Glossary term
What is OSHA?
Short answer
OSHA is the US federal agency that sets and enforces workplace safety rules for employers.
OSHA, explained for tree service owners
OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, inspects workplaces and can fine employers who break safety rules. Tree work is a high-risk trade, so crews face rules on training, protective gear, ladders, machinery and working near electrical lines. Some states run their own approved safety programs with similar rules. Owners should keep training records and fix hazards quickly. If you hire, learn which rules apply to your crew. This is a short explanation, not legal advice. Check the official OSHA website or ask a safety professional.
Related terms
- ANSI Z133
ANSI Z133 is the American national safety standard for tree care operations, such as climbing, rigging, chipping and working near power…
- Back cut
A back cut is the final cut made on the opposite side of the notch that frees the tree to fall, leaving the hinge intact.
- Chainsaw chaps
Chainsaw chaps are cut-resistant leg guards that clog a saw chain if it touches the leg, giving time to stop.
- Chipper feed rollers
Chipper feed rollers are the powered rollers at the chute that pull branches into the blades at a steady pace.
- Climbing spikes
Climbing spikes are sharp metal points strapped to a climber's boots that bite into the trunk, used mainly on trees being removed.
- Conventional notch
A conventional notch is a wedge cut with a flat bottom and a sloped top that guides a tree to fall in a set direction.
- Drop zone
A drop zone is the marked area on the ground where cut branches and wood are expected to fall, kept clear of people.
- Experience modification rate
An experience modification rate (EMR) is a number that raises or lowers your workers' comp cost based on your past claims compared with…
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