Tree species and behaviour
Correct identification of tree species is important for tree workers . Different tree species behave in very different ways , and it is important to know how the tree will react when it is climbed and worked on , in addition to any hazards that are common to the species .
For rescue professionals , accurate tree identification may be impossible , and may not be required in most circumstances . If other arborists are present on site , it may be possible to ask for assistance with tree identification , and with the identification of any potential species-specific hazards .
Examples of properties of different tree species which may affect a climbing plan include :
Property
Tree structure or branches are brittle or fragile
Tree unions are naturally acute or branch structure is dense
Potential impact ( s ) on rescue plan
! Anchor point failure during access or rescue
! Broken branches causing struck-by injuries
! It may be difficult to install ropes from the ground .
! Tree access may be difficult .
Possible control measures
! Consider alternative access methods e . g . EWP .
! Ensure a suitable exclusion zone is introduced below the tree , and that workers within the exclusion zone are alert , and wearing appropriate PPE .
! Load test anchor points where possible .
! Select larger anchor points lower in the tree .
! Attach around the trunk not to individual branches .
! Consider alternative access methods e . g . EWP , alternating tie-in-points , spur climbing etc .
Tree bark or cambium may be fibrous or thick
! Branch diameters may be smaller than they appear due to the thick bark .
! Spur climbing may be difficult as spurs will not penetrate timber .
! Ensure spurs have long gaffs .
! Load test anchor points where possible .
! Select larger anchor points lower in the tree .
! Attach around the trunk not to individual branches .
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