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View Full Version : Cert 11/111 Hort(Arborculture) Whatdoyoureckon?



TomS
02-03-2012, 10:59 PM
I I do lawns and gardening, but find myself doing more and more tree work, but I am very much self taught. I have read a few books and had some instruction from orchardists and can normally bluff my way along, but have been thinking of doing a TAFE course in aboriculture a day a week. TAFE offer a cert 111 and IV- the first takes a year, the second 3 years.

The cert 111 looks more fun but if I did the IV perhaps I'd be set up for tree assessments and planning etc. I'm 47 YO so wouldn't mind making a quid out of the intelligent side of it down the track.

Wouldn't mind going along with one of you tree guys if you need someone!

Really like some advice on the quals. Thanks Fellas.

Tom

happymowin
03-03-2012, 05:59 AM
i dont do tree work like that, and im certainly not qualified,

but if you find it fun, and it interests you, and you cna make good dough from it down the track, my opinion (if you want it lol) would be to go for it, tom

having that qualification cant hurt, its only a night? a week, go for it mate

its gotta make you SOME extra dough

ive often thought of doing a pest controllers course - i nearly got a subby job for one of the possum guys here in brissie - where they put you through the pest courses - still think about doing the course.


find out morea bout em, see what each cert gets you qualified for.

the more info you have to make your decision the better.



it cant make you LESS money to have the qual.

hope i helped

cheers

Treecat
03-03-2012, 09:24 AM
sign up over at www.treeworld.info/ (and even treebuzz's articles sections its good read) and do some reading/ask some questions.

I would not bother with a cert 2(as in your title) as its a waste a time(you probably already know it all anyway) even if you plan to go onto a cert 3 or 4.

Fred's mowing
03-03-2012, 09:47 AM
Tom, go to the tree forum for more insight.
At 47, u'd want to be gettin into the management side of things more in that game.
Also the startup captital will be considerable.
To do it safely, u'll need at least an offsider, most crews r 3-4 or more.
Insurance is high as u would expect.
If u start doing the real big stuff, quals would be highly recommended, u simply gotta know what your doing.
I think that it would be great to start out as an employee whilst doing the certificate.
It would be great to get the hands on, not just the theory without all the responsibility.
Obviously rigging large trees over buildings is 4 the experts only.
You could start outdoing the smaller stuff (if there's a market for that), & build up to the bigger stuff whilst doing the ticket.
We do trees to a certain height/difficulty, then I pass them to my neighbour (pro tree company) who do the lot.
You've mentioned trees a few times now, you obviously have an incling for this type of work.
Possibly the shorter coarse first, which should give u credits 4 the longer one if desired????
Cheers Fred.

Woodchip
03-03-2012, 10:46 AM
Gday Tom,
I started out in tree work, exactly the same way as you are starting to now.
But I was in my very early 20's.
There is no doubt in my mind that it is a young mans gig!, of course there are exceptations of the odd older person still climbing but you will most likely find they have been doing it for decades & its the only thing they know.
I'm 43 & consider myself too old to climb full or even part-time, I absolutely love doing tree work & really enjoy it when the odd small, easy tree comes along every now & then.
It scares the hell out of me even when I just think about the huge, sometimes dangerous trees I used to take out when I was younger.

I did the Arboriculture Techniques course at TAFE (which I think is the cert II), which I thought was fantastic & anyway it was a non-negotiable (at the time) prerequisite to the Tree Surgery (cert III, I think) which I also did, it was definitely the best educational course I have ever done, it was focused 90% on practical tree climbing & rigging techniques.
I dont know how that course would be run nowadays in this over-regulated society!.

I suggest you do the cert II, if you know a lot of it thats cool, a good tutor will spot that & help you with more advanced & technical aspects. Then if you enjoy that go onto the cert III, or cert IV & get more into the tree managment aspect.

cheers

SunM
03-03-2012, 11:51 PM
Cert 2 & 4 are being dropped, the new Cert 3 will be more practical related and less tree science related subjects as it was before. Cert 5 is consultation level, you want to have the Cert 3 before doing that, or at the very least Cert 3 Horticulture, Cert 5 is full on. I've just finish my Cert 3 last year, its a 2.5 year course 1 full day a week, Arbortrim offers a 9 month cut down course. It would make life much easier if you can do a couple of days a week on a tree crew while doing the course, its setup more as an apprenticeship type course, thats why its 1 day a week.

