2.2.5 Work positioning
In arboriculture , work positioning describes the process of moving around the tree ’ s structure and crown , as well as the techniques of using appropriate climbing systems and anchor points to achieve safe and ergonomic body positions when conducting work .
General principles of good work positioning for tree climbing include :
! Selecting good tie-in-points to reach the required parts of the tree .
! Maintaining good rope angles throughout the climb and installing secondary attachment points whenever necessary .
Tree climbing systems are work-positioning rather than fall arrest . Ropes used for both vertical rescue and tree climbing are usually semi-static and are not designed to arrest a falling climber . As such , any significant fall using tree climbing equipment may cause serious injury - even if caught by the rope .
! Following logical , sequential climb plans to reduce exertion and optimise the strengths of the selected climbing system .
Work positioning using rescue climbing systems
Arborists commonly use both MRT and SRT techniques for work positioning . For rescue climbers , it is recommended that MRT be used solely for ascent and limited movement to reach different anchor points in the crown . Whilst it is certainly possible to perform a tree rescue using MRT techniques , many familiar rescue methods will not integrate easily with this style of climbing and confusion may result .
It is recommended that rescuers secure a main and belay line at a primary anchor and use traditional rescue climbing systems to work position and perform the rescue . The remainder of this section assumes that the rescuer is climbing using a main climbing line and suitable self-belay device , with a second belay line and an auto-belay device .
The use of MRT to move around the tree introduces additional complications , for example friction at redirects , that will not be discussed in the following section .
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