Line Clearance Tree Trimming

Purpose

This section is intended to provide guidance to all District employees that engage in Line Clearance tree trimming and general vegetation management which may include trimming, removing, or clearing trees and to ensure our workgroups are equipped with the necessary information and tools to safely complete tasks as outlined inWAC 296-45 Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution .

Applicability

This section is applicable to all employees who engage in trimming, removing, or clearing trees. Including Line Clearance tree trimming within 10’ of a primary.

Responsibilities

This section of the Accident Prevention Manual (APM) is meant to be used in conjunction with other applicable sections of this APM as outlined in the Training and Resources section below. Line Clearance Tree Trimming Crews have additional responsibilities as outlined in Line Clearance Tree Crew Responsibilities section below.

Employee Responsibilities

Understand and work in accordance with the following WACs:

Current on all required training, including Tree Top Rescue and Bucket Rescue. All employees whose duties require them to work near energized wires, use chain saws or climb trees shall take an approved course in controlling bleeding and CPR and be capable of aerial rescue and remain proficient in its application (see Learning Central).

Line Clearance Tree Crew Responsibilities

In addition to the Employee Responsibilities noted above Line Clearance Tree Crews have additional responsibilities specific to WAC 296-45-455 Line-clearance tree-trimming operations.

Conduct and document daily tailboards and when conditions change.
Close inspection shall be made by the employee and foreman before climbing, entering, or working around any tree, to determine whether an electrical power conductor passes through the tree, or passes within reaching distance of any employee working in the tree.
A competent person/Journeyman, properly experienced in the type of work, shall be placed in charge of felling and bucking operations. Inexperienced workers shall not be allowed to fell timber or buck logs unless working under the direct supervision of an experienced worker.
Employees engaged in trimming, removing, or clearing trees from lines shall be required to consider all overhead electrical power conductors to be energized until such energized lines have been de-energized and grounded in accordance with District policy and WAC 296-45.
Where tree work is performed by employees qualified in Line Clearance tree trimming and trainees qualified in Line Clearance tree trimming, the clearance from energized conductors given in Table 2 of WAC 296-45-325 Working on or near exposed energized parts, minimum approach distances shall apply.

Link to: Line Clearance Tree Trimming FAQs

Manager Responsibilities

It is the expectation that managers would ensure the following tasks are being met:

Applicable employees are familiar with and working in compliance with the above-mentioned WACs.
All required and recommended trainings are assigned and completed by employee.

Safety Department Responsibilities

Assist with review of equipment and PPE as necessary.
Participate in risk assessments, process review and management implementation.
Monitor and communicate compliance updates and review and revise guidance as needed.

Tools

This section is intended to be used in conjunction with the Tools-Portable Power and Manual section of this APM.

Tools should only be used for their intended purpose and in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. WAC 296-807-14005 Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Hand and Portable Power Tools

Per WAC 296-45-285 Hand, and portable powered tools

Only tools supplied by the District shall be used.
The employer (District) shall ensure that each tool is inspected before initial use during each work shift. At a minimum, the inspection shall include the following:
- Handles and guards, to ensure that they are sound, tight-fitting, properly shaped, free of slinters and sharp edges, and are in place.
- Controls, to ensure proper function.
- Cutting edges, to ensure that they are sharp and properly shaped.
- Tools are free from excessive dirt before use.
- All other safety devices, to ensure that they are in place and function.
The cutting edge of each tool shall be sharpened in accordance with the manufacturer’s specification whenever it becomes dull during the work shift.
Each tool shall be properly stored in the provided location when not being used at a work site.
Racks, boxes, holsters or other means shall be provided, arranged and used for the transportation of tools so that a hazard is not created for any vehicle operator or passenger.
All tools shall be kept in good working condition. Defective tools shall be taken out of service

Portable and Vehicle-Mounted Generators

Per WAC 296-45-285(3) Hand, and portable powered tools

Portable and vehicle-mounted generators used to supply cord-and plug-connected equipment must meet the following requirements:

The generator may only supply equipment located on the generator or the vehicle and cord- and plug-connected equipment through receptacles mounted on the generator or the vehicle.
The noncurrent-carrying metal parts of equipment and the equipment grounding conductor terminals of the receptacles must be bonded to the generator frame.
In the case of vehicle-mounted generators, the frame of the generator must be bonded to the vehicle frame.

Any neutral conductor must be bonded to the generator frame.