Kathryn
04-03-2012, 04:56 PM
before you spend heaps of time deciding for yourself what course to do. ask your tafe where they would place you. from what sunm putthings are changing but normally cert II is entry level. normally even with past experience they will want you tio atleast rpl cert II or III first. so go talk to the training fellas and they will set you on the right path. thats their job

TomS
18-03-2012, 09:41 PM
Thanks for your help fellas.

I went along to a day of the cert III.. a morning of braindead OH&S and an afternoon of tree ID with a roomfull of 16 yearolds with ADHD and no interest in the material. Glad I didn't pay up before I went along!


I have enrolled for the next chainsaw course.. its several days but doesn't cover felling, just crosscut. I've been using the damn thing for 30 years, I don't know what they will do for all that time!

I don't think this course gives me a tick, as such though. anyone know about this?

Tom
Tom

Bgs
18-03-2012, 09:48 PM
I did a cert II in horticulture Nursery I did it full time and it took 6 months I had a very similar class as you alot of young kids that had to be there to collect centerlink, they were pretty disruptive but most had dropped out after the first two months and it was very enjoyable from then on.

I did it in 2000 back then you could do the chainsaw course of a couple of days and I believe you got a chainsaw ticket.

4 Gardens
19-03-2012, 05:08 AM
I studied a couple of years ago but did the night classes - I think the peopel want to be there as opposed to the young ones during the day

Wyadra
21-03-2012, 06:39 AM
I completed a cert 3 in Landscape last year, thought about doing cert 5 arb. as I make most of my good money from doing trees. Decided against it and am going to study a diploma of design. Like you I am 47 and eventually want to use my brain to make money. If I was to expand the business more along the tree removal direction I would just hire a sub-contractor and then if you want you can learn all you want from him. Even still, on the last big tree I did, the guy who helped me out has been running a fairly large landscaping business and said his arborist can do the job in half the time and twice as safe.

SunM
22-03-2012, 06:26 PM
Thanks for your help fellas.

I went along to a day of the cert III.. a morning of braindead OH&S and an afternoon of tree ID with a roomfull of 16 yearolds with ADHD and no interest in the material. Glad I didn't pay up before I went along!


I have enrolled for the next chainsaw course.. its several days but doesn't cover felling, just crosscut. I've been using the damn thing for 30 years, I don't know what they will do for all that time!

I don't think this course gives me a tick, as such though. anyone know about this?

Tom
Tom

That chainsaw course is basic operation and maintenance, it shouldn't go for more than a day. If you are serious about about a Cert 2/3 in Arb then stick with it, you can't do a basic chainsaw course and call yourself an Arborist. OHS is an important part of Arb, just like everything else within the course. If you want to safely and efficiently do trees, stick with the course and deal with the 16 year olds, there should be a couple of older guys in the class. There are a few places that offer Cert 2/3, I'd check them out before giving up.

Cranbourne Lawnmowing
26-03-2013, 08:20 PM
That chainsaw course is basic operation and maintenance, it shouldn't go for more than a day. If you are serious about about a Cert 2/3 in Arb then stick with it, you can't do a basic chainsaw course and call yourself an Arborist. OHS is an important part of Arb, just like everything else within the course. If you want to safely and efficiently do trees, stick with the course and deal with the 16 year olds, there should be a couple of older guys in the class. There are a few places that offer Cert 2/3, I'd check them out before giving up.

Would you need the cert 2/3 to get the insurance for tree work over 5 mtrs? I really enjoy doing tree lopping and have done jobs up to 15 mtrs by myself but only if I think I can safely do it which can be a problem in itself without proper education on the subject.

I can still climb a tree like a ten year old and love doing tree removal work so would like to be able to safely and legally be able to do work up to even 15 mtrs. If getting qualifications mean I can go even higher then all the better.

Andy B
26-03-2013, 08:25 PM
Probably need to have chainsaw and more arborist training than hort cert. You like many others should of done cert 3 with us last year!

Cranbourne Lawnmowing
26-03-2013, 08:37 PM
Probably need to have chainsaw and more arborist training than hort cert. You like many others should of done cert 3 with us last year!

