Approved Code of Practice
Safety and Health
in Tree Work
Part Two:
MAINTENANCE OF TREES AROUND POWER LINES
Published by
The Department of Labour
Wellington • New Zealand
First Published February 1996
This revision (Publisher insert date details)
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 1 of 75
CONTENTS
CONTENTS ................................................................................................2
NOTICE OF ISSUE .....................................................................................5
FOREWORD ..............................................................................................6
THE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN EMPLOYMENT ACT 1992 .............................................7
ABOUT THIS CODE....................................................................................8
STRUCTURE ..............................................................................................8
TERMINOLOGY AND DEFINED TERMS ..................................................................8
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ....................................................................................8
FURTHER INFORMATION ................................................................................8
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS ........................................................9
1
SCOPE, PURPOSE AND APPLICATION ..............................................12
Scope .............................................................................................. 12
Purpose ........................................................................................... 12
Application ....................................................................................... 12
References ....................................................................................... 13
Variations......................................................................................... 13
PART A VEGETATION CONTROL WORK PRACTICES.................................14
A1
ELECTRICAL HAZARDS .................................................................15
A1.1
A1.2
General .................................................................................. 15
Electrical Hazards .................................................................... 15
A2
RESPONSIBLE PERSONS...............................................................17
A3
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................17
A3.1
A3.2
A3.3
A3.4
A3.5
A3.6
A3.7
A3.8
A3.9
A4
EWPS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT ....................................................21
A4.1
A4.2
A4.3
A4.4
A4.5
A4.6
A5
Key Safe Practices for Utility Arborists in Vegetation Control Work .. 17
Competence and Supervision for Utility Arborists.......................... 18
Notifications............................................................................ 19
Adverse Weather Conditions...................................................... 19
Protective Clothing and Equipment at Vegetation Control Work Sites
19
First Aid ................................................................................. 20
Incident Emergency and Rescue Procedures ................................ 20
Pedestrian and Vehicle Traffic .................................................... 20
Fire Protection for Vegetation Control Work ................................. 20
Elevating Work Platform Vehicles (EWPs) in Vegetation Control ...... 21
Safety Harnesses..................................................................... 23
Measuring Sticks or Rods .......................................................... 24
Rope...................................................................................... 24
Ladders Within the Vegetation Control Zone ................................ 25
Pruning Tools .......................................................................... 25
MINIMUM APPROACH DISTANCES................................................25
A5.1
General .................................................................................. 25
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 2 of 75
A5.2
A5.3
A6
Utility Arborists Carrying Out Vegetation Control Work .................. 29
Minimum Approach Distances for Ordinary Persons...................... 37
WORK METHODS IN THE ORDINARY PERSON ZONE .....................37
A7
UTILITY ARBORIST WORK METHODS WITHIN THE VEGETATION
CONTROL ZONE ......................................................................................39
A7.1
A7.2
A7.3
A7.4
A7.5
A7.6
A7.7
A7.8
A7.9
A8
General .................................................................................. 39
Work Procedure Conformance and Availability.............................. 40
Work Team Composition ........................................................... 40
Before Starting Work................................................................ 40
Role of Safety Observers .......................................................... 41
During Work ........................................................................... 42
Safe pruning and felling............................................................ 43
Weather conditions .................................................................. 44
Procedures In The Event of an Emergency or Incident................... 44
UTILITY ARBORIST INSULATED TOOL WORK ...............................45
A8.1
A8.2
A8.3
A8.4
A8.5
A8.6
A8.7
A8.8
A8.9
Clearing Encroaching Vegetation Restriction ................................ 45
Tree Climbing Restriction .......................................................... 45
Insulated Tools and Equipment .................................................. 45
Work Team Composition ........................................................... 45
Before Commencing Work......................................................... 45
During Work ........................................................................... 46
Ladders.................................................................................. 47
Care and Use of Tools and Equipment......................................... 47
Routine Testing and Inspection .................................................. 48
PART B MANAGEMENT STANDARDS AND PRACTICES B1
REQUIREMENTS
B1
LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................50
B1.1
B1.2
B2
Safety of Power Lines and Work with Vegetation .......................... 50
Notifications............................................................................ 50
KEY SAFETY MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS.................................52
B2.1
B2.2
B3
LEGISLATIVE
49
Key Requirements in Work with Vegetation ................................. 52
General Safety Management ..................................................... 53
COMPETENCE AND TRAINING.......................................................55
B3.1 Utility Arborist Competency....................................................... 55
B3.2 Utility Arborist Training Subjects ................................................ 55
B3.3 Providing Utility Arborist Training ............................................... 57
B3.4 Utility Arborist Refresher Training .............................................. 57
B3.5 Competence Limitations and Work Restrictions ............................ 58
B3.6 Competency Maintenance and Field Assessments ......................... 58
B3.7 Records.................................................................................. 58
B3.8 Certification ............................................................................ 59
B3.9 Supervisor Competence ............................................................ 60
B3.10 Supervisor Training, Competency Maintenance, Certificates and
Records ........................................................................................... 60
B3.11 Recognition of Line Mechanics as Utility Arborists ......................... 61
B4
APPROVED WORK PROCEDURES...................................................62
B4.1
B4.2
B5
Development, Proving and Review ............................................. 62
Documentation........................................................................ 62
INSULATED TOOL WORK STANDARDS ..........................................62
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 3 of 75
B5.1
B5.2
B5.3
B5.4
B5.5
B6
Selection and Management ....................................................... 62
Insulated Tool and Equipment Testing ........................................ 63
Insulated Tool Work Manual ...................................................... 63
Standards............................................................................... 63
Electrical protection procedures ................................................. 64
PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY AND INCIDENT PROCEDURES..65
B6.1
B6.2
Public Safety ........................................................................... 65
Emergency and Incident Procedures ........................................... 65
B7
AUDITS ........................................................................................65
B8
TRANSITION PROVISIONS ...........................................................66
B8.1
B8.2
B8.3
B8.4
Transition for “Competent Workers” ........................................... 66
Existing and New Trainees ........................................................ 66
Recognition of Qualified Electrical Worker Experience .................... 66
Minimum Approach Distances ...........Error! Bookmark not defined.
APPENDIX 1: LAWS, STANDARDS AND GUIDES ......................................67
1. NEW ZEALAND STATUTES ........................................................................ 67
2. STANDARDS ........................................................................................ 67
3. CODES OF PRACTICE .............................................................................. 68
4. ELECTRICITY SUPPLY INDUSTRY AND OTHER STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES ............... 68
APPENDIX 2: SUMMARY OF THE HEALTH AND SAFETY IN EMPLOYMENT
ACT 1992................................................................................................70
REGULATIONS ......................................................................................... 70
APPROVED CODES OF PRACTICE ..................................................................... 71
EMPLOYERS’ DUTIES .................................................................................. 71
HAZARD MANAGEMENT ............................................................................... 71
INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYEES AND HEALTH AND SAFETY REPRESENTATIVES ................... 72
TRAINING AND SUPERVISION OF EMPLOYEES ....................................................... 73
EMPLOYERS TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR EMPLOYEE PARTICIPATION....................... 73
RESPONSIBILITY FOR EMPLOYEES’ WORK ACTIVITIES ............................................. 73
DEEMED EMPLOYEES .................................................................................. 74
DUTIES OF EMPLOYEES ............................................................................... 74
THE SELF-EMPLOYED .................................................................................. 74
PRINCIPALS ............................................................................................ 74
HIRERS, SELLERS AND SUPPLIERS OF PLANT ....................................................... 74
PERSONS IN CONTROL OF A PLACE OF WORK ....................................................... 75
ACCIDENTS AND SERIOUS HARM (RECORDING AND NOTIFICATION) ............................. 75
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 4 of 75
NOTICE OF ISSUE
I have issued this Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health
in Tree Work — Part Two: Maintenance of Trees Around Power
Lines, being a statement of preferred work practices or
arrangements for the purpose of ensuring the health and safety of
persons to which this Code applies and persons who may be
affected by the activities of this Code.
Chris Blake
Secretary of Labour
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 5 of 75
FOREWORD
I have approved this statement of preferred work practices, which is
an Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Tree Work —
Part Two: Maintenance of Trees Around Power Lines under section
20 of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992. When a code
is approved, a Court may have regard to it in relation to compliance
with the relevant sections of the Health and Safety in Employment
Act. This means that if an employer in an industry or using a
process to which an approved code applies can show compliance
with that code in all matters it covers, a Court may consider this to
be compliance with the provisions of the Act to which the code
relates.
Hon Trevor Mallard
Minister of Labour
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 6 of 75
The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992
The object of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (the Act) is to
prevent harm to all people at work and people in, or in the vicinity of a place of
work.
The Act creates duties for most people connected with places of work:
(a)
Employers
(b)
Employees (including trainees and people gaining work experience and
volunteers)
(c)
Self-employed
(d)
Principals to contracts
(e)
Persons who control a place of work
(f)
Hirers, sellers and suppliers of plant
The Act authorises the creation of Regulations to impose duties and Codes of
Practice as statements of preferred practice.
The Act also requires, among other things:
(a)
The management of hazards
(b)
Information, training and supervision for employees
(c)
Training and supervision of employees
(d)
Opportunities for employee participation
(e)
Recording and notification of accidents
A summary of the Health and Safety In Employment Act 1992 is available at
Appendix 2 of this Code.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 7 of 75
ABOUT THIS CODE
Structure
This Code is in two parts to better target the information it contains. Part A
identifies the preferred work practices for supervisors, employees and others
working in the field. Part B identifies the preferred management standards and
practices in support of Part A for asset managers, service providers and others.
Part B expands on a number of the requirements that are mentioned briefly in
Part A for field users. Both Parts must be taken in conjunction.
Use of the term “this Code” applies to the entire Code, including the opening
sections and Parts A and B.
Terminology and Defined Terms
Defined terms are listed in the “Definitions and Abbreviations” section and are
italicized where the particular meaning applies throughout the Code.
The term “the Department” or “Department” throughout refers to the Department
of Labour Workplace Services.
