To mitigate climbing risks, climbers must understand their rope. Rope stretch can absorb energy and reduce shock loads, but only when used cor- rectly. “If you don’t know how much stretch your rope should have for the job, you’re setting up a shock load that could injure your climber,” warned Burley. ANSI Z133, Chapter 8, offers guidance in its climbing section. It calls for three points of contact, proper work position- ing, and awareness of rope elongation (stretch). These requirements signifi- cantly reduce the risk of spinal injury, which helps absorb shock loads. To further support this, OSHA states that ANSI Z133-2017 specifies that climbing ropes must not exceed 7% elongation under a 540-lb load, ensur- ing that predictable stretch without failure. Rigging choices and rope selection also play a major role in preventing shock loads. Chambrelli noted that stem work, in particular, creates con- ditions for injury. Climbers handle the biggest saws and heaviest rigging under fatigue, often forcing awkward positions that lead to musculoskeletal strain.
Whiplash is a type of neck injury that occurs when the head is abruptly jerked forward and backward with force. This motion can result in symptoms such as pain in the neck, reduced mobility, and frequent headaches.
gear strength alone. Even when ropes meet ANSI minimum standards (Chap- ter 8, Climbing), arborists must match rope choice to the task and anticipate its abilities under load. CHAINSAW SAFETY AND CLIP-IN DISCIPLINE Chainsaw work is among the most dan- gerous tasks an arborist performs on the job, according to Burley. “You’re holding a machine that can cut through a tree in seconds,” he said. “It demands your full focus and respect. Rushing or cutting corners is when mistakes and injuries happen.” He advocates for arborists and compa- nies to instill safe habits through rep- etition, proper standards, and training so that tie-ins and two-handed grip be- come second nature. The ANSI Z133, Chapter 6 (Chainsaws, section 6.3.6) requires climbers to tie in twice while using a saw. The 2026 revi-
“Most incidents aren’t from equipment failure,” said LeVangie. “They’re from human error. People often overload pul- leys or ropes because they feel invinci- ble with the gear.”
These mistakes can’t be avoided by
Glossary of Terms:
• Fall Arrest - A system designed to stop a worker from falling and reduce injury if a fall occurs. • Shock Load/Dynamic Load - A sudden force on equipment or the body caused by an abrupt stop or impact. • SLAP Tear - An injury to the shoulder where the labrum tears at the point where the biceps tendon attaches. • IPP (Injury & Illness Prevention Plan) - A written program outlining how a work- place prevents injuries and illnesses. • Whiplash - A neck injury caused by a sudden, forceful back-and-forth movement. • Work Positioning Lanyard - A rope or strap that keeps a worker in place while allowing hands-free work.
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