CATS Arborist Albuquerque Risk & Safety 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When assessing a tree near a structure in Albuquerque's high-wind zone, which defect most significantly increases failure risk?
- Minor surface fungi
- Co-dominant stems with included bark (Correct answer)
- Small epicormic shoots
- Light lichen growth on bark
Correct answer: Co-dominant stems with included bark
Co-dominant stems with included bark create a structural weakness that dramatically increases the likelihood of stem failure under wind loading.
Question 2: Under ANSI Z133 standards, what is the minimum safe approach distance from an energized power line for an aerial lift operator?
- 3 feet
- 5 feet
- 10 feet (Correct answer)
- 15 feet
Correct answer: 10 feet
ANSI Z133 requires a minimum 10-foot approach distance from energized lines up to 50kV for aerial lift operations.
Question 3: A tree removal crew in Albuquerque identifies a dead snag with a DBH of 24 inches. What is the primary risk factor to evaluate before felling?
- Aesthetic impact on neighbors
- Decay extent and structural integrity (Correct answer)
- Root system depth
- Presence of bark beetles
Correct answer: Decay extent and structural integrity
Decay extent determines unpredictable failure modes in dead snags, making structural integrity assessment the primary safety concern before felling.
Question 4: Which OSHA regulation specifically governs tree care worker safety and references ANSI Z133?
- 29 CFR 1910.132
- 29 CFR 1910.268 (Correct answer)
- 29 CFR 1926.20
- 29 CFR 1910.95
Correct answer: 29 CFR 1910.268
29 CFR 1910.268 covers telecommunications work and references ANSI Z133 as the applicable standard for tree care operations near utility lines.
Question 5: In Albuquerque's desert climate, which condition most commonly weakens tree wood structure over time and elevates risk?
- Overwatering causing root rot
- UV radiation bleaching bark
- Drought stress leading to internal decay pathways (Correct answer)
- Frost cracks from cold nights
Correct answer: Drought stress leading to internal decay pathways
Prolonged drought stress in Albuquerque weakens tree defenses against decay fungi and boring insects, creating internal decay pathways that compromise structural integrity.
Question 6: What does the term 'drop zone' refer to in arborist safety practice?
- The area where wood chips are deposited
- The designated area where cut material will fall (Correct answer)
- A staging zone for equipment storage
- The location where a climber descends from the tree
Correct answer: The designated area where cut material will fall
The drop zone is the pre-identified area where severed limbs or sections will fall, and it must be cleared of all personnel before cutting begins.
Question 7: When using a chainsaw for aerial work in a tree, what ANSI Z133 requirement applies to the saw's chain?
- The chain must be rated for overhead cutting
- A chain brake must be present and functional (Correct answer)
- The chain must be lubricated with biodegradable oil only
- The chain must be replaced every 8 hours of use
Correct answer: A chain brake must be present and functional
ANSI Z133 requires that chainsaws used in aerial tree work be equipped with a functional chain brake to stop the chain in the event of kickback.
CATS Arborist Albuquerque Risk & Safety 2
When assessing a tree near a structure in Albuquerque's high-wind zone, which defect most significantly increases failure risk?