Tree Planter Fact Sheet

WHAT DOES A TREE PLANTER DO?

Tree planters and other forestry workers perform physically demanding work. Some of their main duties are to:

  • Clear brush.
  • Climb over stumps, slash, and other obstacles.
  • Carry and plant trees using manual tools.
  • Feed machines manually.
  • Prepare a site for planting.
  • Use proper techniques for handling seedlings
  • Use, clean, and maintain various equipment.
  • Work with chemicals for plant growth, or for weed and pest control.
  • Supervise other workers.

What are some health and safety issues for tree planters?

Tree planters face a variety of physical, biological, chemical, ergonomic and safety hazards. These include:

  • Insect bites or stings.
  • West Nile virus (mosquitoes).
  • Lyme disease or rocky mountain spotted fever.
  • Rabies.
  • Allergic reaction to plants.
  • Exposure to bird or rodent droppings:
    • Histoplasmosis
    • Psittacosis
    • Hantavirus
  • Exposure to chemicals, including pesticides.
  • Risk of pain or injury from working in awkward positions, performing repetitive tasks or lifting.
  • Risk of tendonitis from repetitive work.
  • Risk of injury from hitting a hidden rock with a shovel.
  • Exposure to extreme temperatures or other extreme weather conditions (including lightning).
  • UV radiation (risk of skin cancer from sunlight).
  • Driving – vehicle safety hazards.
  • Slips, trips and falls.
  • Work near live electrical lines and equipment.
  • Flammable products (e.g., fuel for the power equipment).
  • Working with chainsaws and other tools/equipment.
  • Stress.
  • Working alone.
  • Extended work days.
  • Working in extreme hot and cold environments.

What are some preventive measures for tree planters?

  • Learn safe lifting procedures.
  • Select appropriate tools for the task.
  • Keep tools and equipment in good working order.
  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task.
  • Wear appropriate footwear.
  • Wear clothing appropriate to the hot and cold weather.
  • Avoid awkward postures and repetitive manual tasks, or take frequent breaks.
  • In the warmer months, cover up for protection from sun, heat and insects.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • In vehicles, always wear a seatbelt.
  • Use insect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin to repel ticks and other insects such as mosquitos, horseflies, black flies, or gnats.
  • Carry a first aid kit, as well as an epi-pen if you are allergic to bees, wasps, and hornet stings or have other allergies.

What are some good general safe work practices?

  • Use safety procedures for:
    • Safe lifting
    • Selection, use, maintenance and storage of PPE
    • Working with pesticides and other substances
    • Using chainsaws, shovels and other tools or equipment
    • Working alone
    • Driving – vehicle inspection and distracted driving
    • Emergency preparedness
  • Follow company safety rules.
  • Learn about chemical safety, WHMIS and SDSs.
  • Know how to report a hazard.
  • Follow good housekeeping procedures.

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