Acknowledgement
The Department of Labour acknowledges the assistance given by the power and
arboriculture industry representatives in developing the first edition of this Code.
The Department also commends the Trees Code Part Two Work Group convened
by the Electricity Engineers Association of New Zealand for its contribution in
developing this revised edition. This Work Group comprised regulatory
representatives, representatives of electric line operators and owners, service
providers who carry out the work and The New Zealand Arboriculture Association
/32nd chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture Incorporated.
Further Information
Further information on the occupational health and safety aspects of forestry
work is available from the nearest Department office and the Department web
site www.osh.govt.nz. The site includes Department contact and address details.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 8 of 75
DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Arborists’ Code Part 1: Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Tree Work —
Part 1: Arboriculture (available from Department branch offices).
Asset manager: An organisation or person which owns and/or which is
responsible and accountable for the electricity network adjacent to the vegetation
to be worked on. An asset manager may also be a service provider.
Competent: Having the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to carry out
work safely and to the requirements of this Code.
Earthed: Effectively connected to the general mass of earth.
Electrical hazard: A source of potential harm arising where any person or worker,
tool, mobile plant or equipment, or any conductive object (including vegetation)
or any conductive matter (including herbicide) encroaches the minimum approach
distances as specified in appropriate parts of this Code.
Electricity network: means transmission and distribution systems for conveying
or controlling the conveyance of electricity between generators’ points of
connection and customers’ points of connection.
EWP: An elevating work platform vehicle or any other aerial lift equipment for
which the height is adjustable by powered means.
Live: Any electrical equipment or item having a potential difference between it
and earth. It includes equipment which is isolated and de-energised but not
earthed.
Minimum approach distance (MAD): The closest distance, specified for voltage, to
which a person, anything they hold (e.g. hand tools or hand held equipment) or
anything they are in contact with (e.g. vegetation), or to which any object (e.g.
mobile plant or equipment or any attachments thereto) may approach a live
power line. The minimum approach distances for ordinary persons are specified
in Section A5.3 of this Code. The minimum approach distances for utility
arborists and the mobile plant they use while working with vegetation are
specified in Table 1 of this Code.
Minimum tool insulation distance: The minimum effective length of exposed
insulating material that forms the insulating tool, commensurate with the voltage
of the power line around which vegetation is being trimmed. The ‘effective
length’ is measured between the conductive parts of the insulated tool or between
the metal end tool fitting and the designed operator hand mark as appropriate.
Where the insulated tool comprises insulated sections joined by metal couplings,
the ‘effective length’ is measured by the sum of the insulating lengths not bridged
by the metal couplings.
Ordinary person: in this Code, any person/s (including any arborist) who is not
competent to this Code. Qualified electrical workers approved by an asset
manager to do any work with vegetation are not ordinary persons.
OTJ Training: On-The-Job training (as distinct from formal training in a class or
group setting)
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 9 of 75
Power line: Any overhead electric conductor including service mains (including
fittings supporting, or connected to those conductors), that are used, or intended
to be used, in or in connection with the supply of electricity:
From the outgoing terminals of a generating station, building enclosure, or
other structure, to the incoming terminals of any other building, enclosure
or other structure;
Including all overhead electric mains such as service, power company or
customer mains, or sub mains, whether owned by an asset manager or
private owner.
Note: In this Code all use of the term “power line” has the meaning of live
overhead electric conductors, unless specifically mentioned otherwise.
Qualified Electrical Worker: Any registered person holding a current practicing
license, or any employee currently competent to carry out prescribed electrical
work under an employer license, pursuant to the Electricity Act 1992.
Responsible Person: Persons other than asset managers or service providers, for
example councils, or factory, farm or any other property owners or managers, or
business proprietors, who own or have control over any trees in the vicinity of
any power lines, or who own or have control over any privately owned power
lines that are not part of any electricity network, and who may arrange or require
from time to time the carrying out of vegetation control work at a place of work.
Service Provider: an organisation, including any asset manager, employer or self
employed, who undertakes vegetation control work.
SM-EI: Safety Manual – Electricity Industry (including Parts 1 and 2, and Part 3.
Depending on the context, the Code narrative may refer to a particular Part).
Supervisor: The utility arborist Level 1 or 2, whether or not (s)he is titled a
‘supervisor’ by occupation, who is certificated to be and designated the person in
charge of the work at the place where it is performed.
Tertiary Education Organisation: Tertiary Education Organisation. A polytechnic,
private training establishment (PTE), industry standard setting body (ITO) or
registered tertiary teaching organisation accredited to deliver NZQA aligned
industry standards and assessments.
Trainee: An employee undertaking work who is not yet competent and who is
supervised by someone who is.
Trainer: A person certificated by a Tertiary Education Organisation as currently
competent to deliver training to the outcomes required by this Code. Before
being certificated as a trainer for utility arborists’ competencies he or she must
satisfy the following minimum requirements: The trainer must have:
a)
Current competency to the requirements of this Code and current
competency in the work procedures being taught, and
b)
A minimum of 12 months documented work experience in vegetation
control near power lines, and
c)
Competency in instructing techniques, and
d)
Meet any other trainer requirements that the TEO might require.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 10 of 75
Utility Arborist: A worker whose training, qualifications, experience and ongoing
evaluation ensures competency in both arboriculture and electrical safety
requirements, and proficiency in the relevant work skills necessary to ensure safe
outcomes for personnel, power lines and the work with vegetation and who is
thereby designated as a utility arborist under this Code, as further described in
Section B3. There are two levels of utility arborist – Level 1 and Level 2, the
different requirements for which are specified in Section B3.1.
Vegetation: Any living or non-living flora or any part of that flora.
Vegetation control: In this Code means:
a)
b)
Maintenance of vegetation by utility arborists, and associated work
processes, where any part of the vegetation encroaches, or may encroach
due to any cause or due to any work process:
i)
4 metres from any power lines up to 110kV or 6 metres from power
lines at 220kV a.c. or 135kV d.c. and above, or
ii)
The vegetation control zone, or
The use of mobile plant by utility arborists for work with vegetation
(whether or not the vegetation encroaches the above distances), where
use of the mobile plant may potentially encroach 4 metres from the power
lines up to 110kV or 6 metres from power lines at 220kV a.c. or 135kV
d.c. and above (whether or not the vegetation itself encroaches the above
distances).
Note: Mobile plant includes mechanical hedge or shelter belt trimmers. At
the time of this Code development, a Department document providing
guidance on mechanical hedge and shelter belt trimmers was under
development.
Vegetation control zone: the zone surrounding the power lines, bounded by the
appropriate minimum approach distance for ordinary persons (being 4 metres for
voltages up to 110 kV and 6 metres for voltages above 110 kV) and boundary
lines tangential to the minimum approach distance, drawn at 45 degree angles
away from either side of the power lines, as illustrated by Figure 3.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 11 of 75
1 SCOPE, PURPOSE AND APPLICATION
Scope
This Code contains minimum safety requirements for the maintenance of
vegetation in close proximity to any live power lines, whether part of an electricity
network or privately owned power line, where the work activity is covered by the
Health and Safety in Employment Act for any of the parties to the work. This
Code should be read in conjunction with the Arborists’ Code Part 1, asset
manager requirements appropriate to any of the work, and the service provider’s
work processes and procedures.
The Code pertains to work in connection with maintaining or clearing vegetation
in the vicinity of power lines.
Purpose
This Code is a statement of preferred work practices for responsible persons,
service providers, utility arborists and asset managers in relation to vegetation
control work by utility arborists. It supports their achieving safe outcomes for
persons and power supplies in the course of this work. The Code also provides
preferred work practices for the electrical safety of ordinary persons working with
vegetation in the vicinity of power lines.
Application
This Code primarily applies to all instances of work with vegetation near power
lines where the Code requires the work to be done by utility arborists. In relation
to this, the main body of the Code addresses the application to responsible
persons, service providers, utility arborists and asset managers. Part A of the
Code is oriented to preferred work practices in the field, and Part B is oriented to
asset manager and service provider management practices in particular. The
Code also applies to ordinary persons by recommending preferred work practices
for their avoiding electrical hazards.
Asset manager and service provider management must incorporate the provisions
appropriate to each in this Code into their policies and procedures. Responsible
persons must implement procedures appropriate to their role in managing or
requiring vegetation control work.
Utility arborist work practices are applicable across all power lines, whether
electricity network or privately owned power lines. Since most of the vegetation
control work is around electricity networks, requirements specific to these are
integrated into the preferred work practices for utility arborists. Examples are:
requirements to follow reclose block procedures, following asset manager policy
regarding trees in contact or directions regarding use of safety observers or use
of mobile plant, heeding asset manager advice about their electricity network
assets or about applying temporary earths etc. While some private power line
owners may be equipped and competent to require such practices, most are not.
They will usually rely on service provider and utility arborist advice and their use
of appropriate work practices in accordance with this Code when clearing
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 12 of 75
vegetation from around such power lines. Utility arborists and service providers
must apply the preferred work practices in this Code appropriate to the category
of power lines whether to privately owned power lines or to those forming part of
an electricity network.
Additionally the Code acknowledges that electricity network asset managers may
exercise other options for clearing vegetation, for example by qualified electrical
workers working to approved procedures (including in emergencies) or by other
suitable means if the power lines have been disconnected and made safe.
The Code also includes criteria for qualified electrical workers such as line
mechanics to be formally recognised as utility arborists where this particular
qualification is sought. Such employees would need to be made clear at the work
preparation stage concerning the status under which they will carry out any
particular assigned work with vegetation, whether as qualified electrical workers
working to asset manager requirements, or as utility arborists working to
vegetation control procedures required in this Code.
References
This Code refers to numerous other publications such as various standards, codes
and industry and other guides. Users of this Code must refer to current editions
of these references.
Variations
Any Code other than this Code used for vegetation control work must meet or
exceed the requirements of this Code, and may be used only with the approval of
the asset manager, the service provider and with the agreement of the
employees conducting the work.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 13 of 75
PART A
VEGETATION CONTROL WORK
PRACTICES
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 14 of 75
A1 ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
A1.1 General
A1.1.1
Vegetation close to power lines is hazardous to these assets and the
availability of power supply. The electrical hazard also involves
potential for serious harm to persons who trim or remove vegetation
from around power lines and to members of the public close by.