I have kicked myself a dozen times for not giving it a go when I was given the option, but I didn't feel that I had enough knowledge on plant id etc so thought I would be wasting my time. Only realized how much I have learnt from on the job experiance lately, as I have taken on more gardening jobs again.

brodie
26-03-2013, 08:59 PM
I I do lawns and gardening, but find myself doing more and more tree work, but I am very much self taught. I have read a few books and had some instruction from orchardists and can normally bluff my way along, but have been thinking of doing a TAFE course in aboriculture a day a week. TAFE offer a cert 111 and IV- the first takes a year, the second 3 years.
.
The cert 111 looks more fun but if I did the IV perhaps I'd be set up for tree assessments and planning etc. I'm 47 YO so wouldn't mind making a quid out of the intelligent side of it down the track.

Wouldn't mind going along with one of you tree guys if you need someone!

Really like some advice on the quals. Thanks Fellas.


Tom


Cert 3 is practical and some theory at a basic level.

Cert 5 is for consultants. I am currently doing this qualification. It's quite technical and all theory. Also keep in mind most TAFE institutes won't allow you to do a cert 5 diploma without having done either pervious arb certificates or an equivalent level in hort.

Consulting is a good way to go though.


sign up over at www.treeworld.info/ (and even treebuzz's articles sections its good read) and do some reading/ask some questions.

I would not bother with a cert 2(as in your title) as its a waste a time(you probably already know it all anyway) even if you plan to go onto a cert 3 or 4.

I've been a member of tree world for many years now. I find it useful in some areas but it can be extremely opinionated. Unlike here where we have free speech, the treeworld site owner sensors all articles and quite regularly deletes articles or post contrary to what he believes. He is also not apposed to banning members from the site who disagree with him.

Some good information but often ruined by the owner.

administrator
27-03-2013, 11:21 AM
Cert 2 is a waste of time and Insurance companies wouldnt even look at you if you had that .Cert 3 is what you need there is a 6 week course for cert 3 and this has alarmed insurance companies as there is no legislation regarding the tree industry .The insurance companies have to protect themselves to who they insure .

I agree with you regarding the tree world site as you would of already noticed they wont even bring the subject up of there industry not haveing any legislation at all considering the high danger on there industry .

Have it on good authority the Current Affair vid on our Lawn Mowing directory http://www.lawnmowingdirectory.com.au/ is the guy that runs tree world .Would of been a great opportunity to talk up unregulated tree industry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=pJsyTX31S0Y

administrator
27-03-2013, 01:10 PM
IF YOUR IN THE TREE INDUSTRY THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO LOOK AT

THERES AROUND 30 PAGES

This code provides practical guidance on safety requirements for the amenity tree industry. It is intended as a guide to the public and private sectors in meeting their OHS obligations.

This publication is currently under review.

This publication was developed based on the Occupational Health and Safety Act and Regulation which have now been repealed. The Work Health and Safety Act and Regulation commenced in NSW on 1 January 2012. To ensure you comply with your legal obligations you must refer to the appropriate legislation.

CODE OF PRACTICE
Code of practice: Amenity tree industry

SEE IT ALL HERE http://unionsafe.labor.net.au/officials/files/Amenitytreeindustry.pdf

