SLIDE 1
The National Tree Climbing Program
PURPOSE
To ensure the safety of USFS tree climbers and the integrity of existing climbing activities. The climbing safety program is defined in 3 primary documents:
- Health & Safety Code Handbook [FSH 6709.11 Sec 22.49 Tree Climbing]
- Tree Climbing Program (Policy) [FSH 6709.12-2001-2 (being revised}
- National Tree Climbing Field Guide [0167-2802-MTDC]
All Forest Service employees engaged in any tree climbing activities must be properly trained, and certified. Two certified climbers required for all climbing assignments..
- trainees must pass a written or verbal test that demonstrates knowledge of at
least the following: + the safety requirements set forth in the Health & Safety Code, Policy and field Guide + hazards associated with tree climbing and hazard tree assessment + function, use, care and maintenance of tree climbing equipment
- certification is valid for 3 years, (unless revoked earlier) and is not a
guaranteed result of training; classes of certification are: + Tree Climber Trainee + Tree Climber + Tree Climbing Instructor Core training requirements that must be performed in order to obtain certification:
- successfully tie all task-specific knots
- demonstrate proficiency in free-climbing, using the 3-point climbing method
- perform an aerial rescue using an approved rappel system
- exercise reasonable and prudent judgment in all climbing situations
Additional training modules and certification options:
- sectional ladders
- spurs
- 4” tie-in self-belay
- body-thrust
- secured footlock
- friction knot systems
- ascenders
- ther miscellaneous technologies
- chain saw use in trees