A1.1.2
Consider all power lines and underground conductors as being live until
isolated and earthed and tested to ensure that they are isolated.
A1.1.3
The minimum controls to avoid harm from hazards associated with
vegetation around power lines are developed in the narrative, tables
and figures in this Code.
A1.2 Electrical Hazards
A1.2.1
Vegetation touching or near to touching live power lines is an electrical
hazard. The vegetation may become live and may also be involved in
flashover from the conductors.
A1.2.2
Vegetation in contact with or close proximity to conductors can be live
with little or no visual sign of this. Vegetation that is or has been in
contact with conductors may have burned or damaged leaves or
branches at the point of contact.
A1.2.3
Where any vegetation becomes live from close proximity to power
lines, including during flashover, the surrounding ground becomes a
“pool” of varying voltage, or “potential difference”, dissipating out from
the affected tree. Any person or animal stepping across the “pool”
while the voltage exists can be seriously harmed by electric shock.
Anyone touching different parts of live vegetation, the ground or
mobile plant close by, may also be seriously harmed by electric shock
from the “potential difference” across the points of contact.
The same principles apply to mobile plant that accidentally contacts
live conductors or vegetation that has become livened. Figure 1
illustrates circumstances typical of “potential difference” step and
touch hazards.
A1.2.4
Other parts of this Code specify minimum requirements to avoid
“potential difference” hazards arising in the first place. The most basic
of these is keeping vegetation and mobile plant away from power lines.
However “potential difference” situations can arise unexpectedly due to
uncontrolled circumstances. Utility arborists must understand these
hazards and how to avoid harm if they arise.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 15 of 75
A1.2.5
The asset manager should be able to provide “potential difference”
hazard information that is specific to its network. More information
about step and touch potential, albeit related to fallen conductors, is in
Parts 9.5 and 9.6 of the EEANZ Line Mechanics Handbook.
Figure 1: Electrical hazards from step and touch potential.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 16 of 75
A2 RESPONSIBLE PERSONS
Responsible persons requiring or arranging the clearing of vegetation within the
vegetation control zone (see Figure 3) must require this to be done as vegetation
control work by utility arborists in accordance with this Code. If for any reason
utility arborists cannot or are restricted from doing the work, liaise with the
person who controls the power lines and arrange for the vegetation to be cleared
by alternative means recommended in this Code. Options may include using an
appropriate qualified electrical worker (whether or not under the direction of an
asset manager) to clear the vegetation, or by arranging for a qualified electrical
worker to disconnect the power lines and make them safe so that arborists or
other appropriate persons can safely clear the vegetation.
A3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A3.1 Key Safe Practices for Utility Arborists in Vegetation
Control Work
A3.1.1
Key practices for achieving electrical and general safety in vegetation
control work are:
(a)
Obtain the asset manager’s consent for work on vegetation near
to power lines in an electricity network and, similarly, liaise with
the private owner when the work is around privately owned
power lines.
(b)
Apply the preferred work practices in this Code appropriate to
the category of power lines, whether to electricity network
power lines or to privately owned power lines.
(c)
Use only vegetation control work procedures which are written
and which are approved by the service provider.
(d)
Utility arborists must be currently competent to the
requirements of this Code.
(e)
Vegetation control work must be supervised at each work place
by a designated supervisor.
(f)
Consider all power lines as being live unless formally stated
otherwise.
(g)
Work at all times from a position of earth potential.
(h)
Utility arborists and the plant and equipment in use must not
encroach the appropriate minimum approach distances for line
voltages specified in Table 1 of this Code.
(i)
Treat all parts of any vegetation that is inside the utility arborist
minimum approach distance as being live.
(j)
Follow the asset manager’s policy for clearing vegetation that is
at or inside the utility arborist minimum approach distance. .
(k)
Do not climb any tree that encroaches the utility arborist MAD.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 17 of 75
A3.1.2
(l)
Apply earths to EWPs and towed attachments where these are
required, before raising the EWP boom to the work position.
Where earths are required but it is considered impracticable to
apply these for any reason, consult with the asset manager
before proceeding with the work.
(m)
Obtain the asset manager’s consent, or, as the case may be,
liaise with the private power line owner, before doing any
insulated tool procedure.
(n)
Insulated tools, used by utility arborists Level 2 under approved
insulated tool procedures, may encroach the utility arborist
minimum approach distance provided that the persons doing
the work do not encroach the utility arborist minimum approach
distance, and provided that the tools do not contact the live
power lines at any time.
Employees must:
(a)
Be familiar with electrical hazards and the related information in
this Code.
(b)
Understand the provisions of this Code and the safe work
practices to be followed.
(c)
Understand the hazards specific to each work place and how to
avoid harm from these.
(d)
Carry out instructions and the work properly, with safe conduct
and attitude.
(e)
Work with due consideration for personal safety and that of
others nearby at all times.
(f)
Ask when in doubt.
(g)
Rectify or report unsafe conditions.
(h)
Be familiar with emergency and incident response procedures.
(i)
Report accidents, injuries and near misses, and promptly attend
to injuries.
(j)
Report on machinery and equipment that is unsafe.
(k)
Keep the workplace as tidy and organized as practicable.
(l)
Use only approved tools, machinery and safety equipment that
is suitable for the task and which has properly functioning
safeguards where these are required.
(m)
Inspect safety equipment each day before use, and use, store
and maintain it in a safe condition
(n)
Properly use tools and equipment and operate all vehicles
safely.
(o)
Wear and use protective clothing and equipment suited to the
task.
(p)
Obey all safety rules and signs.
A3.2 Competence and Supervision for Utility Arborists
A3.2.1
Utility arborists and supervisors must be competent to the
requirements of Section B3.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 18 of 75
A3.2.2
A designated supervisor must supervise vegetation control work at
each place where it is performed in accordance with the standard and
practice of supervision in this Code.
A3.2.3
The supervisor must plan the work and conduct it to the requirements
of this Code as a minimum.
A3.2.4
Identify and control the hazards associated with the work at each work
place. Discuss the work procedures, the hazards and the hazard
controls with the work team so that these are understood by all
members of the team before the work begins.
A3.2.5
Utility arborists may only do vegetation control work for which they are
currently competent. Any work activity for which they are not
currently competent must be directly supervised by a competent
person.
A3.2.6
Trainee utility arborists undergoing OTJ training in the work team must
be directly supervised by a utility arborist for the duration of the work,
one supervising utility arborist per trainee. In the case of a utility
arborist being trained in Insulated Tool Procedures, the trainee must
be supervised by a utility arborist Level 2.
A3.2.7
Utility arborists must not do work that they consider likely to cause
them serious harm.
A3.3 Notifications
Vegetation control work must be covered by Notification to the Department by
the service provider. (See Section B1.2).
A3.4 Adverse Weather Conditions
All procedures and minimum approach distances shown in this Code apply to
good weather and working conditions. Assess and take action to avoid hazards
from adverse weather conditions such as lightning, high winds, rain, fog, snow or
sleet. (See Section A7.8).
A3.5 Protective Clothing and Equipment at Vegetation
Control Work Sites
A3.5.1
Use personal protective clothing and equipment appropriate to the
work in accordance with the service provider’s and asset manager’s
requirements. The equipment and its use must conform to the
appropriate NZ Standards, or equivalent, and appropriate Guides listed
in Appendix 1. In particular:
(a)
Wear head protection at all times. Do not rely on the helmet
for protection from electric shocks.
(b)
Wear safety footwear that provides ankle support and that has
moulded non-conductive soles and protective toe caps.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 19 of 75
(c)
Wear safety leg protection at all times while using chainsaws.
(d)
For work near power lines use protective clothing that gives full
body cover, including cover of the arms and legs. As a
minimum, use clothing made of cotton drill or cotton-rich
blended materials. These give some protection against
accidental contact and electrical burns from arcing power lines.
(e)
Wear hearing protection for protection from harmful levels of
noise. Class 5 or minimum of Class 4 hearing protection is
recommended as appropriate for use with equipment such as
chainsaws. SM-EI 2.1304 and Arborist Code Part 1 provide
guidance on hearing protection.
(f)
Wear appropriate eye protection at all times.
(g)
Climbing activity and the climbing equipment used must
conform to the Arborists' Code Part 1, Sections 25 to 31
“Climbing and Climbing Equipment”.
A3.6 First Aid
Have available an adequately stocked and maintained first aid kit at the
vegetation control work site. Each utility arborist must be instructed in its use.
The kit must at least conform to the Arborists' Code Part 1.
A3.7 Incident Emergency and Rescue Procedures
Utility arborists must be competent in appropriate emergency and incident
procedures and also rescue procedures for work above ground, including EWP
rescue where appropriate. (See Section A7.9 and Section B6.2).
A3.8 Pedestrian and Vehicle Traffic
Control public access to the work site, including pedestrian and vehicular traffic at
all times while work is in progress. (See Section A 7.4.8).
A3.9 Fire Protection for Vegetation Control Work
A3.9.1
Capability and equipment to extinguish fires must conform to local and
regional authority requirements. Arborist Code Part 1 provides
additional information.
A3.9.2
Follow any particular requirements from fire authorities when working
in special areas such as dry forests, Department of Conservation areas,
reserves, etc.
A3.9.3
Re-fill petroleum-powered equipment only after it has been stopped.
Remove any spilled fuel from the equipment before restarting.
A3.9.4
Store, handle and dispense flammable liquids only from approved
safety containers.
A3.9.5
Smoking is prohibited when handling or working around any flammable
liquid.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 20 of 75
A4 EWPS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT
A4.1 Elevating Work Platform Vehicles (EWPs) in
Vegetation Control
EWPs and their use for vegetation control work must conform to the
Department’s Approved Code of Practice for Power-Operated Elevating Work
Platforms. Additional requirements are contained in the SM-EI and the EEANZ
“Guide for the Operation and Maintenance of Elevating Work Platforms”. SM-EI
2.905 and 3.712 specify requirements for the use of mobile plant and vehicles in
the vicinity of power lines, however the reduced distances applicable in
vegetation control work are specified in Table 1, Section A5.2.3 of this Code.
