Tree Trimming Safety
A safety talk focused on tree trimming hazards, including falling limbs, chainsaws, overhead lines, ladders, unstable footing, traffic exposure, and communication.
Scan to open or share
Point your phone at this code to open this talk, or screenshot it and text it to coworkers.
Printable Resources
Link to printable files for crew meetings, briefings, or documentation.
Key Hazards
- Falling limbs, branches, or cut material
- Contact with overhead power lines
- Chainsaw and cutting tool injuries
- Falls from ladders, lifts, or unstable ground
- Workers struck by equipment or falling debris
- Traffic exposure during roadside trimming
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Tree trimming can be hazardous because the work involves overhead material, cutting tools, unstable footing, changing limb movement, and sometimes traffic or power line exposure.
Before trimming begins, workers should inspect the area for overhead power lines, dead limbs, leaning trees, traffic, structures, fences, pedestrians, and uneven ground.
Falling limbs can move unpredictably. Branches may swing, roll, bounce, split, or fall in a different direction than expected once they are cut.
Workers should keep clear of drop zones. No one should stand under active cutting work or beneath limbs that may fall, shift, or hang up.
Chainsaws, pole saws, handsaws, and pruning tools should be inspected and used with the correct PPE. Eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, helmets, chaps, and high-visibility clothing may be required depending on the task.
Ladders should be used cautiously around trees. Branches can move, ladders can shift on soft ground, and workers can overreach while trying to make one more cut.
Traffic control may be needed when trimming occurs near streets, sidewalks, driveways, or parking areas. Drivers may not expect workers, limbs, or equipment in the roadway.
Safe tree trimming depends on planning the cut, controlling the drop zone, staying clear of power lines, and communicating before limbs or equipment move.
Safety Reminders
- Inspect the tree and surrounding area before trimming.
- Stay clear of overhead power lines.
- Keep workers out of drop zones.
- Use proper PPE for cutting and falling debris.
- Do not overreach from ladders or unstable positions.
- Control traffic and pedestrians when needed.
- Communicate before cutting or lowering limbs.
Ask the Crew
- Are overhead power lines or utilities nearby?
- Where will limbs fall, swing, or roll after cutting?
- Is the drop zone clear of workers and pedestrians?
- What PPE is required for this trimming task?
- Is traffic control needed for roadside or public areas?