Incident Prevention and Response Flashcards

A climber is injured and unresponsive in a tree that is in contact with a low-voltage power line. According to ANSI Z133 standards and best practices, what is the IMMEDIATE first step for the ground crew to take?

Answer: Contact the utility company to de-energize the line.

The absolute first priority in any incident involving electricity is to ensure the scene is safe for rescuers. Attempting a rescue before the power line is de-energized would expose the rescuer to the same electrical hazard, potentially creating a second victim. The correct and safest immediate action is to contact the utility company to have the power shut off and the line confirmed to be de-energized.

During a job site hazard analysis before beginning work, which of the following is the MOST critical element to identify and communicate to the entire crew?

Answer: The designated drop zone and emergency escape routes.

A thorough job site hazard analysis, or JHA, is a foundational element of incident prevention. While all aspects of the job plan are important, identifying and clearly communicating the drop zone for falling limbs and the predetermined escape routes for all ground personnel is critical to preventing 'struck-by' injuries, which are a leading cause of fatalities in the industry. This information is vital for every crew member to know before any cutting begins.

Which of the following best describes the primary cause of chainsaw kickback?

Answer: Contacting wood with the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip.

Chainsaw kickback is a violent upward and backward reaction of the saw. It occurs when the moving chain on the upper quadrant of the guide bar tip, also known as the kickback corner, contacts an object without cutting through it. This causes the chain to snag and transfer the rotational force back to the operator. While a dull chain can increase the risk, the primary cause is contact with this specific zone of the bar.

A serious incident has occurred, resulting in an injury. After ensuring the scene is safe and first aid has been administered, what is the most critical next step in the incident response process?

Answer: Preserve the incident scene to allow for a thorough investigation.

After managing the immediate emergency, it is crucial to preserve the scene of the incident. This allows for a proper and detailed investigation to determine the root cause(s). Altering the scene by moving equipment or debris can destroy valuable evidence needed to understand what happened and prevent future occurrences. Witness interviews and notifications are important, but securing the scene comes first.

A ground worker is struck by a falling branch and is bleeding heavily from a leg wound. The crew has been trained in first aid. What is the most appropriate initial action to control the bleeding?

Answer: Apply firm, direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or dressing.

According to standard first-aid protocols for severe bleeding, the first and most important step is to apply firm, direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth, dressing, or sterile bandage. This helps the blood to clot and can significantly reduce blood loss. While a tourniquet may be necessary for life-threatening arterial bleeding that cannot be controlled by direct pressure, it is not the initial action. Offering water or moving the victim unnecessarily are not primary concerns when dealing with severe bleeding.

Which of the following is a key component of an effective aerial rescue plan, as outlined by industry best practices?

Answer: Having a dedicated, pre-installed rescue line or a readily accessible second climbing system.

An effective and efficient aerial rescue is dependent on preparation. Best practices emphasize having a plan and the right equipment ready before an incident occurs. This includes having a dedicated rescue kit and often involves pre-installing a second access line in the tree, which allows a rescuer to ascend quickly and safely without disturbing the victim's system. Relying on a single climber, waiting unnecessarily for EMS, or using potentially compromised equipment are all contrary to established safety protocols.