ANSI Z133 Essentials
The plain-language field summary of the tree care industry safety standard: work areas, electrical hazards, PPE, and who may do what.
When to use it
Job briefings, crew onboarding, and settling on-site arguments about what is required.
Step by step
Step 1
Hold a job briefing before work starts and again whenever conditions or the plan change.
Step 2
Define and mark the work area. Keep the public and other workers out of the drop zone.
Step 3
Assume every conductor is energised. Only qualified line-clearance arborists work inside the minimum approach distance.
Untrained workers must stay well clear of all electrical conductors.
Step 4
Wear the required PPE for the task: head, eye and hearing protection, leg protection for chainsaw use, and high-visibility clothing near traffic.
Step 5
Two-way communication between climber and ground crew stays open at all times, with agreed signals for noise.
Step 6
Climbers are supported by their climbing system while aloft; no free-climbing above the ground-level work zone.
Step 7
Never work alone on aerial operations. A trained person capable of aerial rescue stays on site.
Step 8
Inspect gear before each use and remove damaged equipment from service immediately.
Cautions
- This is a field summary, not the standard. Keep a current copy of ANSI Z133 on hand and follow it.
- Local regulations and employer policy may be stricter — the stricter rule wins.
On-site checklist
Training aid only. Follow ANSI Z133, your employer's policy and the manufacturer's instructions for every piece of equipment.