Cherry Picker Harness Safety (5 Pro Tips for Arborist Gear)

Okay, let’s dive into the world of cherry picker harness safety and arborist gear.

Introduction: Don’t Let a Simple Task Turn Tragic

I’ve seen it happen – a quick pruning job turns into a nightmare because someone thought they could skip a safety check or two. It’s tempting to think, “I’ll just hop up there for a minute,” but that’s precisely when accidents happen. A cherry picker harness, when used correctly, is your lifeline when working at height. Forget about using it safely, and you’re playing a dangerous game. In this article, I’m going to share five pro tips that I’ve learned over the years to keep you safe and sound while using arborist gear in a cherry picker. These aren’t just suggestions; they’re hard-won lessons gleaned from real-world experience.

Cherry Picker Harness Safety: 5 Pro Tips for Arborist Gear

Working in the tree care industry is rewarding, but it’s also fraught with risk. A cherry picker, also known as an aerial lift, offers access to high branches that would otherwise be unreachable. However, this convenience comes with the responsibility to prioritize safety above all else. A properly fitted and used cherry picker harness is your primary defense against falls, which can lead to severe injury or even death.

1. The Perfect Fit: Harness Inspection and Adjustment

Why it Matters: A harness that’s too loose won’t effectively arrest a fall, and one that’s too tight can restrict movement and circulation, leading to fatigue and potential health issues.

My Experience: I remember one scorching summer day when a new crew member complained that his harness felt “suffocating.” Turns out, he’d cinched it down way too tight. After a quick adjustment and some education, he was much more comfortable and, more importantly, safer.

The Details:

• Daily Inspection: Before each use, meticulously inspect your harness. Look for any signs of wear, such as frayed straps, damaged buckles, or compromised stitching. Pay particular attention to areas around D-rings and attachment points. According to OSHA, any harness showing signs of damage must be immediately removed from service.
• Proper Adjustment: Adjust the harness to fit snugly but comfortably. You should be able to slide a flat hand between the harness and your body at all points. The leg straps should be snug enough to prevent the harness from riding up during a fall but not so tight that they restrict circulation.
• Suspension Trauma Straps: Ensure your harness is equipped with suspension trauma straps. These straps allow you to relieve pressure on your legs if you’re suspended after a fall, delaying the onset of suspension trauma (also known as orthostatic intolerance).
• Fit Check: Perform a “fit check” by hanging in the harness (in a safe, controlled environment) to ensure it fits properly and distributes your weight evenly. This will also help you identify any pressure points or areas that need further adjustment.

Data Point: A study by the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) found that a significant percentage of arborist accidents involving aerial lifts were attributed to improper harness fit or failure to use a harness at all.

2. Lanyard Selection and Usage: Choosing the Right Connection

Why it Matters: Your lanyard connects you to the cherry picker’s anchor point. The wrong lanyard can create a fall hazard or fail to arrest a fall effectively.

My Experience: I once witnessed a near-miss when a lanyard that was too long allowed an arborist to swing dangerously close to a power line after a sudden movement. It was a stark reminder of the importance of choosing the correct lanyard length and type.

The Details:

• Lanyard Type: Use a shock-absorbing lanyard specifically designed for aerial lift work. These lanyards incorporate a mechanism that deploys during a fall, reducing the impact force on your body.
• Lanyard Length: Select a lanyard length that allows you to move freely within the work platform without creating excessive slack. Too much slack increases the potential fall distance.
• Anchor Point: Always attach your lanyard to the designated anchor point within the cherry picker’s platform. Never attach it to any other part of the machine.
• Swing Fall Hazard: Be aware of the potential for swing falls. If your anchor point is not directly above your work area, a fall can cause you to swing like a pendulum, potentially colliding with obstacles. Minimize swing fall hazards by positioning the cherry picker as close as possible to your work area.
• Double Lanyards: Consider using a double lanyard system (two lanyards) when transitioning between anchor points. This allows you to remain continuously connected to the cherry picker, preventing any possibility of an unprotected fall.

Data Point: ANSI Z359.14 provides detailed guidelines for the selection, use, and maintenance of personal fall arrest systems, including lanyards. Familiarize yourself with these standards to ensure compliance and safety.

