CTSP Aerial and Tree Climber Rescue Procedures

Question 1

According to ANSI Z133, when must an aerial rescue plan be established for a tree climbing operation?

Accepted Answer

Before climbing operations begin, regardless of tree height

Answer

ANSI Z133 requires that a rescue plan be established before any climbing operations begin, regardless of height or climber experience. The plan must be communicated to all crew members and a trained rescuer must be present on site.

Question 2

An aerial lift operator becomes unresponsive in the bucket 30 feet off the ground. What is the preferred first rescue action for ground crew?

Accepted Answer

Attempt to lower the bucket using the ground controls at the base of the machine

Answer

Most aerial lift machines have ground-level override controls specifically for rescue situations. Ground crew should use these controls to lower the bucket safely. Cutting hydraulic lines or unauthorized climbing creates additional hazards and is not an approved rescue method.

Question 3

When performing a pick-off rescue on an incapacitated tree climber, what is the rescuer's primary concern after securing the victim?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining two points of attachment for both the rescuer and the victim throughout the descent

Answer

During a pick-off rescue, the rescuer must maintain two points of attachment (both rescuer and victim are secured) throughout the descent. Removing a harness mid-rescue or descending with a single attachment point creates unacceptable fall risk for both parties.

Question 4

Which condition would most likely indicate that a climber requires an immediate aerial rescue rather than a self-rescue?

Accepted Answer

The climber is unconscious and suspended in their saddle

Answer

An unconscious climber suspended in their saddle cannot self-rescue and requires immediate intervention. Suspension trauma (harness hang syndrome) can become life-threatening within minutes. An unconscious climber represents the textbook scenario for an aerial rescue response.

Question 5

How often must crew members who may be required to perform an aerial rescue demonstrate competency in rescue procedures, according to best practices aligned with ANSI Z133?

Accepted Answer

Annually, with documented practice rescues

Answer

ANSI Z133 and TCIA best practices require that rescue competency be maintained through regular — at minimum annual — documented practice. Skills degrade without rehearsal, and a crew that has never practiced a rescue will struggle to execute one effectively under stress.

CTSP - Certified Treecare Safety Professional Practice Test

CTSP - Certified Treecare Safety Professional Practice Test

CTSP Aerial and Tree Climber Rescue Procedures