ISA Arborist Safety and Standards Questions and Answers

Question 1

An arborist must prune branches from a tree canopy that is growing within the minimum approach distance of a 7,200-volt primary distribution line. According to ANSI Z133 standards, what is the closest a *qualified* line-clearance arborist is permitted to approach this conductor?

Accepted Answer

2 feet, 2 inches

Answer

According to the ANSI Z133 standard, the minimum approach distance (MAD) for qualified line-clearance arborists working near energized conductors from 1.1 to 15.0 kilovolts (kV) is 2 feet, 2 inches. The general '10-foot rule' applies to unqualified persons.

Question 2

According to ANSI Z133 safety standards, which of the following is a prohibited practice when starting a chainsaw on a work site?

Accepted Answer

Drop-starting the saw by holding it in one hand and pulling the starter cord with the other.

Answer

ANSI Z133 explicitly prohibits drop-starting a chainsaw. This method does not provide adequate control of the saw during the high-torque action of starting, creating a significant risk of injury. Safe methods involve stabilizing the saw on the ground or firmly between the legs.

Question 3

A tree care crew is preparing for the day's work, which includes one climber and two ground workers. According to ANSI Z133, what is the minimum requirement for emergency readiness on this crew?

Accepted Answer

At least one worker on site must be trained in aerial rescue procedures.

Answer

ANSI Z133 requires that workers be trained in emergency procedures, including aerial rescue. While having multiple people trained in first aid/CPR is best practice, the standard's critical provision for climbing operations is ensuring that someone on site has the specific training to rescue an injured or incapacitated worker from aloft.

Question 4

Which of the following best describes the primary hazard associated with "negative blocking" or "negative rigging" during tree removal operations?

Accepted Answer

It generates significant shock loading and dynamic forces on the rigging system.

Answer

Negative rigging, where a cut piece is allowed to fall before being caught by the rigging line, creates a shock load. The resulting dynamic forces can be many times greater than the static weight of the wood, potentially causing catastrophic failure of the rigging equipment or the anchor point in the tree.

Question 5

An arborist is setting their climbing line using a moving rope system (MRS) with a friction hitch. Before leaving the ground, what is the most critical safety check that must be performed on the climbing system?

Accepted Answer

Testing the hitch to confirm it grips the rope securely and releases when intended.

Answer

Before an arborist's weight is committed to the climbing system, the friction hitch must be tested to ensure it functions correctly. This involves making sure it will grab the rope to hold the climber's weight, but also release smoothly for controlled movement. This function check is paramount to preventing an uncontrolled ascent or descent.

(ISA) ISA Certified Arborist Practice Test

(ISA) ISA Certified Arborist Practice Test

ISA Arborist Safety and Standards Questions and Answers