3. Pre-Operational Inspection of the Cherry Picker

Why it Matters: The cherry picker itself is a complex piece of machinery. A thorough pre-operational inspection can identify potential mechanical issues that could lead to accidents.

My Experience: Years ago, I neglected to check the hydraulic fluid level on a cherry picker before starting a job. Halfway up a tall oak, the boom started to sag, leaving me stranded. It was a humbling experience that taught me the importance of meticulous pre-operational checks.

The Details:

• Hydraulic System: Check hydraulic fluid levels, hoses, and fittings for leaks. Ensure that all hydraulic functions operate smoothly and without hesitation.
• Controls: Test all controls to ensure they function properly. This includes boom elevation, rotation, and platform leveling.
• Safety Devices: Verify that all safety devices, such as emergency stop buttons and limit switches, are functioning correctly.
• Tires: Inspect tires for proper inflation and any signs of damage.
• Outriggers: If the cherry picker is equipped with outriggers, ensure they are properly deployed and stabilized before raising the platform.
• Ground Conditions: Assess the ground conditions where the cherry picker will be operating. Avoid operating on uneven or unstable surfaces.
• Power Lines: Identify and avoid all overhead power lines. Maintain a safe distance (as specified by OSHA) from power lines at all times.

Data Point: According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), contact with overhead power lines is a leading cause of fatalities in the tree care industry.

4. Communication and Spotter: Never Work Alone

Why it Matters: Working alone in a cherry picker can be extremely dangerous. A spotter on the ground can provide assistance in case of an emergency and alert you to potential hazards.

My Experience: I was once working on a tree near a busy street when a car suddenly swerved out of control. My spotter immediately sounded the horn and alerted me to the danger, allowing me to brace myself before the car crashed into the curb. Without that spotter, the outcome could have been much worse.

The Details:

• Designated Spotter: Assign a designated spotter who is trained in emergency procedures and familiar with the operation of the cherry picker.
• Clear Communication: Establish clear communication signals between the arborist in the platform and the spotter on the ground. This can include hand signals, two-way radios, or pre-arranged verbal cues.
• Emergency Procedures: Develop and practice emergency procedures, including how to lower the platform in case of a mechanical failure or medical emergency.
• Hazard Awareness: The spotter should be responsible for monitoring the surrounding environment for potential hazards, such as traffic, pedestrians, and changes in weather conditions.
• First Aid: Ensure that the spotter is trained in first aid and CPR.

Data Point: OSHA regulations require that employers provide training to employees on the hazards associated with aerial lifts and the proper procedures for safe operation.

5. Weather Conditions and Environmental Awareness

Why it Matters: Weather conditions can significantly impact the safety of cherry picker operations. Wind, rain, and lightning can all create hazardous situations.

My Experience: I’ve learned the hard way that even a seemingly mild breeze can become treacherous at height. I was once trimming branches in what I thought was a light wind, but as I ascended, the wind picked up dramatically, causing the platform to sway violently. I immediately lowered the platform and waited for the wind to subside before resuming work.

The Details:

• Wind Speed: Never operate a cherry picker in winds exceeding the manufacturer’s recommended limit. High winds can cause the platform to sway, making it difficult to control and increasing the risk of a fall.
• Rain and Ice: Avoid operating a cherry picker in rain or icy conditions. Wet or icy surfaces can make the platform slippery and reduce traction, increasing the risk of a fall.
• Lightning: Suspend operations immediately if there is lightning in the area. Lightning can strike the cherry picker, posing a serious electrocution hazard.
• Temperature Extremes: Be aware of the effects of temperature extremes on your equipment and your body. Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, while extreme cold can impair dexterity and judgment.
• Wildlife: Be aware of the presence of wildlife, such as bees, wasps, and squirrels. These animals can pose a stinging or biting hazard.
• Tree Condition: Assess the condition of the tree before starting work. Look for signs of decay, disease, or structural weaknesses that could make the tree unstable.

Data Point: The National Weather Service provides real-time weather information and forecasts that can help you assess the safety of cherry picker operations.

Beyond the Basics: Diving Deeper into Arborist Gear and Safety

While the five pro tips above cover the essentials of cherry picker harness safety, there’s always more to learn. Let’s delve into some additional aspects of arborist gear and safety practices that can further enhance your knowledge and skills.

