During the height of the coronavirus outbreak, many companies across the world were forced to shut down or scale back operations. Among those were tree-related services, including arborists, tree loppers, stump grinders and landscaping businesses. Several months of shutdown have resulted in slowing the spread of COVID-19, and this has provided an opportunity for tree service companies to restart their operations (while putting safety precautions in place).
If you're looking to have a tree cut down, trimmed or pruned, make sure your arborist has implemented these four safety steps while working on your property.
1. Social distancing when providing estimates
Minimising human contact is one of the most effective ways of slowing the spread of COVID-19. But how can this be done when you need a detailed estimate for tree removal? Technology makes it possible for you to receive an accurate estimate with minimal contact from the arborist team.
The workers can survey your property, measure tree dimensions, and provide a detailed quote while maintaining a safe distance. And due to the outdoor nature of tree services, the risk of viral particles spreading is greatly reduced when social distancing guidelines are met.
2. Use of PPE during completion of actual work
In addition to social distancing, your arborist should also use appropriate equipment during the job. Removing a tree in the midst of a global pandemic will require additional planning. All workers should have face coverings, protective hats, gloves and boots while working on your premises. Minimising the risk of injury will also reduce the likelihood of infections spreading.
A good way of supporting your arborist is providing sanitation stations near the worksite. This could be soap and water or hand sanitizers that workers can use when taking breaks.
3. Minimising repetitive site visits
Arborists can also use a wide variety of techniques to complete the job in as few visits as possible. Because repetitive visits increase the risk of infection, your arborist should have a plan for maximising progress every day they're on site. This may include assigning teams to work on different parts of the tree removal project, such as cutting down branches or crown lifting before the actual tree is brought down.
4. Testing employees regularly
Your arborist should also test their employees often so that positive cases can be detected early. Any worker who's displaying symptoms shouldn't be on-site, and regular tests can help identify asymptomatic cases. Testing also provides insight into the number of infections in your area. If the outbreak increases, you may choose to reschedule the tree servicing work unless it's an emergency (such as a tree that might fall on your home).
Contact arborists in your area to learn more.
Share27 July 2020
Seeing a tree die can be sad, especially if it's the only shade tree in your yard, a tree you grew up climbing or a once bountiful fruit tree. However, surprisingly, many trees that people seem to give up on can actually be saved. I hate the idea of anyone losing a tree, so I decided to start a blog. This blog is going to have tips I have learned as a lifelong gardener as well as things I have learned while researching trees and botany in general. I hope you like these posts and that they eventually help you save a few trees!