May 1998
This may be cited as the Code of Practice For The Amenity Tree Industry.
This code provides practical guidance on safety requirements for the amenity tree industry. It is intended as a guide to the public
and private sectors in meeting their requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983. It is not intended to be a
training manual for the amenity tree industry.
This code applies to the amenity tree industry for pruning, trimming, repairing, maintaining, transplanting and removing trees and
for wood chipping, stump grinding and for equipment used in such operations.
This code does not apply to commercial forestry.
This code commences on 1st August 1998.
This is an industry code of practice approved by the Minister for Industrial Relations in accordance with section 44A of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983. It will be reviewed within five years of its commencement.
1. Introduction
1.1 What is a Code of Practice?
An approved Industry Code of Practice is a practical guide to achieving minimum standards of health and safety required by the
Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983. It should be followed unless there is an alternative course of action which achieves the
same or better standards of health and safety in the workplace. It could also be used as a guideline in the investigation of an
accident in the workplace.
1.2 Who should use this Code of Practice?
This code has been developed for all people who work in the amenity tree industry; that is all people who work with trees except
those involved in commercial forestry. This could include, but is not limited to, the following occupations: arborists, tree climbers,
tree loppers, gardeners, horticulturists, landscapers, tree workers, builders and developers, earth movers and site clearers, firewood
contractors, tree transplanters, stump grinders and wood chippers.
1.3 Why has this code been developed?
The simple answer is that TREE WORK IS HAZARDOUS. The industry is full of hazards ranging from the tree itself, to the
weather, the terrain and difficult sites in which tree work is carried out. Each year, many people in the tree industry are killed or
injured.
Apart from the enormous impact of injury on individuals and their families, accidents cost the community a significant amount of
money. The relatively high incidence of injuries is reflected in the high rates for workers compensation insurance premiums.
When injuries are analysed, the overwhelming majority could have been prevented by following the simple safety procedures
outlined in this Code of Practice.
1.4 Who developed this code?
This code was developed by representatives from the amenity tree industry in conjunction with WorkCover NSW. The
development committee came from the following organisations:
· Australian Workers Union
· Centennial Park and Moore Park Trust
· Local Government Tree Resources Association
· National Arborists Association of Australia
· Rope Access Association of NSW
·
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
· Ryde College of TAFE, Division of Horticulture
· Tree Contractors Association
1.5 How to use this code
The code includes provisions for:
· general safety issues
· equipment used in the amenity tree industry
· safe work practices.
The equipment discussed includes:
· ropes and climbing equipment
· chainsaws
· elevated work platforms
· cranes
· stump grinders
· chippers.
The section on safe work practices covers climbing, ground work and the operation of equipment.
Throughout the code some words appear in bold print. These words have definitions which are listed in the back of the booklet
under Chapter 14 Terminology.
2. Legal responsibilities
2.1 Employers
Under the OHS Act, employers have a duty of care for all their employees and any other people at their place of work. Employers
must ensure that the place of work, and any work done in it, is focussed upon health and safety.
A place of work is any place where someone is working. This includes any place where work is being done on a tree.
An employer must:
· provide safe systems of work
· provide safe plant (equipment)
· ensure that plant can be used, handled, stored and transported safely
· provide adequate information, instruction, training and supervision.
To the extent that an employer controls a place of work, they must:
· maintain the place of work in a safe condition
· provide and maintain safe ways of entering and leaving the place of work.
2.2 Self employed and contractors
Self employed people including contractors have similar legal obligations to employers.
They must ensure the health and safety of all people at their place of work including other contractors, any employees of other
contractors and any other people who are at the place of work.
2.3 Employees
Employees also have legal obligations. They must:
· co-operate with their employer and any other employers or contractors at the place of work who have legal obligations for
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
health and safety
· take reasonable care for the health and safety of any people at the place of work.
3. Planning and preparation
3.1 Nominated competent person
Before work starts, a competent person should be nominated to plan and control the work.
A competent person is one who has experience in the work being done. They also have the skills and knowledge needed to:
· identify any potential hazards
· assess the risks of injury
· plan the work so risks are controlled.
Where appropriate, more than one person on site should have the experience, skills and knowledge to act as the nominated
competent person.
3.2 Consultation
The nominated competent person should consult with the people who will be doing the work (or their representative) about how to
do the work safely.
Remember:
· Plan the work
· Identify hazards
· Assess risks
· Control risks
· Review control measures
3.3 Planning
When planning the work the nominated competent person should consider:
· the equipment needed to do the work safely, and its availability
· the experience, fitness and skills needed by the people doing the work
· the number of people needed to do the work safely, particularly taking account of work site safety in public places
· the control of pedestrian and vehicular traffic
· the location of above and below ground services
