Health and Safety

Executive

AFAG401
Tree-climbing operations

Introduction
This leaflet includes advice for climbers on safe working practices for tree-climbing
operations and climbing procedures, and on how to use some common climbing
aids. It also includes advice on the responsibilities of ground staff.

Tree-climbing work is subject to the requirements of the Work at Height

Regulations 2005 and the guidance in this leaflet is applicable where a risk
assessment has determined that climbing is the appropriate access method to
undertake the work.

This leaflet should be read in conjunction with HSE leaflets INDG317 Chainsaws at
work and AFAG308 Top-handled chainsaws as well as the Treework webpages:
[Link]/treework/[Link]. You can use this leaflet, along with the
equipment manufacturer’s guidance, as part of your risk assessment to help
identify the controls to put in place when carrying out tree-climbing operations.

Chainsaw users and others should be particularly aware of the potential hazards of
being cut by the saw, hit by falling timber or passing vehicles, and exposure to
noise, vibration or electricity.

Remember:

■■ All work at height must be properly planned, organised and supervised.

■■ Any equipment used must be suitable for the task and inspected before use.
■■ Everyone engaged in tree-climbing operations must be competent and have
had appropriate training in all the tasks required (see training on the Treework
webpages).

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General
Carry out a risk assessment for the site as a whole, including an emergency plan, and
record the significant findings. Make sure all the people involved in any operation on the
worksite are aware of the controls identified and comply with them.

A minimum of two people should be present during all tree-climbing operations. One of
the team must be available on the ground, competent and equipped to perform an aerial
rescue immediately (see leaflet AFAG402 Aerial tree rescue).

A competent and responsible person should know the daily work programme and agree
a suitable emergency procedure with personnel on site.

All people involved with site works should be able to communicate with each other.
Where the responsible person is not on site, communication should still be possible, eg
via mobile phone.

All site personnel should contribute to job planning, raise points of concern and stop
work if something is unclear or a safety issue arises.

In some work environments, eg noisy and/or scattered sites, special measures may be
necessary to ensure good quality communication, eg two-way radios.

In case of emergency, you should be able to provide the emergency services with
adequate information, eg a grid reference, a designated meeting point, the distance from
the main road, the type of access (suitable for car/four-wheel drive/emergency service
vehicles). In urban areas, street names and postal codes are essential. Know the
location details before they are needed in an emergency (see the Treework webpages).

On all reasonably foreseeable approaches to the worksite, erect warning and prohibition
signs conforming to the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996,
indicating a hazardous worksite and that unauthorised access is prohibited. In areas of
high public access, a risk assessment may indicate that additional controls are required,
eg barrier tape, barriers or extra personnel.

Climbers not specifically trained in utility work must observe the appropriate minimum
distances for work adjacent to overhead power lines. Work may only proceed under the
authority and guidance of the appropriate electricity company (see safety topics on the
Treework webpages).

Everyone engaged in tree-climbing operations needs to be fit to undertake the task.

Problems that could affect performance must be reported to management.

Climbers should be familiar with a range of techniques to improve their efficiency and
reduce the risk of muscular and skeletal strain. Take into account physical constraints
when selecting work techniques.

Climbing is physically demanding. Climbers should warm up and stretch before starting
work. Where possible, share the climbing duties between two or more climbers.

Allow enough breaks during the work to minimise the risk of impaired judgement. In
certain conditions, eg hot weather, it may be necessary to change the work method,
climbing techniques or introduce further breaks to avoid physiological stress.

Climbers need to be aware of the different characteristics of tree species and how
these affect the work to be carried out. They should also be able to assess the
structure and condition of the tree to be climbed and any potential weakness
caused by decay and damage.