A4.1.1
A4.1.2
EWP Suitability for Purpose
(a)
Select EWP’s appropriate for the required vegetation control
work. Selection must include consideration of EWP insulating
properties appropriate to the planned task.
(b)
Where selection determines that insulated EWP/s must be used,
these must conform to ANSI/SIA A92.2 insulating and testing
requirements while being used for the work.
(c)
The non-insulated EWPs used in vegetation control work should
be fitted with non-conductive buckets or, if the buckets are
made of steel, non-conductive bucket liners must be fitted:
(i)
Check and maintain buckets and liners in accordance
with manufacturer’s instructions.
(ii)
Holes must not be drilled in the non-conductive buckets
or liners.
(d)
Buckets, platforms or booms of EWP equipment must be fitted
with an approved means of anchorage to which a safety harness
or lanyard can be secured.
(e)
Do not drill holes in EWP buckets unless the holes are necessary
for fittings or attachments and it can be shown that the holes
do not affect the mechanical integrity of the bucket.
When to Earth EWPs and Towed Attachments
Sections A5.2.2 and A5.2.3 specify minimum approach distances for
utility arborists and for mobile plant, and include requirements to
maintain separation from any vegetation where any part of this
encroaches the utility arborist minimum approach distance.
EWP’s, including any towed attachments, must be earthed:
(a)
Where there is any risk of the EWP/s, or persons, or any tools,
or vegetation to be worked on inadvertently encroaching the
utility arborist minimum approach distance or the required
separation from encroaching vegetation, or
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 21 of 75
A4.1.3
(b)
Where encroaching vegetation is to be cleared using approved
insulated tool procedures, or
(c)
For any conditions where any safety observer/s are required for
work involving EWP use in accordance with section A5.2.4.
Application of Earthing
Where earthing is required in accordance with A4.1.2, before raising
the boom within the vegetation control zone:
(a)
Earth the EWP chassis via a short appropriately rated earth
lead, temporary earth connection and earth spike driven to a
depth of at least 600mm;
(b)
Bond the chassis of any towed attachment to the EWP chassis;
(c)
If the towed attachment and EWP are not bonded, earth the
towed attachment separately as in (a) above;
(d)
For ground operated EWPs, bond a conductive mat or plate to
the EWP chassis for the operator position.
Where application of the required earths is considered impracticable for
any reason, consult with the asset manager before commencing the
work.
A4.1.4
Operating EWPs, Tow Attachments and Stand-Alone Plant
(a)
Operators of ground-operated EWPs must stand on the bonded
conductive mat or plate installed in accordance with A4.1.3.
(b)
Except as in (c) below, all persons at ground level other than
the EWP operator must stand well clear of the EWP and any
towed attachment during EWP positioning and operation within
the vegetation control zone.
(c)
Tow attachments such as wood chippers may be operated only
where there is no electrical hazard to the chipper operator. This
also excludes operating any tow-attached chippers during any
of the conditions under A4.1.2 (a) to (c).
(d)
Stand-alone wood chippers must be positioned and operated
well clear of any step and touch potential footprint at the work
site.
(e)
Warn members of the public to stay clear and use warning signs
and barriers where appropriate.
The EEA “Guide to Avoiding Electrical Hazards in the Use of Mobile
Plant Near Overhead Electric Lines” contains additional information on
preferred practices for use of EWPs in vegetation control work.
A4.1.5
Consent for Reduced Distance
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 22 of 75
(a)
A4.1.6
Section A5.2.3 requires the asset manager’s written consent to
operate EWP or other mobile plant over or closer than 4 metres
from any power line. Where the asset manager does consent to
this activity:
(i)
The asset manager should require written confirmation
that the work will be carried out in accordance with the
asset manager’s conditions, this Code, other relevant
industry guides and approved work procedures.
(ii)
A copy of the asset manager’s consent must be held on
site by the EWP operator.
Additional EWP Operating Requirements and Precautions
(a)
Chock wheels and correctly position outriggers or torsion bars
before using any EWP.
(b)
Wear a full body harness secured to the anchorage at all times
while in the bucket.
(c)
Buckets designed to hold one person must not have more than
one person in them.
(d)
While operating an EWP, look in the direction of bucket travel
and be aware of the boom in relation to other objects and
hazards.
(e)
Only use an EWP as a crane or hoist to lift and lower materials if
it is specifically designed to perform such operations.
(f)
Do not run booms or buckets into live power lines, cables,
poles, trees or other similar objects.
(g)
Do not run electric leads (for portable electrical appliances) or
electrically conductive hoses and pipes from the truck or the
ground to the bucket of an EWP.
(h)
Refuel portable equipment away from buckets. Do not carry
flammable liquid containers or liquids in bucket liners; there is a
risk of vapour pooling and subsequent fire or explosion.
(i)
Comply with vehicular and pedestrian control requirements,
including the requirements in Section B2.2.8, while operating
EWP booms over roads.
A4.2 Safety Harnesses
A4.2.1
Harnesses must conform to the relevant AS/NZS 1891 Standards or to
relevant English language standards issued by organisations that are
Member Bodies of the International Organisation for Standardisation
(ISO). If no suitable standard exists the service provider must ensure
that the equipment is certified by the supplier as fit for the purpose
intended.
A4.2.2
Use and maintain harnesses in accordance with the manufacturers'
instructions, relevant Standards, and Section 28 the Arborists' Code
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 23 of 75
Part 1. Additional guidance on personal fall arrest systems is
contained in the SM-EI 2.1307 and the EEANZ “Technical Guide for the
Use of Personal Fall Arrest Systems”
A4.2.3
Safety strops/flip lines attached to climbing harnesses must not be
made of or contain metal.
A4.3 Measuring Sticks or Rods
Measuring sticks must conform to the current edition EEANZ “Guide to Portable
Equipment for Work On or Near Conductors” including, for example, conformance
to design, material and dimension specifications, insulation acceptance testing,
marking, pre-use and periodic inspection, periodic testing, maintenance and
storage, and transport.
A4.4 Rope
A4.4.1
Rope is an item used only outside the utility arborist MAD for climbing,
securing or controlling vegetation, or moving materials in support of
the vegetation control work. Rope used to support vegetation control
work, including rope used to support approved insulated tool
procedures, must not be used within the utility arborist MAD.
A4.4.2
Rope used in vegetation control work must be fit for purpose, and
clean and dry to minimise electrical hazards in the event of accidental
contact with power lines.
A4.4.3
Store and handle rope in a way that ensures that the required
properties of the rope are maintained.
A4.4.4
Rope that forms an integral part of approved insulated tools must
conform to the requirements for insulated tools in this Code.
A4.4.5
Live line rope is specialist rope used only for live line procedures
covered in ECP 46 and is not required for use in vegetation control
work.
A4.4.6
Use all ropes in accordance with the requirements of section 27 of the
Arborists' Code Part 1.
A4.4.7
Do not use wire ropes and strops within 4 metres of a power line
without the permission of the asset manager.
A4.4.8
Control climbing ropes, particularly when placing them over climbing
crotches, to avoid accidental contact with power lines.
A4.4.9
Always direct ropes away from power lines, or control them to prevent
tail ends from swinging towards the power lines.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 24 of 75
A4.5 Ladders Within the Vegetation Control Zone
A4.5.1
Ladders may be used only outside the utility arborist minimum
approach distance.
A4.5.2
Use only wooden ladders that conform to AS/NZS 1892.2: 1992
“Portable Ladders – Timber”, or use non-conductive ladders made of a
material with strength equal to or better than the conforming wooden
ladders.
A4.5.3
Maintenance, care for, inspection, use and storage of ladders as for
vegetation control work must conform to Section 30 of the Arborists'
Code Part 1 and the current edition EEANZ “Guide to Portable
Equipment for Work On or Near Conductors” as appropriate.
A4.6 Pruning Tools
A4.6.1
Maintenance and use of all pruning tools must conform to the
manufacturers' operating instructions and the Arborists' Code Part 1.
A4.6.2
Place pole pruners and pole saws away from power lines. Do not hang
pole pruners and pole saws on power lines or cables.
A5 MINIMUM APPROACH DISTANCES
A5.1 General
A5.1.1
Utility arborists and ordinary persons must observe the separations
from power lines specified for each in this Section A5 of the Code.
A5.1.2
The minimum approach distances for persons and mobile plant are
specified for ideal environmental, weather and working conditions.
Allowances must be made for the effects of temperature, wind and
other environmental influences on power line sag and swing while
vegetation control work is in progress. In practice, extra safety
clearance should be allowed towards centre span to maintain the
required minimum approach distances at all times, as illustrated by
Figures 2a, 2b and 2c.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 25 of 75
Figure 2a: Conductor swing and sag
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 26 of 75
Figure 2b: Conductor swing and sag
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 27 of 75
Figure 2c: Conductor swing and sag
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 28 of 75
A5.2 Utility Arborists Carrying Out Vegetation Control
Work
A5.2.1
A5.2.2
Approval for the work
(a)
Obtain the asset manager’s consent for vegetation control work
to be done around their electricity network.
(b)
Liaise with any private owner for vegetation control work to be
done around their power line.
(c )
Only work procedures approved by the service provider may be
used for the work.
Utility Arborist Minimum Approach Distances
(a)
Table 1 Column A sets out the minimum approach distances for
utility arborists. These distances apply to all parts of the body,
clothing, and any handheld tools.
(b)
Factors such as trees on slopes or background lighting can
cause trees to appear more distant from power lines than they
actually are. Take measurements where there is any doubt
about the distance between any tree and the power line.
(c)
Where the vegetation encroaches or is for any reason likely to
encroach the utility arborists minimum approachdistance:
(d)
(i)
Treat the vegetation as being live.
(ii)
Maintain separation from the vegetation equivalent to
the minimum approach distance for line voltage.
(iii)
Liaise with the asset manager or private owner.
