CATS CATS - Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the minimum breaking strength required for a climbing line used in tree work per ANSI Z133?
- 5,400 pounds (24 kN) minimum breaking strength (Correct answer)
- 1,000 pounds minimum
- 2,000 pounds minimum
- 10,000 pounds minimum
Correct answer: 5,400 pounds (24 kN) minimum breaking strength
ANSI Z133 sets 5,400 lbs (24 kN) as the minimum breaking strength for climbing lines to provide an adequate safety factor under dynamic loads.
Question 2: What is the function of an arborist saddle (harness) during tree climbing?
- To distribute climbing forces across the body and provide secure attachment points (Correct answer)
- To protect tree bark from rope friction
- To store hand tools during the climb
- To provide fall arrest at the top of the tree only
Correct answer: To distribute climbing forces across the body and provide secure attachment points
A properly fitted saddle spreads the load across the hips and thighs, preventing injury and providing D-rings for attaching the climbing system.
Question 3: Before ascending a tree, an arborist should inspect the climbing line for what condition?
- Cuts, abrasions, chemical contamination, or excessive wear (Correct answer)
- Color fading that indicates UV exposure only
- Whether the line meets the minimum length requirement
- Whether the line is the correct diameter for the saddle
Correct answer: Cuts, abrasions, chemical contamination, or excessive wear
Damage such as core cuts, sheath abrasion, or chemical contamination can reduce rope strength far below its rated value.
Question 4: What is a 'tie-in point' (TIP) in tree climbing terminology?
- The anchor point in the tree canopy where the climbing rope is attached (Correct answer)
- The knot used to attach the rope to the saddle
- The lowest anchor on the ground
- The point where two ropes connect
Correct answer: The anchor point in the tree canopy where the climbing rope is attached
A secure, live TIP above the climber provides the upward support needed for the stationary rope or moving rope technique.
Question 5: Which PPE items are mandatory for all arborists performing aerial tree work per ANSI Z133?
- Helmet, eye protection, and climbing harness at minimum (Correct answer)
- Steel-toed boots are the only mandatory item
- Gloves and hearing protection only
- Hi-visibility vest and hard hat only
Correct answer: Helmet, eye protection, and climbing harness at minimum
ANSI Z133 requires head, eye, and body protection as baseline PPE for aerial work because hazards include falling debris, chips, and fall arrest.
Question 6: What must an arborist do before installing a climbing line in any tree in Albuquerque?
- Perform a visual and advanced assessment of the tree for structural defects and hazards (Correct answer)
- Begin climbing without prior assessment if the tree looks healthy
- Check only the ground around the tree for obstacles
- Obtain a city permit for every climb
Correct answer: Perform a visual and advanced assessment of the tree for structural defects and hazards
An undetected structural defect such as decay, cracks, or weak branch unions can cause catastrophic failure under a climber's load.
CATS CATS - Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue Questions and Answers 1
What is the minimum breaking strength required for a climbing line used in tree work per ANSI Z133?