Do you want to remove trees and stumps in your home? This job is best left in the hands of professionals. It’s not hard to imagine that tree removal can lead to all sorts of accidents. In fact, approximately 200 fatal injuries related to tree services occur each year in the United States alone. Even experts who wear the right gear and use proper equipment may end up getting hurt. This is precisely why homeowners should avoid taking on this task by themselves. In this resource, you’ll learn some safety procedures for tree removal.
The Dangers of Tree Removal
It’s important to understand the different dangers associated with tree removal services. The first is the use of power or hand tools such as chainsaws, axes, and wood chippers. These tools can inflict serious damage when used incorrectly. The slightest hint of distraction can cause the person to lose a finger or a limb. Of course, this also leads to costly medical expenses including recovery.
Tree care professionals use these power tools almost every day yet they continue to be at risk. Injuries can happen at any moment, which is why it’s important to be fully engaged in the task at hand to keep risks to a minimum. Wearing proper clothing can also be beneficial in avoiding injuries.
The tree itself poses a major threat as well. It’s possible for tree limbs to hit workers after cutting them off. The tree trunk may also hit and damage the property. There’s also the risk of falling from the tree especially when proper equipment isn’t used. And despite using the right equipment, weak limbs can lead to injuries because of inadequate support.
It’s worth noting that other elements can pose a serious risk as well. For example, some trees can be home to poisonous plants and insects. A dying tree may also have rotting wood, which presents the risk of being too unpredictable and unstable. Trees near power lines can also cause fatal injuries.
Wearing the Right Gear
All tree care professionals need to wear the right clothing from head to toe before commencing the job. The must-haves include helmet or face shield, gloves, goggles, chainsaw protective clothing, ear plugs, and work shoes.
The absence of any of the above-mentioned gear should be taken as a sign that the tree removal job shouldn’t be executed. Otherwise, the risk of injury significantly increases.
Safety Practices for Tree Removal
The environmental conditions play a huge role in ensuring that the tree removal process is done efficiently and safely. Rescheduling is a common practice especially when the wind, snow, or hail proves too strong. Planning ahead is also a must for tree removal experts. Any hazards are identified such as broken branches, dead wood, and weak limbs.
Coordinating with the utility company to make sure that the power lines are de-energized is also of utmost importance. Placing a rope to direct where the tree falls is key to ensuring that the tree itself doesn’t wreak havoc on the property.