Where the asset manager’s policy requires, or the private owner
agrees to, the use of insulated tool procedures to clear the
encroaching vegetation:
(i)
Only utility arborist L2 may do this work using approved
insulated tools and procedures.
(ii)
Conduct the work from a position which is both outside
the minimum approach distance for utility arborists and
which also maintains a separation distance from the
encroaching (potentially live) vegetation equivalent to
the minimum approach distance applicable at the time.
The separation from the encroaching vegetation applies
until the vegetation has been trimmed to a position
outside the minimum approach distance, where the
electrical hazard is therefore eliminated.
(iii)
Only approved insulated tools may encroach the utility
arborists minimum approach distance and the separating
distance from the encroaching (potentially live)
vegetation.
Figure 3 illustrates the vegetation control zone within which utility
arborists work, and the utility arborist minimum approach distance that
may be penetrated only by insulated tools.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 29 of 75
Figure 4 illustrates the minimum approach distance, the corresponding
separation distance from encroaching (potentially live) vegetation, and
application of the distances during the use of insulated tools.
(e)
A5.2.3
(e)
Where it is impracticable to maintain the required separation
distance from the encroaching vegetation:
(i)
For an electricity network, liaise with the asset manager
and proceed according to their policy (see Section
B2.1(b)(i) and (ii)).
(ii)
For a privately owned power line, advise the owner on
options available to responsible persons (see Section
A2).
Utility arborist use of mobile plant for vegetation control
(a)
All mobile plant, including all EWPs or other machinery or any
load carried, must not operate over or approach closer than 4
metres to any power line, unless, in the case of electricity
network power lines, the asset manager consents to this with
conditions for the activity and the conditions are met.
(b)
Where the asset manager does consent to the above, the
minimum approach distances must be not less than those
stated in Table 1 Column B.
(c)
The consent and conditions from the asset manager, including
the applicable minimum approach distances, must be in writing.
(d)
EWPs must be earthed in accordance with Section A4.1.
In the case of privately owned power lines, since private owners generally do
not have the knowledge or experience to consent to closer approach with
safety conditions for mobile plant use, service providers must require the same
work practices with mobile plant that would reasonably be expected by asset
managers for similar work around electricity network power lines.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 30 of 75
Table 1. Minimum approach distances (“MAD”) for utility arborists
and reduced MAD for mobile plant use by utility arborists in
vegetation control.
Power Line Nominal
A. MAD in Metres for
B. Mobile Plant MAD with
Design Voltage
Utility Arborists
Asset Manager Consent
Not exceeding 1 kV a.c.
0.5
1.0
11 kV
1.0
1.0
22 kV
1.5
1.5
33 kV
1.5
1.5
50/66 kV
2.0
2.0
110 kV
3.0
3.0
220 kV
4.0
4.0
+ 135 kV d.c.
3.0
3.0
+ 270 kV d.c.
4.0
4.0
+ 350 kV d.c.
4.0
4.0
A5.2.4
Appointment of Safety Observers
(a)
Safety Observers must be appointed in accordance with the
requirements of SM-EI 3.708 and this Code.
(b)
In vegetation control work, appoint Safety Observers where:
(c)
(i)
Utility arborists, trees or non-insulated tools they are
working with are at risk of encroaching the utility
arborist minimum approach distance for the line voltage
(see Table 1 column A), or
(ii)
There is a risk of mobile plant encroaching reduced
mobile plant minimum approach distances (Table 1
Column B), or
(iii)
As required by the asset manager for the use of mobile
plant (e.g. for work above conductors), or
(iv)
During insulated tool work:
•
Where there is a risk of any part of a utility arborists
body encroaching the utility arborist minimum
approach distance or
•
Where insulated tools, parts of a utility arborist’s
body or trees may contact a live conductor, or
•
Where approved insulated tool procedures require
Safety Observer appointment.
More than one Safety Observer may be appointed where the
work position and complexity require this.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 31 of 75
(d)
Safety Observers must be competent in the work they observe.
(e)
Trainees or non-competent persons must not carry out the
Safety Observer role.
(f)
Section A7.5 details the role of the Safety Observer during
vegetation control work.
Figure 5 “Utility arborist activities in the vegetation control zone” illustrates key
examples of permitted and prohibited activities for utility arborists Level 1 (UAL
1) and Level 2 (UAL 2).
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 32 of 75
Figure 3: Permissible zones and minimum approach distances for utility arborists
and ordinary persons.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 33 of 75
Figure 4: Illustration of utility arborist separation from (potentially) live tree
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 34 of 75
Figure 5: Utility arborist activities in the vegetation control zone
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 35 of 75
Figure 5 continued….
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 36 of 75
A5.3 Minimum Approach Distances for Ordinary Persons
A5.3.1
The minimum approach distance to power lines for ordinary persons;
vegetation they work with; tools, equipment, mobile plant and any
substances (e.g. herbicide sprays) they use; and falling vegetation;
are:
(a)
For circuit voltages 110 kV and below – 4 metres, and
(b)
For circuit voltages above 110 kV – 6 metres.
Additionally, ordinary persons and the above associated items must
remain outside the vegetation control zone illustrated in Figure 3.
A5.3.2
To avoid electrical hazards, ordinary persons must actively lookout to
avoid encroachment of the required separations from power lines and
the vegetation control zone at all times. Where these separations are
likely to be encroached:
(a)
If the power line forms part of an electricity network, the
ordinary persons must contact and seek guidance from the
asset manager before proceeding with the work. No exemption
is available for ordinary persons or mobile plant they use to
approach closer than 6 metres to 220 kV and 4 metres to 110
kV power lines, however the asset manager may consent to
work within the vegetation control zone for voltages 66kV and
below, including the use of any mobile plant, in accordance with
Section B2.1(f).
(b)
If the power line is owned by a private owner (e.g. farmer,
other business, or private dwelling owner), the work must be
done by a utility arborist and conform to the work practices in
this Code, or the power line must be disconnected and made
safe by an appropriate qualified electrical worker before any
ordinary persons proceed with the work.
Figure 6 “Illustration of Zones and Activities for Ordinary Persons” illustrates
permitted and prohibited zones and activities for ordinary persons.
A6 WORK METHODS IN THE ORDINARY
PERSON ZONE
This Section sets out the minimum requirements for work on any vegetation that
is in the ordinary person zone but where no part of the vegetation extends into
the vegetation control zone. These zones are illustrated in Figure 3 of this Code.
Section A5.3 specifies the required separation of ordinary persons from power
lines and the vegetation control zone.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 37 of 75
All work with vegetation in the ordinary person zone should be done in
accordance with the Arborists’ Code Part 1.
Figure 6: Illustrations of zones and activities for ordinary persons
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 38 of 75
A7 UTILITY ARBORIST WORK METHODS
WITHIN THE VEGETATION CONTROL
ZONE
This Section sets out particular requirements for utility arborists work in the
vegetation control zone, provided that no part of the vegetation encroaches or is
likely to encroach the utility arborist minimum approach distance. Section A8
deals with clearing encroaching vegetation where asset manager policy is to use
insulated tool procedures to do so, or, for privately owned power lines, where
insulated tool procedures are appropriate for the work.
A7.1 General
A7.1.1
Obtain the asset manager’s consent or, as the case may be, liaise with
the private power line owner, for work on vegetation near to power
lines.
A7.1.2
Vegetation control work must be done by utility arborists, including any
appropriately supervised trainees under OTJ training, working to
written procedures approved by the service provider.
A7.1.3
Vegetation control work at each work site must be supervised by a
designated supervisor who is competent to the requirements of this
Code.
A7.1.4
All work must conform to relevant requirements of the Arborists' Code
Part 1 and to relevant SM-EI requirements for work near power lines.
A7.1.5
Only work where light conditions are adequate for the task.
A7.1.6
Conform to the minimum approach distances specified in Section A5.2.
A7.1.7
In applying the minimum approach distances, allow for environmental
effects of wind and temperature on power line swing and sag.(see
Figures 2a, 2b and 2c).
A7.1.8
Fell trees in a direction away from power lines, unless an alternative
method is agreed with the asset manager or private power line owner
as the case may be.
A7.1.9
Treat any tree encroaching the utility arborist minimum approach
distance or in contact with any power line as being live:
(a)
Do not climb such trees; and
(b)
Maintain separation from these trees equivalent to the overhead
line voltage minimum approach distance; and
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 39 of 75
(c)
Liaise with the asset manager and follow their policy for these
situations, or as the case may be, liaise with the private power
line owner regarding available options conforming to this Code
for conducting the work.
A7.1.10
Do not operate EWPs or other mobile plant over or allow these to
approach closer than 4 metres to any power line without written
consent from the asset manager. The requirements for closer
approach are in Sections A5.2.3 and A4.1.5 of this Code.
A7.1.11
Reclose blocks may be applied for vegetation control work covered by
this Section (A7) of this Code if the asset manager or service provider
prefers this, although application of this measure must not in any way
substitute for strict adherence to the other requirements for the work.
A7.2 Work Procedure Conformance and Availability
A7.2.1
Current approved work procedures, including the procedure in use at
the time, must be readily available at each worksite.
A7.2.2
Work teams must conform strictly to approved work procedures. Minor
non-substantial procedural variations are permitted to suit specific task
requirements provided that these do not alter the basic structure of the
procedure, do not reduce applicable minimum approach distances and
do not compromise safety requirements or safe work performance in
any way. (Section B4 specifies development and documentation for
approved work procedures.
A7.3 Work Team Composition
A7.3.1
There must be at least the number of utility arborists required by the
work procedure present at the work site at all times while the
procedure is under way. Any trainee/s added to the work team for OTJ
training must be additional to the number required for the work
procedure. (See Section A3.2.6 for supervision of OTJ trainees).
A7.4 Before Starting Work
A7.4.1
Permission
Obtain the asset manager’s permission for the work to be carried out.
A7.4.2
Communications with the Asset Manager
Establish and maintain a reliable on-site two-way communication link
with the asset manager, and re-established it as soon as possible if it
is lost.