Hydraulic Tools

Per WAC 296-45-285(4) Hand, and portable powered tools

Hydraulic tools must meet the following requirements:

Safe operating pressures for hydraulic and pneumatic tools, hoses, valves, pipes, filters, and fittings must not be exceeded.
- Note: If any hazardous defects are present, no operating pressure would be safe, and the hydraulic or pneumatic equipment involved may not be used. In the absence of defects, the maximum rated operating pressure is the maximum safe pressure.
A hydraulic or pneumatic tool used where it may contact exposed live parts must use nonconductive hoses and be designed and maintained for such use.
The hydraulic system supplying a hydraulic tool used where it may contact exposed live parts must provide protection against loss of insulating value for the voltage involved due to the formation of a partial vacuum in the hydraulic line.
Employees cannot use any part of their bodies to locate or attempt to stop a hydraulic leak.
Only approved fluid can be used and safe operating pressure shall not be exceeded.

Power Chain Saws

Per WAC 296-45-295 Gasoline engine power chain saws

The chain saw must be operated and adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

The employer (District) must ensure that each chain saw is inspected before initial use during each work shift. At a minimum, the inspection must include the following:
- Chain-saw chains, to assure proper adjustment
- Chain-saw mufflers, to assure that they are operational and in place
- Chain brakes to assure that they are in place and function properly
The chain saw must be fueled at least 10 feet (3 m) from any open flame or other source of ignition.
The chain saw must be started at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling area.
The chain saw must be started on the ground or where otherwise firmly supported. Drop-starting a chain saw is prohibited.
The chain saw must be started with the chain brake engaged
The chain saw must be held with the thumbs and fingers of both hands encircling the handles during operation unless the employer demonstrates that a greater hazard is posed by keeping both hands on the chain saw in that particular situation.
The chain-saw operator must be certain of footing before starting to cut. The chain saw must not be used in a position or at a distance that could cause the operator to become off-balance, to have insecure footing, or to relinquish a firm grip on the saw.
Prior to felling any tree, the chain saw operator must clear away brush or other potential obstacles which might interfere with cutting the tree or using the retreat path.
The chain saw must not be used to cut directly overhead.
The chain saw must be carried in a manner that will prevent operator contact with the cutting chain and muffler.
The chain saw must be shut off before the feller starts their retreat.
The chain saw must be shut down or the chain brake must be engaged whenever a saw is carried further than 50 feet (15.2 m). The chain saw must be shut down or the chain brake must be engaged when a saw is carried less than 50 feet if conditions such as, but not limited to, the terrain, underbrush and slippery surfaces, may create a hazard for an employee.
- Note: When an employee working aloft in trees when supported by climbing spurs and climbing belt, or when an employee is working from a vehicle mounted elevating and rotating work platform meeting the requirements of chapter 296-869 WAC, Elevating work platforms, leg protection covering the full length of the thigh to the top of the boot on each leg to protect against contact with a moving chain saw is not required.
Each power saw weighing more than 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms, service weight) that is used in trees must be supported by a separate line, except when work is performed from an aerial lift and except during topping or removing operations where no supporting limb will be available, and the following:
- Each power saw must be equipped with a control that will return the saw to idling speed when released.
- Each power saw must be equipped with a clutch and must be so adjusted that the clutch will not engage the chain drive at idling speed.
- A power saw shall be started on the ground or where it is otherwise firmly supported.
- Drop starting of saws over 15 pounds (6.8 kg) is permitted outside of the bucket of an aerial lift only if the area below the lift is clear of personnel.
- A power saw engine may be started and operated only when all employees other than the operator are clear of the saw.
- A power saw cannot be running when the saw is being carried up into a tree by an employee.
- Power saw engines must be stopped for all cleaning, refueling, adjustments, and repairs to the saw or motor, except as the manufacturer's servicing procedures require otherwise.
When using a chain saw while working in a lifeline, a ballistic cover must be installed on each side of the lifeline or a double lifeline must be used.

Insulated Tools Used for Tree Trimming

Per WAC 296-45-305 Live-line tools

The District tests insulated tools once per year or anytime the condition of the tool is questioned.

Design of tools. Live-line tool rods, tubes, and poles must be designed and constructed to withstand the following minimum tests:
- 100,000 volts per foot (3281 volts per centimeter) of length for 5 minutes if the tool is made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP).
- 75,000 volts per foot (2461 volts per centimeter) of length for 3 minutes if the tool is made of wood.
- Other tests that the employer can demonstrate are equivalent.
Condition of tools:
- Each live-line tool must be wiped clean and visually inspected for defects before use each day.
- If any defect or contamination that could adversely affect the insulating qualities or mechanical integrity of the live-line tool is present after wiping, the tool must be removed from service and examined and tested according to WAC before being returned to service.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

This section is intended to be used in conjunction with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) section of this APM.

Employees shall wear no less than a short-sleeved shirt and long pants. Full-length Cat 2 FR rated clothing must be worn when trimming near energized lines. Full length Cat 2 FR must be worn when working within 15’ of an energized source. See Arc Flash Program section of this APM for more information.

When gloves are worn, they should NOT have flared cuffs.

