Tree Planter

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.