Subchapter 7. General Industry Safety Orders
Group 3. General Plant Equipment and Special Operations
Article 12. Tree Work, Maintenance or Removal

§3421. General.

(a) An accident prevention program shall be inaugurated and maintained in accordance with Section 3203.

(b) Each work location where tree trimming, tree repairing or removal is to be done, shall be under the direction of a qualified tree worker.

(c) Employees shall be trained and instructed in the hazards involved in their job assignments, including the proper use of all equipment utilized in tree work, maintenance or removal operations. Such training shall be documented by the employer to certify that the employee has satisfactorily completed the training program prior to performing the job assignment.

(d) A job briefing shall be conducted by a qualified tree worker before each work assignment is begun. Such job briefing shall include the description of the hazards unique to a specific job, appropriate work procedures to be followed, work assignment and other items to ensure that the work can be accomplished safely.

(e) Prior to use, all equipment and safety devices shall be inspected and any found to be defective shall be immediately repaired or removed from service.

(f) Employees shall be trained in the identification and preventive measures relating to common poisonous plants and harmful animals.

(g) An adequate supply of potable water shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 3363.

(h) Where vehicular or pedestrian traffic may endanger employees, traffic control shall be provided that conforms to the applicable provisions of Article 11 of the Construction Safety Orders, Title 8, California Code of Regulations.

(i) Internal combustion engine fuel tanks shall be refilled in accordance with Section 3319.

(j) The employer shall establish rescue procedures and provide training in first-aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and aerial rescue. First-aid and CPR training shall be performed by a certified instructor.

(k) When employees are required to work in areas in which the noise levels exceed the allowable standards for occupational noise, the employer shall provide hearing protection and training as required in Article 105 of the General Industry Safety Orders.

NOTE: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.

HISTORY

1. Amendment filed 8-8-85; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 85, No. 32).

2. Change without regulatory effect amending subsection (h) filed 4-2-92 pursuant to section 100, title 1, California Code of Regulations (Register 92, No. 14).

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