Harness Maintenance and Storage: Extending the Lifespan of Your Gear

Why it Matters: Proper maintenance and storage are crucial for extending the lifespan of your harness and ensuring its continued effectiveness.

The Details:

The Details:

• Fall Arrest Systems: Fall arrest systems are designed to stop a fall in progress. They typically consist of a full-body harness, a shock-absorbing lanyard, and a secure anchor point.
• Fall Restraint Systems: Fall restraint systems are designed to prevent a fall from occurring in the first place. They typically consist of a full-body harness and a lanyard that is short enough to prevent the worker from reaching a fall hazard.
• Positioning Systems: Positioning systems are designed to allow workers to work hands-free while at height. They typically consist of a full-body harness and a positioning lanyard that is attached to a secure anchor point.
• Rescue Systems: Rescue systems are designed to safely retrieve a worker who has fallen and is suspended in a harness. They typically consist of a rope, a pulley system, and a descent control device.

Emergency Preparedness: Planning for the Unexpected

Why it Matters: Even with the best safety precautions, accidents can still happen. Being prepared for emergencies can make the difference between a minor incident and a serious injury.

The Details:

• Emergency Action Plan: Develop a written emergency action plan that outlines the procedures to be followed in case of an accident or medical emergency.
• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit on hand at all times. Ensure that everyone on the crew knows the location of the kit and how to use it.
• Communication Equipment: Carry communication equipment, such as two-way radios or cell phones, to allow for quick communication in case of an emergency.
• Rescue Equipment: Have rescue equipment readily available, such as a rope, a pulley system, and a descent control device.
• Training: Provide regular training to all crew members on emergency procedures and rescue techniques.

The Psychology of Safety: Cultivating a Safety-First Culture

Why it Matters: Safety is not just about equipment and procedures; it’s also about attitude and culture. A safety-first culture is one in which everyone prioritizes safety above all else.

The Details:

• Leadership Commitment: Leadership must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety. This includes providing adequate resources for safety training and equipment, and holding everyone accountable for following safety procedures.
• Employee Involvement: Encourage employee involvement in safety programs. This can include soliciting feedback on safety procedures, involving employees in safety inspections, and empowering employees to stop work if they identify a safety hazard.
• Positive Reinforcement: Recognize and reward employees who demonstrate safe work practices. This can include verbal praise, small gifts, or even public recognition.
• Continuous Improvement: Continuously review and improve safety programs. This includes analyzing accident data, identifying trends, and implementing corrective actions.
• Open Communication: Foster open communication about safety. Encourage employees to report safety hazards and concerns without fear of reprisal.

Wood Science and Arboriculture: A Deeper Connection

As arborists, our work is intimately connected to the science of wood. Understanding wood anatomy, properties, and decay processes is crucial for making informed decisions about tree care and safety.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: A Microscopic View

Why it Matters: Understanding the internal structure of wood helps us assess its strength, stability, and susceptibility to decay.

The Details:

• Cellulose: The primary structural component of wood, providing strength and rigidity.
• Lignin: A complex polymer that binds cellulose fibers together, adding stiffness and resistance to decay.
• Earlywood (Springwood): The portion of the growth ring formed during the spring, characterized by larger cells and lower density.
• Latewood (Summerwood): The portion of the growth ring formed during the summer, characterized by smaller cells and higher density.
• Heartwood: The non-living central core of the tree, often darker in color and more resistant to decay.
• Sapwood: The living outer layer of the tree, responsible for transporting water and nutrients.
• Moisture Content: The amount of water present in wood, which can significantly affect its strength, stability, and susceptibility to decay.

Decay Processes in Trees: Recognizing the Signs

Why it Matters: Identifying decay early on is crucial for preventing tree failures and ensuring the safety of people and property.