A7.4.3
Work Team Communications
Establish and maintain effective communication among all the
members of the work team, including trainees, for the duration of the
work.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 40 of 75
A7.4.4
Tree hazard identification
Inspect trees to identify hazards before entering, climbing or
performing any work on the trees.
A7.4.5
A7.4.6
Circuit and minimum approach distance identification
(a)
Identify and record the circuit/s and voltages around which
work is to be done and the minimum approach distance
required for the work.
(b)
The recorded minimum approach distance must not be less than
specified for relevant line voltage in Table 1 of this Code.
Earthing
Earth mobile plant including EWPs in accordance with Section A4.1 of
this Code.
A7.4.7
Job Briefing
(a)
(b)
(c)
A7.4.8
Hold a job briefing to discuss with the work team:
(i)
Why the work is to be done.
(ii)
What is to be accomplished.
(iii)
Work team composition
(iv)
How the work is to be carried out.
(v)
Individual roles and responsibilities.
(vi)
Hazards specific to each task and how these will be
controlled.
Address factors which affect the safety and progress of the
work, particularly:
(i)
Circuit identification of the power lines in close proximity
to the trees, and the associated voltage or voltages.
(ii)
The minimum approach distances for those voltages, as
specified in Section A5.
All of the above items including the name of the designated
supervisor must be documented.
Work Area Control
Where the public are in the vicinity of any operation, designate and
mark sufficient area around the vegetation (including any EWP in use)
as a work area. Marking must include erection of warning signs,
barricades, marker ropes or other appropriate and effective methods.
Maintaining public separation from the area reduces the risk of “step”
and “touch” potential arising where a tree, mobile plant or other
equipment accidentally contacts a live conductor.
A7.5 Role of Safety Observers
(a)
Section A5.2.4 specifies circumstances where Safety
Observer(s) must be appointed.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 41 of 75
(b)
Safety Observers must be competent in the work being
observed and must understand the hazards specific to the work
site;
(c)
The Safety Observer(s) must:
(i)
Be suitably identified and known to relevant work team
members at all times;
(ii)
Have the authority to temporarily suspend the work at
any time,
(iii)
Be positioned at a suitable location to effectively observe
the work being performed,
(iv)
Maintain effective and immediate communication with
the work team at all times,
(v)
Ensure that all persons, tools (except insulated tools
used by utility arborist), plant and equipment remain
outside the specified minimum approach distance and
maintain separation from (potentially) live trees as
appropriate, unless performing a rescue in accordance
with approved procedures,
(vi)
Suspend work while moving position so as to continue
the Safety Observer role effectively from a new position,
(vii)
Suspend all work in the event of having to leave the site
until he or she has returned or has been replaced, and
(viii)
Must not perform any other task, including passing tools
to work team members, while acting as a Safety
Observer
(c)
The Safety Observer(s)’s role may be rotated between
members of the work team, for example to maintain
effectiveness and to reduce fatigue. When this occurs, the role
must be formally handed over so that all members of the work
team are aware at all times who is performing the role of the
Safety Observer(s).
(d)
Trainees must not carry out the Safety Observer role.
A7.6 During Work
A7.6.1
Minimum approach distances
Observe the correct minimum approach distances at all times, as
identified and recorded under Section A7.4.5 above.
A7.6.2
Safe climbing
(a)
Tree climbing must conform to Sections 25 to 31 "Climbing and
Climbing Equipment" of the Arborists' Code Part 1.
(b)
Climbers must be conversant with and competent in safe
climbing techniques and must use climbing equipment designed
and fit for purpose.
(c)
Continually monitor the position of the tree/s and the climber/s
in relation to live power lines so that the minimum approach
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 42 of 75
distance is not encroached by the climber or the tree/s.
Climbing should be on the side of the tree that is away from the
lines.
(d)
Attach a separate rope to limbs that cannot be safely controlled
by a climber. The rope should be controlled by utility arborist/s
at ground level. Use of the same crotch for both the safety
rope and the lowering rope should be avoided.
A7.7 Safe pruning and felling
A7.7.1
Pruning practices must conform to Sections 32 to 35 "Tree Pruning" of
the Arborists' Code Part 1.
A7.7.2
Any tree felling practices must conform to Sections 36 to 42 “Tree
Felling” of the Arborists' Code Part 1.
A7.7.3
Control trees and tree parts during work procedures. Where a tree or
any part of a tree does inadvertently fall towards a live power line, do
not attempt to stop it falling.
A7.7.4
When pruning trees, whether working from ropes inside a tree or from
a EWP:
(a)
Control branches or limbs with the use of ropes, prior to
commencing cutting,
(b)
Support branches and limbs so that during any cutting or
removing, they will move away from any live power line,
(d)
Fully control any branch or limb which may spring in any
direction and create hazardous conditions.
A7.7.5
Fully secure branches or limbs extending over power lines before
cutting or trimming, to prevent them falling into the utility arborist
minimum approach distance or onto power lines. Very small individual
cuttings may be allowed to fall to the ground between the conductors
provided that the diameter of such cuttings is less than 75 mm and the
length less than half the distance between the conductors.
A7.7.6
If any part of a tree cannot be controlled with certainty that it will
move away from the power line, stop the work immediately and use
one of the following options:
A7.7.7
(a)
Adjust the work method so that it is not possible for any part of
the tree to encroach the utility arborist minimum approach
distance or contact the live power line; or
(b)
Liaise with the asset manager to determine whether the line
should be taken out of service for de-energised work procedure.
Work procedures must provide, in accordance with the asset manager’s
policy, for situations where any part of any tree:
(a)
Does inadvertently fall or move into the utility arborist
minimum approach distance, or
(b)
Does make contact with or comes to rest on live power lines, or
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 43 of 75
(c)
Is imminently likely to do either of the above.
A7.8 Weather conditions
A7.8.1
Adverse weather, for example high wind, rain, sleet, snow, mist, fog or
lightning, can make control of vegetation more difficult during
trimming activity or may increase electrical hazards.
A7.8.2
Stop vegetation control work for the time being where such hazards,
including lightning in particular, prevent the work being done safely.
Descend to ground level and keep clear until the hazard has passed.
A7.9 Procedures In The Event of an Emergency or
Incident
A7.9.1
Suspend any work and immediately notify the asset manager when
any emergency condition develops or incident occurs during vegetation
control work whether or not the power lines are live (e.g. a tree
making contact with or falling towards a live power line). Work may
resume only with the approval of the asset manager after the
emergency condition has been resolved.
A7.9.2
In this Code, emergencies or incidents include as a minimum:
(a)
An electric shock or other serious injury received by any
member of the work team or member of the public.
(b)
A flashover at, or close to, the worksite for any reason.
(c)
Complete or partial breakdown of any insulating tool or
equipment, irrespective of whether flashover occurred.
(d)
The electrical or mechanical failures of any insulating tool,
which did, or could have the potential to, cause an accident.
(e)
Any occurrence that impacts upon the physical or electrical
integrity of the electricity network.
(f)
Any occurrence that necessitates a rescue procedure or which
causes serious harm to any person.
(g)
Any near miss for the emergencies or incidents specified above.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 44 of 75
A8 UTILITY ARBORIST INSULATED TOOL
WORK
Additional to the relevant practices in Section A7, the following Section A8
requirements apply where asset manager policy is for utility arborists to clear
vegetation encroaching the utility arborist minimum approach distance. Relevant
procedures in this Section also apply where insulated tools procedures are
required near privately owned power lines.
A8.1 Clearing Encroaching Vegetation Restriction
Only utility arborists Level 2 may clear vegetation that encroaches the utility
arborist minimum approach distance, by the use of approved insulated tool
procedures.
A8.2 Tree Climbing Restriction
Do not climb any trees where any part of the tree encroaches the utility arborist
minimum approach distance.
A8.3 Insulated Tools and Equipment
All insulated tools and equipment to be used for insulated tool work must conform
to the requirements in Section B5, and must have current test certification or
labels, or be listed in a register as having a current test.
A8.4 Work Team Composition
Work team composition is specified in Section A7.3.
During insulated tool work procedures one of the utility arborists should remain
on the ground at all times.
A8.5 Before Commencing Work
A8.5.1
A8.5.2
Minimum tool insulation distance
(a)
A utility arborist Level 2 must verify the minimum tool
insulation distance required for the work.
(b)
Place marks that do not reduce or damage the tools' insulation
qualities on the insulated stick; position the marks so that the
minimum approach distances (Table 1) and minimum tool
insulation distances are not infringed.
Auto-reclosers and protection
(a)
The supervisor must request the asset manager to disable the
auto-reclose equipment controlling the section of power line
near which insulated tool procedures are to be carried out.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 45 of 75
(b)
The auto-reclose equipment must be disabled for the duration
of the work.
(c )
Having disabled the auto-reclose equipment as requested, the
asset manager must confirm to the supervisor that:
(i)
The auto-reclose equipment is disabled and will remain
so for the requested duration;
(ii)
The reclosing equipment is tagged out of service with an
appropriate safety tag and, where possible, locked;
(iii)
Protective devices are operational on that section of line
and will remain operational for the requested duration;
(iv)
The status of items (i) to (iii) above will not change until
an assurance has been received from the supervisor
that:
•
The insulated tool work has been completed and the
worksite is safe.
•
All utility arborists, equipment, tools and mobile plant
are safely clear of the power line.
A8.6 During Work
A8.6.1
A8.6.2
A8.6.3
Consent and approved procedures
(a)
Obtain the asset manager’s consent before carrying out
insulated tool work.
(b)
Only insulated tool procedures approved according to the
requirements in Section B4 may be used.
Tools and equipment
(a)
Only use tools and equipment that are in a clean and dry
condition.
(b)
Do not lay tools and rope directly on the ground.
(c )
Visually inspect and clean all equipment and insulating tools
before any use. Withdraw from service any tool or equipment
that appears to be defective, and arrange further inspection,
testing, repair and/or replacement as appropriate.
(d)
Keep all insulating tools and equipment clear of oils, greases,
oil-based hand cream, oil-based sunburn cream or any other
oil-based substance.
Tool insulation distances
When using insulated tools, observe appropriate minimum tool
insulation distances, as determined under Section A8.5.1 above.