Per WAC 296-45-25505 (3) Personal Protective Equipment Goggles, hearing protection, respirators, rubber gloves, and other such personal protective devices must not be interchanged among employees unless they have been sanitized.

Per WAC 296-155-211 Leg Protection Employees whose duties require them to operate a power chain saw must wear flexible ballistic nylon pads, sewn or otherwise fastened into the trousers, or other equivalent protection that will protect the vulnerable areas of the legs.

Per WAC 296-155-212 Foot Protection Substantial footwear, made of leather or other equally firm material, must be worn by employees in any occupation in which there is a danger of injury to the feet through falling or moving objects, or from burning, scalding, cutting, penetration, or like hazard.

Calks or other suitable footwear, which will afford reasonable protection from slipping, must be worn while working on logs, poles, pilings, or similar forest products.

Climbing Procedures

Workers shall comply with the Safety Requirements for Arboricultural Operations manual (ANSI Z133).

Climbers should not climb or work from utility poles.

All climbing equipment shall meet industry standards.

Tree Falling/Trimming/Bucking/Limbing

This section is based on best practices as outlined ANSI Z133-2017 and WAC 296-54-539 Falling and bucking-General , and is intended to be used in conjunction with other applicable sections of this APM.

Link to: Line Clearance Tree Trimming FAQs

Safe Handling of Branches and Overhead Material

Before cutting or causing any branch or section of wood to fall, the climber must ensure the drop zone below is clear of personnel, equipment, and other hazards.

Pre-Felling and Pre-Bucking Hazard Assessment

Per WAC 296-54-539 (see link above)

Before beginning any felling or bucking operation, the cutter must survey the tree and surrounding area for hazards such as decay or rot in the trunk, objects that could impede or redirect the fall, and the tree’s shape, balance, and lean.

A cutter must proceed using established safe work practices once hazards are identified and mitigated.

Personnel Safety Around Felling Operations

Per WAC 296-54-539 (see link above)

Employees shall not approach a feller within the reach of trees being felled unless the feller has given or acknowledged a clear signal indicating it is safe to do so.

Required Equipment for Fellers and Buckers

Per WAC 296-54-539 (see link above)

All fellers and buckers must have on their person or in near proximate at all times:

An ax or suitable tool for driving wedges
A minimum of two wedges
A first-aid kit

Traffic Control When Dropping Branches Near Roadways

Per WAC 296-155-305 Signaling and flaggers

When branches or debris are being dropped onto or near an active roadway, appropriate traffic control measures must be implemented. A trained and qualified flagger shall be used when necessary to safely manage vehicle flow.

Controlled Cutting and Rigging of Branches

Branches must be cut into sizes that can be safely handled by the climber or bucket operator.

When there is uncertainty regarding control of a branch, a rope must be used to support, guide, or lower it safely.

When branches are being roped out of a tree, rigging systems must be configured to prevent violent, uncontrolled, or unexpected movement during removal.

Wind Force and Direction

At no time shall fellers work if wind is strong enough to prevent the falling of trees in the desired direction or if vision is impaired. Monitor for dangerous wind conditions. Suspend aerial work when sustained winds reach 25 mph.

Where it will fall, special attention shall be given to the proximity of electric conductors. Whenever the tree could possibly reach a conductor when it falls, it shall be topped or cut back so that it cannot contact it, or a rope shall be used.

If a rope is used, those handling the rope on the ground shall be stationed well beyond the possible reach of the tree at least a distance equal to one and one-half (1-1/2) times the height of the tree.

Multiple lead trees shall be felled individually.

Prior to any cuts being started by the saw operator, the foreman or person in charge shall establish that the saw operator has a clear unobstructed ESCAPE PATH which shall be used as soon as the tree or snag is committed to fall, roll or slide.

Be sure each crew member knows what to do. Those not directly involved shall be kept in the clear.

The public shall be kept clear of the operation (a distance equal to at least twice the height of the tree).

Cutting Standards- Undercut (Notch)

Before starting the undercut give an audible warning.

The notch should be made in exactly the intended direction of the fall

The depth of the notch should be approximately one-third of the tree’s diameter.

Cutting Standards-Back Cut (Finish Cut)

Before starting the back cut, give another audible warning understood by all crew members.

The back cut must be placed several inches above the undercut to prevent kickback.

The cut must be smooth and even; holding wood should be preserved equally unless intentionally adjusting tree direction.

If the tree settles on the saw, wedge it carefully using only wedges—never an axe or steel tool.

Before completing the back cut, stop and visually verify everyone is in the clear.

If the saw binds or is dropped, leave it and move to safety. Watch for flying limbs and limbs which may be knocked from adjacent or nearby trees.

Prohibited Practices

“Ripping” or “slicing” cuts (no notch or proper undercut) on trees over 10" diameter are strictly prohibited.