The Details:

• Fungi: The primary agents of wood decay.
• Soft Rot: A type of decay that primarily affects hardwoods, characterized by the formation of cavities within the cell walls.
• Brown Rot: A type of decay that primarily affects softwoods, characterized by the breakdown of cellulose, leaving behind a brown, crumbly residue.
• White Rot: A type of decay that affects both hardwoods and softwoods, characterized by the breakdown of both cellulose and lignin, leaving behind a bleached, spongy residue.
• Visual Indicators of Decay: Cavities, cracks, fungal fruiting bodies (mushrooms, conks), discoloration, and soft or punky wood.
• Advanced Decay Detection: Resistance drilling, sonic tomography, and other advanced techniques can be used to detect decay that is not visible from the outside.

Timber Quality and Wood Utilization: Making the Most of Fallen Trees

Why it Matters: When trees are removed, whether due to hazard or other reasons, understanding timber quality and wood utilization can help us make the most of the resource.

The Details:

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwoods are generally denser and stronger than softwoods, making them suitable for furniture, flooring, and other applications where strength and durability are required. Softwoods are generally lighter and easier to work with, making them suitable for construction, paper production, and other applications where strength is not as critical.
• Grading Timber: Timber is graded based on its appearance, strength, and freedom from defects. Higher grades of timber are more valuable and suitable for high-end applications.
• Wood Utilization Options: Firewood, lumber, mulch, wood chips, compost, and bioenergy.
• Seasoning Wood: The process of drying wood to reduce its moisture content, making it more stable and resistant to decay.
• Kiln Drying: A controlled process of drying wood in a kiln, which can significantly reduce the drying time and improve the quality of the wood.
• Air Drying: A natural process of drying wood by exposing it to the air. Air drying is slower than kiln drying but can produce wood that is more stable and less prone to cracking.

Firewood Preparation Techniques and Safety Considerations

Firewood is a valuable resource for heating homes and providing ambiance. However, preparing firewood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed.

Chainsaw Safety: The Foundation of Firewood Preparation

Why it Matters: Chainsaws are powerful tools that can cause serious injury if not used properly.

The Details:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
• Chainsaw Inspection: Inspect your chainsaw before each use, checking the chain tension, bar lubrication, and safety features.
• Starting the Chainsaw: Start the chainsaw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged.
• Cutting Techniques: Use proper cutting techniques, such as maintaining a firm grip on the chainsaw and keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground.
• Kickback: Be aware of the risk of kickback, which can occur when the tip of the chainsaw bar contacts a solid object.
• Chain Sharpening: Keep your chainsaw chain sharp to improve cutting efficiency and reduce the risk of kickback.

Wood Splitting Techniques: Manual vs. Hydraulic

Why it Matters: Splitting wood can be physically demanding and potentially dangerous. Choosing the right technique and equipment can make the job easier and safer.

The Details:

• Manual Splitting: Using an axe or maul to split wood. This is a good option for small amounts of firewood, but it can be tiring and time-consuming for larger quantities.
• Hydraulic Splitting: Using a hydraulic wood splitter to split wood. This is a faster and easier option for large quantities of firewood, but it requires the use of specialized equipment.
• Safety Considerations: Always wear eye protection and gloves when splitting wood. Use a stable splitting block and maintain a safe distance from other people.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Why it Matters: Properly seasoned firewood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke and creosote.

The Details:

• Seasoning Time: Allow firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably longer.
• Stacking Firewood: Stack firewood in a single row, off the ground, and with good air circulation.
• Covering Firewood: Cover the top of the firewood stack to protect it from rain and snow.
• Moisture Content: Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning.
• Firewood Storage: Store firewood away from your house to reduce the risk of insect infestation and fire hazards.

Project Planning and Execution: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re an arborist planning a tree removal project or a homeowner preparing for winter, proper project planning and execution are essential for safety and efficiency.

Site Assessment and Hazard Identification

Why it Matters: Identifying potential hazards before starting work is crucial for preventing accidents.

The Details:

• Overhead Hazards: Power lines, trees, and other overhead obstructions.
• Underground Hazards: Buried utilities, such as gas lines and water lines.
• Ground Conditions: Uneven terrain, unstable soil, and slippery surfaces.
• Environmental Hazards: Weather conditions, wildlife, and poisonous plants.

Equipment Selection and Maintenance

Why it Matters: Using the right equipment for the job and keeping it in good working order is essential for safety and efficiency.

