Protect workers from falling tree limbs: New safety alert

Boston — “A future with more frequent and severe storms” has heightened the urgency for protecting workers from injuries caused by falling tree limbs, a new safety alert states.

Published by the Massachusetts State Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program, the alert states that trees, logs and limbs have killed an average of 140 workers annually over the past five years. It suggests that climate change patterns “may result in a need for more storm cleanup work.”

Focused mainly on the tree care industry, the alert features a case study and links to additional resources. It also includes the following tips:

• Assess the worksite for falling object hazards.
• Determine if rigging is necessary, and make sure workers use it safely.
• Establish drop zones if falling objects are a hazard.
• Set up a visual or verbal communication system between overhead workers and ground workers.
• Provide workers with personal protective equipment, and ensure its proper use through training and supervision.

Employers should also provide training on procedures and hazards for entering a drop zone, as well as on emergency procedures, “including the retreat path for ground workers so they can escape from falling trees.”