Cutting limbs that prop or support a log must not be done unless the movement of the log can be fully controlled.

Limbing, Bucking, and Working Position

Stand on the uphill side of the work whenever practical. If needed, block the tree to prevent rolling.

Maintain solid footing free of tripping hazards.

Anticipate wood movement before each cut.

To prevent saw binding, slope cuts to open as the wood drops, block the piece, or use a wood or soft wedge.

Use a cant hook to roll large logs.

Just before the tree starts to fall, give another audible warning that each crew member will understand.

Get clear of the tree.

Equipment

Chippers Operation

When the chipper is running, the operator and all others involved in the chipping operation shall wear eye protection and hearing protection within twenty-five (25) feet of the chipper.

Gauntlet-type gloves and loose clothing shall not be worn by a chipper operator.

Small pieces of brush or wood shall be pushed through the chipper with a stick or branch, never by using your hands, feet, a rake, or pruner pole.

The chipper shall always be fed from the back corner, or side of the feed table never from directly behind the center portion of the feed table. As the brush or wood is taken into the blades, the operator shall immediately turn away from the feed table to avoid being struck by whipping branches.

No part of the body shall ever be placed on the feed table while the chipper is running.

All persons shall be kept clear of the exhaust chute when the chipper is running.

The engine, particularly the manifold and exhaust area, shall be kept free of chips and sawdust to prevent fire.

When there is a fire hazard, do not operate the equipment in high, dry weeds or grass without first clearing this growth from the motor and exhaust area.

The chipper ignition shall be locked and the key removed whenever the unit is left unattended.

A chipper shall never be operated without proper belt guards in place.

Under no circumstances shall any part of the body be placed under the belt guards unless the unit is fully stopped with the motor at rest.

A trailer chipper shall not be hitched or unhitched from a truck without sufficient help.

Before any trailer chipper is towed on a public roadway, the hitch safety chain and electrical connections shall be properly attached with the chain crossed under the tow bar.

A parked, unhitched trailer chipper shall have both main wheels blocked or chocked to prevent rolling.

The chipper operator shall not work under a tree which is being trimmed.

No one shall ride or carry equipment on the feed table or any other part of the chipper when moving the equipment.

Working Safely With Tools

Ladders

This section is intended to be used in conjunction with the Ladder Safety section of this APM.

Only ladders issued by the District shall be used and said ladder shall be inspected prior to each use.

Ropes

This section is intended to be used in conjunction with the Rope, Cable, and Rigging section of this APM.

The ropes used by tree trimmers are bought especially for tree work. No other ropes shall be used.

Each climber will have and use their own climbing rope.

In no case shall a hand line ever be used as a climber’s line.

Ropes shall be regularly inspected, which includes each day prior to use for:

Breaks or cuts in outside fibers.
Excessive wear, with particular attention to the tail and replaced if damaged.
The inside fibers of the rope should be reasonably bright and clean. If they are dull and dirty looking, the rope should be replaced.
The climber’s line shall be terminated with an approved, life support rated connector or factory spliced eye, used in accordance with manufacturer instructions and industry accepted arboricultural practices.
When knots are used for termination, they shall be appropriate for life support, properly dressed, secured, and inspected prior to use.

Ropes shall be coiled or bagged for storage.

Ropes shall not be stored or brought in contact with sharp-edged tools, equipment or any other objects or material that might damage them.

Ropes shall be kept clean.

Kinks shall be “turned” out of a rope - not pulled or stretched.

Aerial Manlifts

See Mechanical Equipment including Aerial Manlifts section of this APM.

Uncompleted Jobs

Uncompleted jobs left after working hours:

All brush and debris which present a hazard shall be cleaned up before leaving the job. If this is not possible, adequate barricades and warning lights shall be provided. Contact your foreman.
Ropes should not be left in trees. If ropes must be left in a tree at any time the crew leaves the job, they shall be tied off sufficiently high in the tree to prevent access for people on the ground.

Once a cut has been started it must be finished.

Tree Top Rescue and Bucket Rescue

Employees must attend and be proficient Tree Top and Bucket Rescue Training annually. See Pole Top, Tower, Tree, Bucket Rescue section of this APM.

Training and Resources

Required training, but not limited to Pole/Tree Top Rescue, Hand and Power Tool Safety, First Aid CPR, and an approved course in controlling bleeding (Stop the Bleed) can be assigned to applicable employee’s learning plans through Learning Central.

Other applicable sections of this Accident Prevention Manual are:

Rope, Cable, and Rigging
Mechanical Equipment Including Aerial Manlifts
Pole Top, Tower, Tree, Bucket Rescue
Fall Protection Program
Tools - Portable Power and Manual
PPE
Hearing Conservation Program
Arc Flash