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The equipment you will need

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

While no PPE can provide 100% protection against cuts from chainsaws, when
climbing, chainsaw users should wear the following:

■■ A safety helmet (the HSE Arboriculture and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG)
recommends a mountaineering-style helmet complying with BS EN 12492).
■■ Eye protection (complying with either BS EN 1731 or BS EN 166).
■■ Hearing protection (complying with BS EN 352).
■■ Suitable gloves appropriate to the task and subject to the operator’s risk
assessment.
■■ Leg protection* and groin protection (complying with BS EN 381-5). AFAG
recommends Type C leg protection for aerial work because of the high all-
round chainsaw cut protection. However, where wearing Type C is impractical
(eg because of the higher risk of heat stress associated with it), it may be
appropriate to use Type A, where justified by risk assessment.
■■ Protective boots* with good grip and protective guarding at front vamp and
instep (complying with BS EN ISO 20345).
■■ Non-snag outer clothing. The use of high-visibility clothing may also be
appropriate.

Climbers not using a chainsaw should wear the following:

■■ A safety helmet (AFAG recommends a mountaineering-style helmet complying

with BS EN 12492).
■■ Protective boots* with good grip and ankle support (complying with BS EN ISO
20345).
■■ Non-snag outer clothing. The use of high-visibility clothing may also be
appropriate.
■■ Suitable gloves, appropriate to the task and subject to the operator’s risk
assessment.

As a minimum, climbers should carry a personal first-aid kit, incorporating a large

wound dressing, barrier gloves, plasters and a whistle.

Climbers may carry a knife with either a lockable folding blade or a fixed blade held
in a protective sheath.

Hand-cleaning materials such as waterless skin cleanser or soap, water and paper
towels should be readily available.

All equipment

All new climbing equipment should be sold with evidence of conformity with the
relevant BS EN standard, and carry a relevant CE mark. No structural alterations
* These items should bear the should be made to any item.
chainsaw logo. See Treework
webpages [Link]/ All items of fall-protection equipment should be used according to the
treework/safety-topics/ manufacturer’s instructions. Climbing equipment should only be used for its
[Link]. intended purpose.

Personal fall-protection systems should be put together by a competent person to

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ensure that each component and the system is appropriate for the service conditions
and is correctly configured and compatible with neighbouring components.

Manufacturer’s guidance should be followed when determining the typical lifespan

of equipment. If the user is at any point unsure about a component, it should be
removed from service and inspected by a competent person.

Work-positioning system

A work-positioning sit harness for tree climbing should have a pelvic attachment
point and leg loop straps (to BS EN 813 and BS EN 358). Some models are also
fitted with shoulder straps.

Work-positioning equipment supports the climber when working in the tree. It is

designed to be used only in situations when the fall-protection system is under
tension or any potential fall is limited to a short distance.

When using work-positioning techniques, do not climb more than 250mm above your
anchor point. Keep the climbing rope taut. Ensure any slack does not exceed 500mm.

Adjustable lanyards

Climbers need to carry an adjustable lanyard to provide, when appropriate, a

secondary anchor to prevent the risk of pendulum swing. Lanyards are a key part of
a tree-climbing system and have many uses, particularly as a supplementary load-
bearing anchor point when working in the crown or when changing anchor points.

Lanyards need to be adjustable to provide sufficient support to the climber.

The side attachment points on a harness are designed for support (eg where the
feet are on a branch or other part of the tree) but not suspension. Some harnesses
provide forward attachment points suitable for suspension. It is important to consult
the manufacturer’s instructions for the harness.

Do not attach the lanyard to one side alone.

Fall-arrest systems

A fall-arrest system comprises an anchor point, a full-body harness, and a method

of connection between the anchor point and the harness that incorporates a
deceleration device (energy absorber).

Fall-arrest equipment is not commonly used in aerial tree work but may be
appropriate, eg in unusual circumstances where climbers have to work above their
anchor point. The extension of an energy absorber and the dangers of striking parts
of the tree in a fall as well as the difficulties of achieving ergonomically acceptable
work positions should be considered as part of the risk assessment.