· the size of the area to be designated as a safe working zone
· the involvement of authorities such as WorkCover, local government, electricity, fire, police and the ambulance service.
3.4 Review
Safety measures should be reviewed when work is finished, or if conditions change. This is particularly important if a dangerous
situation occurs, or if someone is injured.
In many cases a range of control methods must be used to control hazards. This page lists various strategies which should be
considered. The list is in order of preference. It is known as the hierarchy of hazard controls.
3.5 Engineering controls
· Design. Try to ensure that hazards are ‘designed out’ when new materials, equipment and work systems are being planned for
the workplace.
· Remove the hazard or substitute less hazardous materials, equipment or substances.
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· Adopt a safer process. Alterations to tools, equipment or work systems can often make them much safer.
· Enclose or isolate the hazard through the use of guards or remote handling techniques.
· Provide effective ventilation through local or general exhaust ventilation systems.
3.6 Administrative controls
· Establish appropriate administrative procedures such as:
· job rotation to reduce exposure or boredom; or timing the job so that fewer workers are exposed
· routine maintenance and housekeeping procedures
· training on hazards and correct work procedures
· provide suitable and properly maintained personal protective equipment and training in its use.
4. General safety
4.1 Controlling risks
Risks are different on every site. Risks must be eliminated if possible. If it is not practical to eliminate risks, they should be
reduced to a minimum.
The safest way to work will vary from job to job. The following questions can help work out the safest way to work:
· can the risk be eliminated - for example: can electric power be turned off?
· can people be kept away from a hazard - such as setting a safe working distance from power lines?
· what personal protective equipment is required, such as harnesses or safety helmets?
Refer Appendix - "Hazard Assessment Checklist".
4.2 Training and instruction
Before work starts, the nominated competent person must ensure that all people doing the work are adequately trained and have
been given specific instructions on how to do the work safely.
4.3 Fitness
Tree workers and their supervisors should be physically fit and mentally alert.
People should not work if they are under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs. Any person taking prescribed drugs
should be aware of possible side effects and work within those constraints.
4.4 First aid
The Occupational Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulation 1989 requires employers to provide a first aid kit approved by
WorkCover. This first aid kit must be maintained and kept fully stocked. It should always be available on site. Contractors should
also ensure that there is a first aid kit on site. At least one person on site should have a current first aid certificate.
4.5 Emergency procedures
Documented emergency procedures should be kept on site at all times. All people on the site should be familiar with the
emergency procedures and have any necessary training.
Every site should have access to emergency communication and transport.
4.6 Traffic control
The Police Service and Local Councils have control of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. They should be consulted before any tree
work is undertaken which could endanger traffic. In some circumstances permits may be required.
Effective means for the control of pedestrian and vehicle traffic should be established on every job site where necessary. Where
appropriate further information should be sought from the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), the Police and any other relevant
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
authorities.
Australian Standard AS1742-3 Traffic Control Devices For Works on Roads provides information on traffic control.
Some traffic warning and diversion signs
5. Fire protection
5.1 Flammable liquids
Flammable liquids - such as petrol - must be stored, handled and dispensed from approved containers or safety cans.
Petrol driven equipment can start fires. Appropriate precautions must be taken if there is a risk of fire; for example, when cutting
trees in bushland. These precautions include the provision of fire extinguishers. When using petrol powered equipment:
· stop the equipment before refuelling
· remove any spilt fuel before restarting the equipment
· do not operate the equipment within three metres of a refuelling area.
5.2 Smoking
Always remember, don’t smoke when working near flammable liquids.
5.3 Further information
Information on fire prevention and dangerous goods can be found in the following Australian Standards - AS1842 Portable Fire
Extinguishers - Water (stored pressure type), AS1846 Portable Fire Extinguishers - Powder Type and AS1848 Portable Fire
Extinguishers - Halon Type. Also consult the Dangerous Goods Act 1975 and Regulation.
Dangerous goods are materials presenting a safety hazard because of their chemical or physical properties. They may be capable of
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causing immediate harm because they are flammable, poisonous, corrosive (acid or alkaline) or explosive. They can be stored,
handled and used safely if the proper precautions are taken.
Do not smoke when refuelling
6. Personal protective equipment
6.1 When to use PPE
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is any equipment which a person uses to protect them from a risk of illness or injury.
Examples are steel capped boots, harnesses and head protection.
Employees must co-operate with their employer and use PPE if directed to use it. Employees should be trained in the use, care and
maintenance of PPE. They should also be trained to identify workplace situations in which PPE should be used.
6.2 Head and eye protection
All people engaged in amenity tree work should wear head and eye protection.
Australian Standard AS 1801 Industrial Safety Helmets gives information about head protection.
Australian Standard AS 1337 Eye Protectors For Industrial Applications gives information about eye protection.
6.3 Noise
