaining pro- ductivity can be a hard balance. One of the main challenges is changing work- place culture and attitudes toward heat safety. In a lot of cases, workers and climbers may resist taking adequate breaks or wearing protective gear, fearing it could slow down their production numbers or that the crew could be perceived as not being tough enough. Employers must keep education and training to overcome these stereotypes and adopt a culture of prioritizing the long-term employment with the company. Best Practices Several best practices can help employers mitigate the risks associated with heat-related illnesses while complying with OSHA and Cal/
Make sure you are drinking liquids with added electrolytes, like a sports drink.
such as moving to a cooler location, getting out of the sunlight, or seeking medical treatment. If you’re experienc- ing heat cramps and heat exhaustion while you’re working, you need to move to a cool place to rest. Keep your body cool by removing ex- cess clothing and placing damp, cool cloths on the neck and head, and make sure you are drinking liquids with add- ed electrolytes, like a sports drink. If your body is cramping, try to stretch out those areas to relieve the cramps. For more serious symptoms, head to a hospital to test your temperature and check for organ dysfunctions while also doing a complete blood count and other medical tests. You should seek medical attention within 30 minutes of experi- encing mild to severe symptoms. In the hospital, doctors will likely give you flu- ids intravenously and other medication to combat the symptoms. Typically, the treatment for heat cramps, heat rash, and heat exhaustion happens quite rapidly aer arriving at a medical center. This is because your body desperately needs to cool down and replenish electrolytes. For heat stroke, recovery can take lon- ger, from a few days to a week, depend- ing on how severe your symptoms are. If you have long-term complications, like acute respiratory distress
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OSHA standards. These include: • Risk assessment Conducting thorough risk assessments to identify potential heat haz- ards in the workplace • Engineering controls Implementing engi- neering controls such as shade structures to reduce heat exposure • Workplace modifications Adjusting work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day or rotating workers between climbing and groundmen tasks • Personal protective equipment (PPE) Providing appropriate PPE, including light- weight, breathable clothing, hard hats, and sunscreen • Training and education Conducting reg- ular training sessions to educate workers on recognizing the symptoms of heat- related illnesses and the importance of hydration and rest breaks • Monitoring and supervision Applying protocols for monitoring workers’ condi- tions and ensuring supervisors are trained to recognize signs of distress and respond effectively As temperatures continue to rise, protecting outdoor workers from heat-related illnesses becomes gradually critical. OSHA and Cal/ OSHA have established comprehensive reg- ulations to guide employers in developing tough heat illness protection plans. By making employee safety, implementing preventive measures, and raising a culture of awareness, companies can ensure compliance with regulatory standards while safeguarding the well-being of their workforce. Heat illness prevention isn’t just about follow- ing regulations; it’s about caring for the health and safety of those who keep our industries running. Korey Conry is a field safety supervisor and trainer at Mountain F Enterprises. A Utility Arborist through ISA, TCIA Instructor, Flagger Instructor, CPR Instructor, and OSHA authorized trainer. He teaches a five-week utility ar- borist course in California at Butte College.
Taking certain medications can also increase your risk of a heat-related illness.
syndrome or renal failure, the road to recovery will likely be longer, making it difficult for you to return to work. Risk Factors Working on trees, especially up in trees, can be physically taxing and can take its toll while in the heat. Some people are more at risk for de- veloping a heat-related illness than others. Taking certain medications can also increase your risk of a heat-related ill- ness, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. These include diuretic pills, also known as water pills, antihistamine medica- tions for allergies, and antipsychotic medicine used for neurological ill- nesses. These medications can impair the body’s natural ability to cool itself down, which can be dangerous when performing intensive physical labor in the heat.
• Lack of experience working in the heat • Not taking frequent enough breaks • Wearing very heavy, thick, or dark clothing • Age • Gender: men are more likely to suf- fer from a heat-related injury than women • History of a heart-related illness Preventing Heat-related Illness The best way to prevent heat-related illness is to get out of the heat and rest somewhere cool for a short period. Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can also help. And for situations where you can’t stop working, a cold compress to your skin can help. Drinking electrolyte-infused fluids can help replenish all the nutrients lost from sweat. If you’re drinking cold water, it may be tempting to guzzle it down, but it’s important to slow down and take small sips. Drinking too much water all at once just flushes out the nutrients in your body faster.
Other risk factors include:
• Poor physical fitness • Using drugs or excessive alcohol
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92’ Vertical Reach
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30 | ArborTIMES Summer 2024 Whether you're a groundworker or climber, high temperatures affect everyone on site. The best way to beat the heat is with personal protection.
Keeping Cool With PPE Lightweight gear and clothing to protect from the sun and overheating By Jason Collins
Working in the tree care industry comes with risks of all kinds, especial- ly at such great heights. When you add the sweltering heat and humid condi- tions of summer, arborists may be at risk for heat-related illnesses. One of the simplest tips to prevent heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke is to move to someplace cool or shaded. The other part of the equation is having the right personal protective equipment (PPE) for hot weather. Ideally, this gear will both protect tree workers from the sun and keep them cool at the same time. However, in order to fight UVA and UVB rays, hot-weather PPE can oen be so thick and cumber- some that it is counterproductive, caus- ing the user to overheat instead. The happy medium is gear that pro- vides plenty of skin coverage while also being lightweight on the body. Here are some gear and clothing de- signed to keep you cool and comfort- able while at work. In addition to lightweight and breathable PPE, it's important to consider materials that wick moisture away from the body. Look for gear that incorporates mesh panels or moisture-wicking fabrics to maximize comfort.
SUN SLEEVES
VENTILATED GLOVES
Atlas FIT Summer Gloves
Solbari Sun Sleeves
Gloves are an important piece of PPE in tree care work, and even in hot weath- er, you are required to wear them. The great thing about gloves is that there are a wide variety of options designed for winter or summer. During hot weather, choose a pair of gloves made from a fabric that is venti- lated and breathable while still provid- ing adequate protection for your hands. The Atlas Fit Summer gloves are a great option because they’re made with a 10- cut poly cotton string knit seamless liner that keeps your hands cool with a specialized latex palm for added grip.
Wearing sun sleeves while working out in the hot sun is a great way of protect- ing your skin from harmful UV rays while still being breathable to prevent overheating. Choose a pair of sun sleeves that come with a UPF rating of 50+, which can be doubled up with sunscreen for added protection. You can sport sun sleeves that stop at your upper arms or sleeves that go up to your shoulders for more protection. When picking your pair of sun sleeves, you’ll want to choose a light color, as darker colors will attract the heat.
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