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Climbing ropes

Select ropes to provide a high margin of safety. Ropes suitable for tree climbing
need to have a minimum diameter of 10mm and are not normally larger than
14mm. When selecting a rope, carefully consider the compatibility of any friction
hitches or mechanical devices used.

Friction hitches

Ensure that rope or cord used for friction hitches is of a suitable type and has a
minimum diameter of 8mm. Consider the fibre type and cord diameter, as this will
have a significant impact on heat, abrasion resistance, knot-tying characteristics
and working life.

Climbers need to ensure that the friction cord selected is compatible with the
climbing line. A diameter of 10mm is recommended for normal commercial use.

Friction hitch materials are subject to high levels of wear. They should be inspected
regularly, with wear rates compared to manufacturer’s guidelines and replaced if
significant wear is found.

Inspect climbing hitches thoroughly before, after and, if necessary, during each use.

Climbers need to be aware of the characteristics of each friction hitch they use and
how they perform in combination with other components, eg a micro pulley.

The climbing system used needs to brake reliably and support the climber.

Knots and splices

Climbers need to know the characteristics and scope of application of any knot used.

Tie, dress and correctly set each knot and monitor carefully during use.

Splices need to be made by someone competent to splice, eg the manufacturer.

Competence should be demonstrable for each rope type.

Karabiners

Each karabiner used to connect the harness to a lifeline needs to have a spring-
loaded self-locking gate that requires at least three distinct movements to open it.

There is a wide range of connectors that function using this type of mechanism. It
is vital that the most appropriate type is used for each specific application.

Ensure karabiners are loaded correctly. It is essential that they are kept in correct
alignment. Secure climbing line and friction cord to the karabiner so that it is
unlikely to misalign or come into contact with the gate mechanism. Use an
appropriate rope termination and/or a rope-holding accessory such as a plastic fast
or rubber sleeve.

Karabiners should not be ‘chain linked’ as this can easily lead to twisting and
associated pressure on the gate.

Figure 1 Karabiner loading

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Inspect karabiners carefully and maintain before and after use.

Monitor karabiners during use. The gate mechanism is susceptible to dirt build-up
that can affect its function.

Clean the mechanism using soapy water followed by flushing with compressed air
after drying. Lubrication may also be necessary (see manufacturer’s
recommendations).

Check the mechanism function by opening the gate 10mm and applying light
rotational pressure to the barrel to bias the mechanism towards the karabiner nose.
Carefully rest the gate onto the karabiner nose and release. The gate should return
automatically to the locking position.

NB: The gate must function correctly and reliably before use.

Ladders

Check ladders for defects before use (refer to the manufacturer’s instructions). See
‘Further reading’ for more advice.

Ladders are normally only used as a means of access into the crown of the tree.
Once the climber is secured to the tree by rope/lanyard and harness, the ladder
should be removed.

Position the base of the ladder at a distance approximately one-quarter the height
of the ladder, away from a vertical line dropped from the point of contact with the
tree. The unsupported part of the ladder must not touch any obstructions, even
when loaded with the climber’s weight.

Incorporate a non-slip or stabilising base on the ladder and secure the ladder
appropriately, either by attaching a rope from the tree to the ladder base or by
having a member of the ground staff foot the ladder.

Where possible, pre-install a climbing line to safeguard the ladder ascent. If this is
not possible, the climber needs to be secured to the tree before leaving the top of
the ladder, or carrying out any other work.

Pre-use inspection

Climbers need to check all equipment for excessive wear, damage or defects
before use. Interim inspections of equipment subject to high levels of wear and tear
need to be recorded, and climbing equipment should be ‘thoroughly examined’ by
a ‘competent person’ every six months (see ‘Further reading’ for more information).

Withdraw defective equipment from use and destroy it, or mark it in such a way
that it cannot be used by mistake.

Keep safety equipment and protective clothing clear of cutting tools, fuel, chemicals
and any other potential hazards at all times while on site, and during storage or
transit, to avoid damage through contamination.