The Occupational Health and Safety (Noise) Regulation 1996 includes provisions that employees must not be exposed to noise
which exceeds 85dB(A) over an 8 hour period or which exceeds a peak level of 140 dB(lin). Excessive noise levels may occur
when using machinery such as chainsaws, woodchippers and stump grinders. The noise rating of all equipment should be known
and this information should be available to employees. If it is not practicable to reduce the noise of a machine, hearing protection
should be worn. Further information on controlling noise exposure can be found in the WorkCover approved Code of Practice For
Noise Management and Protection of Hearing at Work and in AS1270 Acoustics - Hearing Protection.
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
6.4 Clothing
Leg protection such as cut-resistant trousers or chaps should be worn where appropriate.
High visibility clothing should be worn where appropriate.
All people engaged in tree work should wear strong footwear, preferably steel capped with ankle support and deep non-slip tread.
Climbers and chainsaw operators should wear cotton or natural fibre clothing in preference to synthetics. Clothing and footwear
should be appropriate to the work location and conditions. Loose clothing should be avoided.
6.5 Sun protection
Sun protection including SPF15+ sunscreen, long sleeved shirts and hats should be worn. AS 2604 Sunscreen products -
evaluation and classification explains how to determine the performance of sunscreen products.
7. Electrical safety
The dangers of electricity cannot be overstated. Most people know that contact with electricity can cause electrocution and death.
Electric shock can cause:
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
· burns (internal and external)
· cardiac arrest
· loss of consciousness
· asphyxiation
· death by electrocution.
Live powerlines (whether overhead or underground) are a major hazard particularly in the amenity tree industry and have caused
the deaths of a number of industry workers. In addition to direct electric shock and possible electrocution, contact with overhead
powerlines in particular can lead to a variety of hazardous conditions such as:
· fire
· unpredictable cable whiplash
· a rain of molten metal caused by contact between an energised conductor and another conducting medium
· electrifying of other objects such as signs, poles, trees or tree branches - contact with an electrified object can lead to electric
shock or electrocution
7.1 Genereal advice
Special precautions should be taken when work is done in the vicinity of powerlines whether they are overhead or underground.
The same thing applies to work done near any electrical conductor or electrical apparatus or plant such as a transformer or
sub-station.
A powerline or electrical conductor should always be assumed to be energised or ‘live’. If a communication cable or wire is
encountered, it should never be assumed that the operating voltage is harmless.
A tree or branch of a tree can conduct electricity even in dry conditions and it should never be assumed that a tree branch can
safely rest on or against a powerline.
Care should be exercised particularly when plant is operated near electrical conductors. Plant that comes into contact with an
overhead or underground cable may become electrified and pose a serious danger to the operator and any bystanders.
7.2 Electrical hazard tree work
The guidance provided in this section applies to all ‘electrical hazard tree work’. This means any work done by a worker in the
amenity tree industry in any of the following circumstances:
(a) Where the work would bring the worker directly within the ‘danger zone’ - the ‘danger zone’ is explained below.
(b) Where the work relies on the operation of plant and the plant or any part of it would come within the ‘danger zone’ when set
up or positioned or when operated.
(c) Where anything carried by or loaded on plant being operated to undertake the work would come within the ‘danger zone’ -
this could be a tree branch or other plant such as a hand-saw or a chainsaw.
(d) Where some part of a tree or tree branch to be cut is within the ‘danger zone’ even though the worker working on the tree or
branch may be well outside the zone.
(e) Where a tree or tree branch would come within the ‘danger zone’ in the process of it being cut or removed, or after it is cut.
7.3 The "danger zone"
The "danger zone" is a defined zone around a powerline, electrical conductor, cable or electrical apparatus. The minimum
clearance or safe working distance which defines the boundary of the zone depends on the voltage of the powerline or conductor.
The danger zone is specified in the following table:
Zone
Nominal range
Minimum safe working distance
1
Up to 132,000 volts
3 metres
2
More than 132,000 but not more than 330,000 volts
6 metres
3
More than 330,000 volts
8 metres
Zone
Nominal range
Minimum safe working distance
1
Up to 132,000 volts
3 metres
2
More than 132,000 but not more than 330,000 volts
6 metres
3
More than 330,000 volts
8 metres
Note: The distances shown in this table are based on the close proximity distances established by Regulation 133A of the
Construction Safety Regulations 1950.
7.4 Identify the supply authority
Where work has to be carried out in the vicinity of live powerlines or other electrical conductors or apparatus, it is imperative that
the type of cable and the operating voltage be established. If there is any doubt, contact the relevant electricity supply authority or
the owner of the cable.
Before doing any electrical hazard tree work, contact the relevant authority to ensure that suitable arrangements can be made for
the work to be carried out safely and without risks. This should be done even in cases of emergency and in storm situations.
Where the work involves excavation, stump removal or installation of root barriers, the relevant authority should be contacted to
identify and locate any underground mains that may be nearby. It may be necessary to ask the supply authority to hand dig to
locate the cables and possibly to carry out any excavation entirely by hand.
7.5 Training
Adequate training is considered to be one of the most reliable risk control measures and its importance is worth emphasizing. In
particular, training should be provided:
· to anyone who does electrical hazard tree work - this should be to the standard specified by Exemption 5099
