CTSP Hazard Identification and Control 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A tree assessment reveals a basal cavity that occupies more than one-third of the trunk's circumference. The most appropriate risk management action is:
- Install a basal support cable and continue work
- Remove or significantly reduce the tree after confirming no internal sound wood remains (Correct answer)
- Apply wound dressing to slow further decay
- Monitor the cavity annually and reassess in spring
Correct answer: Remove or significantly reduce the tree after confirming no internal sound wood remains
A basal cavity exceeding one-third of the trunk circumference typically indicates insufficient residual wall thickness to support the tree safely, often warranting removal.
Question 2: Which of the following actions BEST demonstrates the hierarchy of hazard controls in arboricultural work?
- Requiring workers to wear more PPE when a hazard is identified
- Eliminating the hazard by removing the dead branch before beginning aerial work (Correct answer)
- Posting warning signs around the hazard zone
- Training workers to recognize and avoid the hazard
Correct answer: Eliminating the hazard by removing the dead branch before beginning aerial work
Elimination is the highest level of hazard control in the hierarchy, and removing the hazardous branch before work is the strongest control available.
Question 3: What does a 'confined space' designation mean for a tree worker operating near a utility vault or below-grade structure?
- The space is too small to use standard climbing gear
- Entry requires specific permits, atmospheric testing, and rescue capability (Correct answer)
- The work must be performed by two workers at minimum
- OSHA rules do not apply to outdoor below-grade spaces
Correct answer: Entry requires specific permits, atmospheric testing, and rescue capability
Permit-required confined spaces demand atmospheric testing, a confined space entry permit, and an emergency rescue plan before any worker enters.
Question 4: During aerial work in a tree, a climber notices the branch she is attached to has significant bark inclusion. She should:
- Complete the task quickly before the branch fails
- Shift her tie-in point to a structurally sound branch before proceeding (Correct answer)
- Reduce her body weight by removing tools from her belt
- Notify the ground crew but continue working from the same position
Correct answer: Shift her tie-in point to a structurally sound branch before proceeding
A climber must relocate her tie-in point to a sound anchor when a structural defect is discovered, as a branch with included bark may fail under load.
Question 5: What is the role of a spotter during mechanical equipment operations in a tree crew?
- To operate the grapple saw while the driver focuses on steering
- To watch for overhead hazards and direct the equipment operator via clear signals (Correct answer)
- To document equipment hours for maintenance records
- To guide pedestrian traffic away from the work zone
Correct answer: To watch for overhead hazards and direct the equipment operator via clear signals
A spotter watches for hazards the equipment operator cannot see—especially overhead—and communicates using pre-established signals to prevent collisions and accidents.
Question 6: Lightning-struck trees present which specific hazard that may not be immediately visible?
- Residual electrical charge stored in the wood
- Internal steam damage and internal splits that weaken structural integrity (Correct answer)
- Elevated sap pressure causing bark to eject suddenly
- Magnetized wood that interferes with compass navigation
Correct answer: Internal steam damage and internal splits that weaken structural integrity
Lightning can vaporize internal moisture, creating internal steam damage and hidden longitudinal splits that compromise the tree's structural integrity without obvious external signs.
Question 7: A job hazard analysis (JHA) for a tree removal should be completed:
- Once per year for all anticipated tree work
- Before work begins on each specific job site (Correct answer)
- Only when the job involves climbers above 30 feet
- After the first day of work to capture actual site conditions
Correct answer: Before work begins on each specific job site
A JHA must be completed before work begins on each specific job site because hazards vary by location, tree condition, and site layout.
CTSP Hazard Identification and Control 4
A tree assessment reveals a basal cavity that occupies more than one-third of the trunk's circumference.
The most appropriate risk management action is: