Today, we're excited to share the details of our latest team gathering—a combination of lunch and learning focused on industry standards, with a particular emphasis on safety for this month's session.
At Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc., the last Friday of each month holds special significance. It's a time when our team comes together not only to enjoy a good meal but also to enrich our knowledge and reinforce crucial safety practices that are fundamental to our tree service work, including tree removal and tree trimming.
This month, our lunch and learn session centered around safety standards was particularly engaging. We delved into a range of topics essential for our fieldwork, with a special focus on the key practices outlined below:
Pre-Job Preparations
Before diving into the details of our lunchtime discussions, let's recap some of the critical safety measures we abide by daily:
Folder in Truck: Our trucks are equipped with Folders containing essential documents such as insurance details, registration papers, and safety triage information. This ensures that we are always prepared and compliant on the road.
Daily Inspections: Each day begins with thorough inspections of our equipment and vehicles to identify any potential safety issues before starting tree removal or tree trimming work.
Attendance and Perimeter Safety: Team members arrive promptly at 7 am, and we prioritize safe parking to establish a secure work environment from the outset.
Pre-Job Briefing
A key component of our safety protocol is the pre-job briefing, where we assign roles, review safety precautions, and outline specific tasks related to tree service:
Assigning Roles: Each team member's role was clearly defined, whether as a climber, operating machinery like the dingo or chipper, or monitoring for hazards like overhead wires.
Identifying Targets: Our targets for this job included gnome sculptures—highlighting the importance of tailoring safety measures to each unique task in tree removal and tree trimming.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Face shields, eye protection, helmets, chainsaw pants—these are standard gear for us, emphasizing the critical role of PPE in mitigating risks during tree service operations.
Tailgate Training: Truck Mounted Loaders and More
During our lunch and learn, we revisited essential safety practices related to our equipment and hazards encountered in tree service work:
Truck-Mounted Loaders: A comprehensive discussion on safe operation and potential hazards associated with truck-mounted loaders used in tree removal and tree trimming.
Hazards Awareness: Our team was reminded of common hazards present on job sites and how to identify and mitigate them effectively.
Z133 Safety Standards: We highlighted the importance of referencing industry standards, particularly Z133, as our go-to resource for safety guidelines in tree service.
Authorized Personnel: Emphasizing that only trained and authorized individuals should perform specific tasks, such as operating cranes or hoists in tree removal and tree trimming.
Proper Equipment Use: Reinforcing the principle of using equipment only for its intended purpose and maintaining communication with spotters during tree service tasks.
Final Safety Measures and Learning Check
We wrapped up our session with additional safety pointers and a quiz to ensure everyone had absorbed the essential information for tree service tasks. Topics covered included:
Vehicle Inspections: Stressing the importance of routine inspections and maintenance to prevent mechanical failures during tree service work.
Landing Zones: Discussing safe procedures for creating and maintaining clear landing zones for equipment and debris during tree removal and tree trimming.
Clothing Safety: Advising on the importance of wearing fitted clothing and keeping loose items away from machinery to prevent accidents during tree service operations.
As we concluded our lunch and learn, it was clear that safety is not just a priority—it's a mindset ingrained in every aspect of our tree service work. Every job presents unique challenges, but with consistent adherence to these safety protocols and ongoing education, our team remains equipped to handle any tree removal or tree trimming task with confidence and caution.
Here at Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc., serving the Greater Cincinnati area, we are dedicated to ensuring our team stays safe on every tree service job site and beyond. Stay tuned for more updates from Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc. as we continue to prioritize safety, innovation, and excellence in tree care. Until next time, stay safe and keep learning!
Gregory Forrest Lester, Inc. Safety Team
Lester Leaf Treeee-rific Trivia
Did you know that ANSI Z133, like a well-nurtured leaf, covers more ground than you might think? 🌿 Beyond tree climbing and cutting, this standard branches out to include guidelines for aerial lift operations, chipping and grinding, rigging and lowering, and even working near electrical hazards. It's like a full canopy of safety, ensuring all aspects of arboricultural work are protected from root to tip!