· to anyone who has to use or operate plant - this should be appropriate to the type of plant
· to anyone expected to apply emergency procedures - special training is needed for this.
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
Check for both overhead and underground power lines before beginning work
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
7.6 Electrical safety tips
· Look out for powerlines passing through the crown of a tree or nearby
· Always assume that an electric cable is ‘live’ with a potentially lethal voltage
· Never touch a cable either directly or indirectly
· Identify electrical hazards and assess the risks before starting work
· Never work inside the ‘danger zone’ or do electrical hazard tree work unless certain conditions are met
7.7 Work inside the "danger zone"
No-one should work inside the ‘danger zone’ or do any electrical hazard tree work unless the following conditions are met:
· The person doing the work is appropriately trained
· An observer is present while the work is being done
Being appropriately trained means being trained to work in circumstances in which special measures are needed to deal with the
risk of contact with electricity. The kind of training that is considered appropriate for electrical hazard tree work is described in
what is called Exemption 5099 - this is explained below.
The function of the observer should be to observe the work being carried out and to warn of any risk of contact with a nearby
cable or of any hazardous conditions that may develop in the course of the work or of any danger arising for the worker doing the
work or anyone else who may be affected. The observer’s duties should be as described in Regulation 133A of the Construction
Safety Regulations - see below.
7.8 Legislative requirements - Regulation 133A
NSW legislation which people engaged in the amenity tree industry should know about includes Regulation 133A of the
Construction Safety Regulations which deals specifically with certain activities near electrical apparatus. This Regulation
established the same danger zones as those described in the foregoing table and it imposes certain requirements to be met in the
case of such activities. The requirements of Regulation 133A apply to electrical hazard tree work carried out in certain
circumstances. This includes work that involves the operation of plant such as a crane or elevating work platform. It also includes
work involving the operation of powered plant like a chain-saw. In the case of such work, the appointment and presence of an
observer is a requirement of Regulation 133A. The Regulation specifies the duties of the observer.
This and the other requirements imposed by Regulation 133A (such as the fixing of certain signs to plant) must be met where such
work is done unless an exemption from the requirements granted by WorkCover applies to the work.
WorkCover should be consulted if there is any doubt about whether any particular electrical hazard tree work is subject to the
Regulation 133A requirements.
7.9 Exemptions
WorkCover has the power under the provisions of the Construction Safety Regulations to grant an exemption from any of the
requirements of Regulation 133A. There are certain conditions WorkCover must satisfy before any exemption can be granted in
response to an application. WorkCover can attach conditions to the granting of an exemption. These have to be met for the
exemption to be effective.
7.10 Exemption 5099
An exemption from the requirements of Regulation 133A currently operates. This was granted some time ago and it is called
Exemption 5099. Exemption 5099 applies to certain plant - ie plant to which the Regulation applies - used by the various
electricity supply authorities and certain other organisations whose employees ordinarily have to do work actually on or very close
to electrical conductors or apparatus. It also applies to the use of the same kinds of plant by anyone who is contracted to any of
these organisations to carry out tree work.
Exemption 5099 allows the plant to be used closer to electrical conductors or apparatus than the edge of the danger zone so long as
the special conditions attached to the exemption are met. These conditions include the completion of certified training up to the
required standard and also an annual refresher training course.
Information about the application and terms of Exemption 5099 could be obtained from any of the organisations covered by the
exemption. Alternatively, WorkCover could be consulted.
WorkCover on Disk - Codes of Practice
7.11 Emergencies
Whenever an electrical accident or incident happens or someone has received an electric shock and become disabled, there are
special procedures that should be observed. In particular, no-one should attempt a resuscitation of an electric shock victim unless
the person has been specially trained to do this. To begin with, no attempt should be made to resuscitate a victim of electric shock
unless the victim has been thrown clear of the electrical conductors or apparatus. The safety of the rescuer must be ensured.
If an elevating work platform, or the person working from it, comes into contact with a live low-voltage cable, the bucket may be
lowered by using the pedestal controls. Since the vehicle itself could be ‘live’, extreme care should be taken at all times. No
attempt should be made to jump onto the plant during this lowering process.
If power-lines have been brought down, it is important to know that the supporting surface, even the road or ground, could be
electrified around the point of contact. The following procedures should be observed:
· keep well clear of the fallen lines
· issue a warning to any bystanders
· guard the fallen lines until they have been made safe
· notify the relevant electricity supply authority or, if appropriate, the owner of the cable(s)
· assist any electric shock victims but only if it is safe to do so and subject to the advice above
· ensure that help is summoned.
If a conductor has been struck by a falling tree or tree branch or by any plant or equipment, the relevant electrical supply authority
should be notified so that the safety of the conductor can be investigated by the authority. Someone should stand guard at the
location.
Plant that has been involved in an electrical accident or incident, should not be used again unless and until