A8.6.4
Pruning procedures
(a)
Where possible, pull vegetation clear of live power lines before
cutting.
(b)
A cutting from a tree may be moved towards a live power line
provided that distances equivalent to the minimum approach
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 46 of 75
distance for line voltage are maintained between each of the cut
section, the tree and the power lines.
A8.6.5
A8.6.6
(c )
A small cutting may be allowed to fall between the conductors
of power lines providing its diameter is less than 75 mm and its
length is less than half the distance between the conductors.
(d)
Any rope involved with insulated tool procedures must be used
outside the utility arborist minimum approach distance and
must conform to Section A4.4.
Communications with the Asset Manager
(a)
Establish and maintain clear two-way communications with the
asset manager at all times for the duration of the work.
(b)
Regularly check that the two-way communication is working
during the course of the work.
( c)
If the two-way communication is lost or cannot be confirmed
re-establish the link as soon as practicably possible. If the
communication loss occurs during insulated tool procedures,
stop the work until two-way communication with the asset
manager is re-established.
(d)
Agree and set up alternative communication arrangements with
the asset manager if usual methods are impracticable for any
reason, for example topography or remote location.
Work Team Communications
Establish and maintain effective communication among all the
members of the work team, including trainees, for the duration of the
work.
A8.6.7
Safety Observer(s)
Section A5.2.4 specifies when to appoint Safety Observer(s) and
Section A7.5 specifies their role and responsibility in vegetation control
work in general. Implement the Safety Observer role as appropriate to
meet the requirements for insulated tool work.
A8.7 Ladders
Ladders used in insulated tool procedures must be either insulated ladders or
reinforced fibreglass ladders.
A8.8 Care and Use of Tools and Equipment
Store and transport insulated tools and equipment in moisture and dust-resistant
containers or transporters. The transportation containers should be constructed
so that the tools are held firmly in place to prevent surface abrasion or other tool
damage. The containers must be well ventilated to avoid moisture effects from
excess humidity or condensation.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 47 of 75
A8.9 Routine Testing and Inspection
A8.9.1
Test all insulating equipment and tools in accordance with ANSI/IEEE:
978 every twelve months. Before testing, clean each equipment or
tool item in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations or
the requirements of the employer.
A8.9.2
Inspect tools prior to use for signs of overstressing. This type of
damage is evident by distorted or cracked parts, bent rivets or bolts.
Check metal parts for excessive wear and other visible damage.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 48 of 75
PART B
MANAGEMENT STANDARDS AND
PRACTICES
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 49 of 75
B1 LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENTS
B1.1 Safety of Power Lines and Work with Vegetation
B1.1.1
The Electricity Act 1992 and subordinate Regulations require asset
managers to maintain safe electricity networks, and the Regulations
and Codes under that Act provide more detailed requirements that
support this. The Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations 2003
require tree owners to manage their trees and keep them clear of
electricity networks. This is to avoid hazards posed by the trees to the
electricity networks and to maintain public safety. This is achieved by
specifying zones around power lines outside of which trees should be
kept and by obliging asset managers and tree owners to meet their
responsibilities in relation to tree management.
B1.1.2
The work activity aspects of managing vegetation at “places of work”
in the vicinity of power lines is subject to the Health and Safety in
Employment Act 1992 and the relevant Regulations, Codes and Guides.
Electricity Codes of Practice under the Electricity Act set requirements
for safe access and safe work practices around power lines. This
particular Code:
(a)
Guides responsible persons in relation to their requiring or
arranging vegetation control work;
(b)
Specifies the minimum safety requirements for asset managers
and service providers in relation to managing vegetation control
work;
(c )
Identifies preferred work practices for the utility arborists who
carry out the vegetation control work; and
(d)
Recommends preferred work practices for ordinary persons to
avoid electrical hazards, including for those who obtain the
asset manager’s consent to work with vegetation near certain
power lines.
B1.2 Notifications
B1.2.1
The Department’s web address www.osh.dol.govt.nz “Quick Link”
“Notify Us” provides information and forms for notifying the
Department concerning occupational disease, serious harm accidents,
commercial vehicle accidents and notification of “particular hazardous
work”. “Particular hazardous work” includes commercial tree felling,
which includes maintenance of vegetation around power lines.
B1.2.2
Service providers should fax or mail a completed “Notification of
Particular Hazardous Work” to the local Department office in
accordance with their requirements. Such notification is not required
for emergency work around power lines.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 50 of 75
B1.2.3
Initial advice to the Department for notifiable accidents can be made
on 0800 20 90 20.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 51 of 75
B2 KEY SAFETY MANAGEMENT
REQUIREMENTS
B2.1 Key Requirements in Work with Vegetation
The following key requirements are essential to achieving safe outcomes for work
with vegetation near power lines. Many of these and also other essential
requirements are developed throughout this Code:
(a)
(b)
The HSE Act requires duties of persons involved in work with
vegetation in the vicinity of power lines. Detailed requirements
are specified in this and the other relevant Codes of Practice,
SM-EI, the other guides and standards referenced in this Code,
and the asset manager’s own requirements for the work. The
work must be conducted in a way that achieves the safety of
persons doing the work and also the public in the vicinity.
Asset managers must establish appropriate policy concerning
the clearing of vegetation within the vegetation control zone.
Policy options may include:
(i)
Removal of power lines from service, isolation and
application of safety measures, before clearing
vegetation using ordinary persons and appropriate work
methods;
(ii)
Use of qualified electrical workers, e.g. line mechanics or
live line mechanics as appropriate to clear vegetation;
(iii)
Utility arborist vegetation control methods: utility
arborist Level 1 for vegetation outside the utility arborist
minimum approach distance, or insulated tool
procedures by utility arborist Level 2 for vegetation that
encroaches the utility arborist minimum approach
distance.
(c )
Utility arborists must work to the requirements in this Code for
the conduct of vegetation control work.
(d)
Utility arborists and ordinary persons must comply with the
minimum approach distances from power lines and the other
required separations specified in this Code.
(e)
Excepting any formal consent given by the asset manager as
provided for in (f) below, ordinary persons must not work with
vegetation that is within the vegetation control zone, around
live power lines. (See “Minimum Approach Distances for
ordinary persons” Section A5.3).
(f)
Asset managers may consent to ordinary persons clearing
vegetation that is within the vegetation control zone only for
live power lines 66kV and below, provided that the following
minimum requirements are met:
(i)
The asset manager ascertains that the intended work
involves no risk of electrical hazard to persons or hazard
to the electricity network, and
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 52 of 75
(ii)
The asset manager provides appropriate instructions
concerning avoidance of such hazards in a written
consent for the work to proceed, and
(iii)
The minimum safe approach distance limits for the
ordinary persons and the trees they work with, under
the written consent, must not be less than the distances
specified in ECP 34 Section 9.2 Table 9 for voltages 66kV
and below, and
(iv)
Any mobile plant use agreed to by the asset manager is
subject to written consent and conditions, including any
safety procedures required by the asset manager, and
(v)
The asset manager is able to be satisfied that the
ordinary person will take reasonable steps in the
circumstances to ensure that any potential electrical
hazards and any hazards to the network are avoided.
(h)
When notifying of dangers or issuing notices required under the
Electricity (Hazards from Trees) Regulations, asset managers
should incorporate appropriate guidance from Section A5.3 of
this Code, and must incorporate this guidance when otherwise
liaising with ordinary persons about working with trees near
power lines.
(i)
Any responsible person requiring or arranging the clearing of
vegetation around power lines must require this to be done by
utility arborists as vegetation control work to the requirements
of this Code. Section A2 outlines the options where the work
cannot be done as vegetation control procedures by utility
arborists for any reason.
B2.2 General Safety Management
B2.2.1
Asset managers and service providers must ensure that the
requirements relevant to each throughout this Code are being met.
B2.2.2
Asset managers must take reasonable steps to satisfy themselves that
the service providers they engage:
a)
Meet the requirements of this Code, and that
b)
Their work procedures are developed in accordance with this
Code and fit for purpose.
B2.2.3
Asset managers must monitor the service provider’s performance
against the requirements of this Code.
B2.2.3
Employers must instruct their employees in the provisions of this Code,
the proper use of all equipment provided for them and the safe
working practices to be followed.
B2.2.4
The standard and practice of supervision must conform to this Code
and the supervision requirements relevant to vegetation control work
in SM-EI and the EEANZ Technical Guide “Supervision for Safety”.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 53 of 75
B2.2.5
Safety equipment, devices and personal protective equipment must
conform to relevant statutory requirements, standards and codes,
including particular requirements in this Code. Such equipment must
be maintained in a safe condition.
B2.2.6
All vehicles and equipment must be equipped, operated and
maintained in conformance with this Code, relevant statutory
requirements and according to manufacturers' operating instructions.
B2.2.7
The asset manager’s consent is required in accordance with Sections
A5.2.3 and A4.4.1.5 for the operation of EWPs or other mobile plant
closer than 4 metres or above power lines by utility arborists.
B2.2.8
Traffic control measures must conform to the current requirements of
the Road Controlling Authority.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 54 of 75
B3 COMPETENCE AND TRAINING
B3.1 Utility Arborist Competency
B3.1.1
B3.1.2
B3.1.3
The service provider must:
a)
Document the competencies of the utility arborists including any
national qualifications supporting competency to this Code.
b)
Ensure that trainers provide the training and refresher training
for utility arborists.
b)
Ensure that the utility arborists are currently competent for the
vegetation control work they are required to do.
Utility arborists are persons who:
a)
Have at least 300 logged hours of current arboriculture work
experience as arborists competent to Arborists’ Code Part 1,
b)
Are currently competent to work to Arborist Code Part 1, and
c)
Are currently competent and authorised to do vegetation control
work near to power lines to the requirements of this Code.
The two categories of utility arborist competence and the scope of
work permitted for these are:
a)
Utility arborist Level 1 (UAL1) – competent to do vegetation
control work near to power lines where the vegetation to be
worked on is outside the Table 1 minimum approach distance
for utility arborists.
b)
Utility arborist Level 2 (UAL2) – additional to UAL1 competency,
are competent to use insulated tools to do vegetation control
work where the vegetation encroaches the Table 1 minimum
approach distance for utility arborists.
