7 Safety Tips to Practice While Performing Tree Removal
There are certain times when a tree needs to be taken down whether for safety, new construction or aesthetic reasons. When a tree has lived its normal lifespan, it may begin to drop large limbs that can cause disastrous damage. If you find yourself needing to remove a tree, here are seven important tips to keep in mind:
Personal Safety
1. Everyone knows how dangerous it is to use power equipment and tools after they have consumed alcohol or recreational drugs. However, many over-the-counter medications have a sedentary effect and can cause drowsiness for some people even if the warnings on the label do not mention it. Never use power tools when taking any form of supplement because some people react in the opposite way than expected.
2. Surprisingly, people remember to wear safety goggles as eye protection when they use power equipment, but they tend to forget to wear noise-reducing ear protection. Disposable earplugs are a great option since they are inexpensive and effective without cutting out all background noise.
3. Perform a thorough pre-inspection of the tree that is slated for removal, and keep an eye out for poison oak and poison ivy. These two plant diseases cause annoying itchiness for most people; however, allergic reactions can occasionally create a life-threatening situation. Be especially watchful for diseased plant growth on areas with dead or decaying wood.
Equipment Safety
4. Always, place warning signs and rumble strips or other devices around the perimeter of where the tree removal is taking place. Passers-by should be visibly warned prior to their entering the immediate area.
5. Avoid using rope that is wet, has been driven over, or that has been left outside in the sun. These conditions cause rope to lose its strength and it is dangerous to rely on it.
Miscellaneous Tree Removal Tips
6. Alert local utility companies like the water bureau, telephone company and electricity providers if the tree is located in a rural area. Often, utility companies have special rules regarding trees and their roots, which may affect an underground utility system.
7. Always assume that every power line is active, and therefore, avoid any contact with one. Electrocutions happen all too often when the tree removal takes place near power lines. However, the two most common causes of serious injury and death during a tree removal are from falling and from being hit by falling tree limbs.
Please take note that large trees should be removed by a professional. If you are looking to get a tree removed call your local arborist or click here.