The Details:

• Chainsaws: Select a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size and type of trees you will be cutting.
• Aerial Lifts: Select an aerial lift that is appropriate for the height and reach required.
• Wood Splitters: Select a wood splitter that is appropriate for the size and type of wood you will be splitting.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
• Maintenance Schedule: Follow a regular maintenance schedule for all equipment, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection.

Work Zone Control and Communication

Why it Matters: Establishing a safe work zone and maintaining clear communication are essential for preventing accidents.

The Details:

• Barriers: Use barriers, such as cones, tape, or fencing, to delineate the work zone.
• Signage: Post signs to warn people of the hazards in the work zone.
• Spotter: Assign a spotter to monitor the work zone and alert workers to potential hazards.
• Communication Signals: Establish clear communication signals between workers, such as hand signals or two-way radios.
• Emergency Procedures: Develop and practice emergency procedures, including how to evacuate the work zone in case of an accident or medical emergency.

Waste Disposal and Site Cleanup

Why it Matters: Proper waste disposal and site cleanup are essential for protecting the environment and preventing hazards.

The Details:

• Wood Disposal: Dispose of wood waste in an environmentally responsible manner, such as chipping it for mulch or composting it.
• Chemical Disposal: Dispose of chemical waste, such as oil and gasoline, according to local regulations.
• Site Cleanup: Remove all debris from the work site, including branches, leaves, and sawdust.
• Erosion Control: Implement erosion control measures to prevent soil erosion.

Case Studies and Real-World Examples

To further illustrate the importance of cherry picker harness safety and proper arborist practices, let’s examine a few case studies and real-world examples.

Case Study 1: The Near-Miss Power Line Incident

The Situation: A crew was removing a large oak tree that was growing too close to a power line. The arborist in the cherry picker was using a lanyard that was too long, which allowed him to swing dangerously close to the power line after a sudden movement.

The Outcome: Fortunately, the arborist was able to regain control of the situation and avoid contact with the power line. However, the incident served as a stark reminder of the importance of choosing the correct lanyard length and maintaining a safe distance from power lines.

The Lesson: Always choose the correct lanyard length for the job and maintain a safe distance from power lines.

Case Study 2: The Hydraulic Fluid Leak

The Situation: An arborist neglected to check the hydraulic fluid level on a cherry picker before starting a job. Halfway up a tall oak, the boom started to sag, leaving him stranded.

The Outcome: The arborist was eventually rescued, but the incident could have been much worse.

The Lesson: Always perform a thorough pre-operational inspection of the cherry picker, including checking the hydraulic fluid levels.

The Outcome: The company saw a significant reduction in accidents and injuries, as well as improved employee morale and productivity.

The Lesson: Cultivating a safety-first culture can have a positive impact on all aspects of a tree care business.

Current Industry Statistics and Data Points

To provide further context and support for the information presented in this article, let’s examine some current industry statistics and data points.

• According to OSHA, falls are a leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, including tree care.
• The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) reports that a significant percentage of arborist accidents involving aerial lifts are attributed to improper harness fit or failure to use a harness at all.
• The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) states that contact with overhead power lines is a leading cause of fatalities in the tree care industry.
• ANSI Z359.14 provides detailed guidelines for the selection, use, and maintenance of personal fall arrest systems, including lanyards.
• The National Weather Service provides real-time weather information and forecasts that can help you assess the safety of cherry picker operations.

These statistics and data points underscore the importance of prioritizing safety in all aspects of arborist work.

Conclusion: Prioritize Safety, Every Time

Working with cherry pickers and arborist gear demands respect and a commitment to safety. It’s not just about having the right equipment; it’s about using it correctly, understanding the risks, and fostering a culture where safety is paramount.

Remember those five pro tips: perfect fit, lanyard selection, pre-operational inspection, communication, and weather awareness. They’re not just guidelines; they’re the foundation of a safe work environment. And always remember, shortcuts can lead to serious consequences.

Next Steps:

1. Review your current safety practices: Identify areas where you can improve.
2. Invest in quality gear: Don’t skimp on safety equipment.
3. Get trained: Attend safety courses and stay up-to-date on the latest best practices.
4. Share your knowledge: Help others stay safe by sharing your experiences and insights.

By prioritizing safety, we can all contribute to a safer and more rewarding tree care industry. Stay safe out there!

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