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Storage

Check, maintain and store all tree-climbing equipment in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. Dry wet equipment thoroughly before storage, eg in a
well-ventilated environment away from any direct heat source.

Preparing to climb
Using climbing irons

When using climbing irons, the climber needs to be secured to the tree with a
climbing rope and/or a lanyard. Climbers using a chainsaw on an upright stem to
which their primary anchor is attached should use a steel core adjustable flip line
positioned above their climbing line.

Only connect the climbing line and/or adjustable lanyard/flip line to approved
climbing attachment points on the harness. If attached centrally, ensure that the
karabiner(s) is not subjected to inappropriate loading. When using the lanyard from
the side D-rings, take care to avoid the karabiner gates contacting objects and
‘rolling’ open.

Check that the climbing line and the steel core adjustable flip line are not at risk of
being cut by the chainsaw.

Anchor points

Assess the tree as a whole to ensure the structure is safe to climb. Climbers need
to be trained in how to select safe anchor points.

Figure 2 Section felling The choice of anchor involves assessing its strength and suitability in relation to its
using spikes intended purpose. When a climbing system has been installed from the ground,
test the anchor point using the weight of at least two people. It may be necessary
to use binoculars to assess high anchors in some situations.

A main anchor in the tree needs to be strong enough to withstand both the lateral
(ie sideways) force and downward loading encountered during climbing operations
and in the event of a fall or pendulum swing.

If in doubt about the strength or suitability of a branch to be used as an anchor, it

may be appropriate to pass the climbing rope, adjustable lanyard, or false anchor
around the main stem, above the anchor branch.

When working in the top of the tree, it may be necessary to carry out work above
the main anchor point. Supplementary anchor point(s) can be attached above the
main anchor to give temporary support for work in a small area of the crown. In this
situation, ensure that the supplementary anchor(s) is adequate and subjected to
minimal lateral loading.

Use supplementary anchors, unless the risk assessment identifies the need for the
climber to be able to move freely, for example, where there is a risk of a cut section
striking the climber.

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Working in the tree

Ascent

When using rope advance techniques, ie ascending by climbing from one branch to
the next while advancing fall-protection systems, the climber needs to be securely
attached to at least one suitable anchor point at all times by means of a climbing
rope and/or safety strop(s) and harness.

When changing anchor points, climbers should transfer their weight to the newly
established rope system before releasing the original system. Climbers need to
ensure that before releasing the previous system, the new system and anchor have
been thoroughly checked and tested.

Where possible, ensure that access lines are configured so that, if required, a
climber could be lowered to the ground.

Movement within the tree

Climbers must be securely attached to the tree. The work-positioning system must
be kept as taut as possible. Climbers should check their position in relation to the
anchor point and ensure that a climbing line is not snagged on a weak shoot or
dead branch which may give way.

Avoid the potential for a pendulum swing by the appropriate installation of redirects,
supplementary anchors and the repositioning and/or sharing of anchor points.

Using equipment

Ground staff need to transfer equipment to the climber using the climbing line or a
separate tool line. Equipment should be attached so it does not damage the rope.

In many instances, tree-pruning work can be safely and efficiently carried out using
handsaws, eliminating chainsaw hazards, eg noise, vibration, fumes and difficulties
with communication. However, as risks of cut injury can be high, particularly to the
hand holding the material being cut, consider wearing protective gloves.

Chainsaws need to be checked, started, warmed up and turned off by a member

of the ground staff before being passed up to the climber.

Use chainsaws of an appropriate size and configuration for the material being cut in
the tree. The chainsaw should be started and operated in the tree in an approved
manner (see Chainsaws at work and Top-handled chainsaws).

Where the operation dictates that a larger rear-handled chainsaw is required, the
method of use should be carefully considered, eg the starting and work position
and control of the saw.

When removing sections from the tree, climbers need to check their work position
in relation to the anchor point.

Ensure that climbing lines are not snagged on a weak shoot or dead branch that
may give way. Keep climbing lines clear from falling debris.