SunM
27-03-2013, 08:58 PM
Cert 2 is a waste of time and Insurance companies wouldnt even look at you if you had that .Cert 3 is what you need there is a 6 week course for cert 3 and this has alarmed insurance companies as there is no legislation regarding the tree industry .The insurance companies have to protect themselves to who they insure .

Cert 2 doesn't exist anymore, the system has been changed from Cert X Horticulture (Arboriculture) to Cert 3 and 5 Arboriculture. 3 being the practical level Arborist, the previous course had a lot of theory on soils and tree health while the new one focuses more on the practical side and 5 being a consulting Arborist. 6 week course is a joke, I did my Cert 3 over 2.5 years and you were highly encouraged to have a job within the industry because tafe + learning on the job is by far the best way to learn in this industry.


I agree with you regarding the tree world site as you would of already noticed they wont even bring the subject up of there industry not haveing any legislation at all considering the high danger on there industry .

Have it on good authority the Current Affair vid on our Lawn Mowing directory http://www.lawnmowingdirectory.com.au/ is the guy that runs tree world .Would of been a great opportunity to talk up unregulated tree industry.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=pJsyTX31S0Y

It has been brought up many times on the treeworld forum about the lack of regulation in the tree industry (been a member there for years) but it always ends the same, we need the government to get behind it and support it. Most of the plant used in the industry is extremely dangerous, almost everyone I know in the industry knows someone who has cut themselves or knows someone who has had been injured by a chipper. No one should be allowed to use a chainsaw without having done the basic chainsaw course which covers safety, maintenance and cross cutting. It's disturbing watching some people buy saws from Bunnings while asking a service attendant who also has no clue about them.

Just to add extra to the post below about code of practice and the clearance from conductors. Each power company has their own clearance requirements. Here in Victoria it various between the power companies as to how close you can get, etc.

Redeye
28-03-2013, 07:16 PM
No one should be allowed to use a chainsaw without having done the basic chainsaw course which covers safety, maintenance and cross cutting. It's disturbing watching some people buy saws from Bunnings while asking a service attendant who also has no clue about them.
totally agree with this

PaulG
28-03-2013, 07:30 PM
Seconded....14 14 14

GardenGuy
30-03-2013, 12:04 AM
totally agree with this


Thoroughly agreed.

While a basic chain saw is a simple, at first glance tool, to operate and use, it is also the most deadly implement that most people will ever handle. A little training goes a very long way.

Cheers - GardenGuy.

Treecat
01-04-2013, 11:35 PM
I've been a member of tree world for many years now. I find it useful in some areas but it can be extremely opinionated. Unlike here where we have free speech, the treeworld site owner sensors all articles and quite regularly deletes articles or post contrary to what he believes. He is also not apposed to banning members from the site who disagree with him.

Some good information but often ruined by the owner.

I rarely look there once every 2 months these days. it went downhill as soon as you were forced to have your personal name or business name as your user name.

If i feel the need i browse (but both are not aus related)
treebuzz.com
ArboristSite.com

SunM
02-04-2013, 07:24 PM
I rarely look there once every 2 months these days. it went downhill as soon as you were forced to have your personal name or business name as your user name.

If i feel the need i browse (but both are not aus related)
treebuzz.com
ArboristSite.com

Agreed on the downhill, I used to post there daily, now I avoid posting with my name as much as possible.

Is treebuzz active, or is it another tree... I'm thinking of? AS is good but arbtalk.co.uk is better IMO, I've always found the English more knowledgeable than the yanks.

Treecat
02-04-2013, 07:39 PM
treebuzz seems to still be kicking from a quick look.
treeworld was dead the last time i was there :P