Incident Prevention and Response Flashcards

When a worker is struck by a falling branch during tree removal, what is the FIRST action a crew member should take?

Answer: Ensure the scene is safe before approaching the injured worker

Scene safety must be confirmed before approaching an injured worker to prevent additional casualties.

Which type of Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) step focuses on identifying 'what could go wrong' for each task?

Answer: Hazard identification

Hazard identification is the JHA step where workers evaluate potential dangers associated with each discrete task.

A tree company's near-miss reporting system is MOST valuable because it:

Answer: Reveals systemic hazards before a serious injury occurs

Near-miss reports expose hazard patterns that can be corrected before they result in injury or fatality.

During a pre-job briefing, the crew identifies overhead power lines within the work zone. The BEST immediate action is to:

Answer: Contact the utility company to establish a safe approach distance before work begins

Utility companies must be contacted to establish minimum approach distances and may need to de-energize or insulate lines.

Which hierarchy of controls is considered MOST effective at eliminating a workplace hazard?

Answer: Elimination

Elimination removes the hazard entirely and is the most effective control because it does not rely on human behavior or equipment.

An arborist notices that a co-worker is operating a chainsaw without chaps. Under OSHA's General Duty Clause, what responsibility does the arborist have?

Answer: Report the observation to the crew leader or supervisor

Workers have a duty to report recognized hazards to supervisors so corrective action can be taken.

What is the purpose of the 'exclusion zone' established during tree felling operations?

Answer: To keep all non-essential personnel clear of the area where a tree or limbs may fall

An exclusion zone prevents bystanders and crew members from being struck by falling trees, limbs, or debris.