Climbers and ground staff need to be aware of risks from falling debris or equipment.

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Descent

Before descent, climbers need to check that the climbing system is of a suitable
length to complete the planned descent.

Terminate the climbing system in such a way that it is not possible for the adjuster
to run off the end of the rope, eg using a stopper knot or bulky stitched termination.

Plan the route for descent to take into account the position of tools and
equipment and how the rope(s), friction saver etc will be retrieved once climbers
are on the ground.

Climbers need to descend to the ground in a controlled manner to avoid the

excessive build-up of heat that could damage PPE components. Ensure that
anchor devices are also lowered in a controlled manner.

Responsibilities of ground staff

Plan the job with the climber(s) before the work starts and be aware of the task(s)
involved. On busy sites consider dedicating a specific member of the ground staff
to each climber.

Maintain effective communication with climbers at all times.

Maintain concentration and watch the climbers. Anticipate their needs, passing up
tools and other equipment when required.

Keep climbing and work ropes on the ground free of knots, kinks, tangles, branch
wood and clear of machinery. Keep ropes in safe positions, eg away from
obstructions, vehicles, equipment and the public.

Ensure the precautions taken to exclude the public and traffic from the work area
are maintained while work is in progress.

Keep tools and equipment that are not in use away from the immediate work area.

Control working ropes, but do not wrap a rope around any part of the body to gain
extra grip or purchase.

Continually assess the operation and modify the work plan and risk assessment as
necessary. If at any stage you are unsure, stop the work in progress and re-assess
the operation.

Where possible, share the workload with the climber(s).

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Further reading
The Work at Height Regulations 2005: A brief guide Leaflet INDG401(rev1)
HSE Books 2007 [Link]/pubns/[Link]

Chainsaws at work Leaflet INDG317(rev2) HSE Books 2012

[Link]/pubns/[Link]

Top-handled chainsaws Leaflet AFAG308(rev2) HSE Books 2013

[Link]/pubns/[Link]

Treework webpages [Link]/treework/[Link]

Aerial tree rescue Leaflet AFAG402 HSE Books 2013

[Link]/pubns/[Link]

Safety signs and signals. The Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals)
Regulations 1996. Guidance on Regulations L64 (Second edition) HSE Books 2009
[Link]/pubns/books/[Link]

Safe use of ladders and stepladders: An employers’ guide Leaflet INDG402

HSE Books 2005 [Link]/pubns/[Link]

First aid at work: Your questions answered Leaflet INDG214(rev1) HSE Books 2009
[Link]/pubns/[Link]

Using work equipment safely Leaflet INDG229(rev2) HSE Books 2012

[Link]/pubns/[Link]

Noise: Don’t lose your hearing! Leaflet INDG363(rev2) HSE Books 2012
[Link]/pubns/[Link]

A toolbox talk on leaning ladder and stepladder safety Leaflet INDG403

HSE Books 2005 [Link]/pubns/[Link]

Top tips for ladder and stepladder safety Pocket card INDG405
HSE Books 2005 [Link]/pubns/[Link]

Thorough examination of lifting equipment: A simple guide for employers Leaflet

INDG422 HSE Books 2008 [Link]/pubns/[Link]

A guide to good climbing practice Arboricultural Association 2009 [Link]

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Further information
For information about health and safety, or to report inconsistencies or inaccuracies
in this guidance, visit [Link]. You can view HSE guidance online and
order priced publications from the website. HSE priced publications are also
available from bookshops.

This guidance is issued by the Health and Safety Executive. Following the guidance
is not compulsory, unless specifically stated, and you are free to take other action.
But if you do follow the guidance you will normally be doing enough to comply with
the law. Health and safety inspectors seek to secure compliance with the law and
may refer to this guidance.

This document is available at [Link]/pubns/[Link].

© Crown copyright If you wish to reuse this information visit

[Link]/[Link] for details. First published 02/09.

Published by the Health and Safety Executive 04/13 AFAG401(rev2) Page 11 of 11