B3.1.4
Additional to the basic requirements in B3.1.2 above, UAL1 must be
competent to the specifications in B3.2.2 below.
B3.1.5
Additional to the basic requirements in B3.1.2, UAL2 must be
competent to the specifications in both B3.2.2 and B3.2.3 below.
B3.2 Utility Arborist Training Subjects
B3.2.1
The training subjects itemised below are grouped by the nature of the
competence required, whether a level of knowledge, understanding or
ability, appropriate to different aspects of the work:
a)
‘A knowledge of’ – the ‘store’ of information needed as
background information to indirectly support safe conduct of the
work – the ‘what’, ‘when’ and ‘where’,
b)
‘An understanding of’ – the detailed working knowledge needed
regularly and continually that is an intrinsic basis for day to day
work activities – the ‘how’ and ‘why’,
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 55 of 75
c)
B3.2.2
‘An ability to’ – the actual capability, based on knowledge,
understanding and acquired practical skills to physically carry
out tasks on a regular basis to the acceptable standard.
Utility Arborist Level 1 Training
Knowledge of:
(a)
General principles for safe access near to power lines
(b)
Reclose Block procedures
(c)
Control room procedures and protocols
An understanding of:
(d)
General hazard management
(e)
Electrical theory, hazards and hazard controls
(f)
Rigging
(g)
Department of Labour notifications
(h)
Minimum approach distances
(i)
Power line access policies specific to the asset manager
(j)
SM-EI requirements relevant to all aspects of vegetation control
work
(k)
Customer and property owner relations
Ability to:
(l)
Identify circuits and voltages
(m)
Identify and apply appropriate minimum approach distances for
power lines
(n)
Use line distance measuring devices
(n)
Identify, inspect and check, test, use and store tools, plant and
equipment
(o)
Safely use non insulated tools and equipment near power lines
(p)
Use, inspect and check, maintain and store personal protective
equipment.
(q)
Use mobile plant near power lines, and to apply mobile plant
minimum approach distances
(r)
Earth mobile plant and carry out bonding appropriate to the
work
(s)
Carry out duties of Safety Observer
(t)
Use ladders near power lines
(u)
Work procedures for work near power lines
(v)
Be aware of and recognise electrical hazards
(w)
Do EWP and tree aerial rescue near electrical hazards
(x)
Do emergency procedures for injuries, fallen power lines and
equipment
(y)
Do Basic first aid and CPR relating to work on electricity
networks
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 56 of 75
B3.2.3
Utility Arborist Level 2 Training
An understanding of:
(a)
SM-EI requirements pertinent to all aspects of insulated tool
work in close proximity to live power lines
(b)
Insulated tool work theory
Ability to:
(c)
Do required testing of insulating tools, plant and equipment
(d)
Inspect, care for and maintain insulating tools plant and
equipment
(e)
Safely carry out insulated tool techniques and procedures using
insulated tools, plant and equipment
(f)
Use line distance measuring sticks or rods
B3.3 Providing Utility Arborist Training
B3.3.1
Supervision of formal training
A trainer who holds current certification covering the scope of training
to be provided must directly supervise all formal training including
refresher training.
(Note. Supervision of OTJ training, as distinct from formal training, is
covered in Section A3.2 of this Code.)
B3.3.2
Training in insulated tool methods
(a)
Training in insulated tool procedures must provide a thorough
understanding of both the principles and also the procedures for
insulated tool work as well as a comprehensive practical
program. This must include insulated tool work theory and
application, correct use and maintenance of personal protective
equipment, proper care of tools and equipment, and practicing
the required procedures or techniques around de-energised
isolated and earthed power lines, before practicing the
procedures around live power lines.
(b)
Monitor utility arborists undergoing training (including refresher
training) to ensure their continued suitability for insulated tool
work.
( c)
Only issue competency certification in insulated tool methods
when the trainee can demonstrate the required knowledge,
skills and experience to carry out the work safely and to the
required standards.
B3.4 Utility Arborist Refresher Training
B3.4.1
Regular renewal and updating of certain aspects of training is
necessary to ensure continuing competency. Provide refresher training
in vegetation control work at intervals of not more than 1 year and
cover as a minimum knowledge, skills, work procedures and attitude
necessary for an individual to perform specified activities and tasks.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 57 of 75
B3.4.2
Assess competence in rescue and emergency procedures annually.
B3.4.3
Conduct further refresher training if vegetation control safety rules,
concepts or techniques are found to be deficient during field
assessments. Refresher training may be done at the work site in
conjunction with field assessments or audits.
B3.5 Competence Limitations and Work Restrictions
B3.5.1
Some utility arborists may be restricted from certain work activities
due to limitations in competence under the transitional provisions (see
Section B8.1(a)), or, at any future point, due to change of status (e.g.
change of physical capability to climb trees) , or where certain
competencies have lapsed.
B3.5.2
Document any work restrictions in competency records and
certification for such employees, and note such restrictions in the
planning of any work in which they participate.
B3.6 Competency Maintenance and Field Assessments
B3.6.1
Utility arborists must complete the procedures they are authorised to
do at least three times in each calendar year in order to maintain the
competence in these procedures.
B3.6.2
Assess utility arborists individually at least annually, to appraise their
performance of the procedures they are authorised to do and to
appraise their competencies for which they hold certification.
B3.6.3
The persons who conduct the field assessments must be currently
competent in the areas being assessed, independent of the work party
being assessed and authorised by the service provider,.
B3.7 Records
B3.7.1
Service providers must maintain current records of all vegetation
control training and work for their employees, including as a minimum
for each individual:
(a)
Record of work procedures performed
(b)
Regular (preferably annual) training needs analysis and training
plans
(c)
OTJ training and formal training provided
(d)
Assessment and examination results
(e)
Refresher and other training arising from any identified
deficiencies (field audits, assessments, accidents or near misses
etc)
(f)
Certificates issued, expired and withdrawn
(g)
Restrictions required under B3.5 above.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 58 of 75
(h)
B3.7.2
Trainer details and credentials
Training records must include reviews, audits and assessments of the
training system and scope of training provided, and evidence of
corrective actions and improvements resulting from these.
B3.8 Certification
B3.8.1
Service providers must operate and maintain a system of certification
of current competency. Certification must indicate current competency
for each individual as utility arborist Level 1 or Level 2 and as
supervisor where appropriate. Certificates for each individual must be
available as proof of competency at all times at the location where the
individual is working.
B3.8.2
As a minimum, certificates must show:
(a)
Unique certificate number,
(b)
Name of holder,
(c)
Date of issue and expiry,
(d)
Qualifications held (if any),
(e)
Name of trainer,
(f)
Categories of competency (utility arborist L1 or L2; supervisor)
in which the holder has current competency,
(g)
Service provider procedures, for which the holder has current
competence,
(h)
Any current work restrictions required under Section B3.5
above.
(i)
For supervisor competency, the categories of work and the
number of persons he or she may supervise.
(j)
Signature of the issuing service provider.
B3.8.3
Utility arborists must at all times hold a current competency certificate
issued by their current employer who is a service provider.
B3.8.4
Certificates must be issued by the service provider:
B3.8.5
(a)
Following satisfactory completion of training endorsed by the
trainer,
(b)
Following refresher or other training required after field
inspection, audit, assessment or identified deficiency,
(c)
Immediately before the holder moves to employment with a
new service provider,
(d)
When an existing holder moves to employment with a new
service provider, and after satisfactory completion of
appropriate refresher training required in Section B3.4 above.
A certificate issued under this Section of the Code may be withdrawn
where the holder is found to be incompetent in any categories of
competence for which the certificate was issued.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 59 of 75
B3.9 Supervisor Competence
B3.9.1
B3.9.2
Supervisors must be suitably experienced and currently competent in
the categories of work they supervise and currently competent to
supervise the number of persons required for doing such work.
Supervisors must have knowledge in, understanding of and ability in
the following areas, commensurate with the categories of work and
numbers of persons they supervise:
(a)
(b)
Management of People and work – an ability to:
(i)
Plan the safety aspects of work activity and respond to
changes that impact upon safety at the place of work.
(ii)
Lead and direct the work team.
(iii)
Execute and lead hazard and risk identification and
control in the place of work.
(iv)
Plan, conduct and report work site briefings (tailgate
sessions) involving all persons at the place of work.
(v)
Receive and communicate instructions effectively, both
verbally and also via written communications, solicit
advice and collect and analyse input from team
members.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance and Guidance for Person in
Charge
(i)
An ability to find and use information relevant to safety
aspects of supervision.
(ii)
An understanding of HSE and Electricity Acts,
Regulations, Codes and Guides related to supervision.
(iii)
An understanding of supervision requirements in SM-EI
and the EEANZ Technical Guide “Supervision for Safety”.
B3.10 Supervisor Training, Competency Maintenance,
Certificates and Records
B3.10.1
Supervisor training must be managed so that supervisors maintain
ongoing competence in their role.
B3.10.2
A trainer who holds current certification covering the scope of training
to be provided must directly supervise formal training of supervisors.
B3.10.3
Monitor trainee supervisors and supervisors undergoing refresher
training to ascertain their continued suitability for the supervisor role.
B3.10.4
Provide refresher training for supervisors at intervals not exceeding 2
years or when field assessments identify any deficiency in performance
of the supervisor function. As a minimum cover the competencies
specified for supervisors and any performance deficiencies in this role.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 60 of 75
B3.10.5
To maintain supervisor competence, the supervisor must carry out this
function in vegetation control work at least 6 times during a calendar
year.
B3.10.6
Field audits and assessments required under this Code must include
assessment of supervisors in their supervising function. Such
assessments must be conducted by persons who have a level of
competence at least equivalent to the supervisors being assessed.
B3.10.7
Certificates must be issued or renewed for competent supervisors only
where they can demonstrate the required knowledge skills and ability
to carry out the supervisor role to the required standard.
B3.10.8
Records and certification for supervisors must comply with the
requirements of Sections B3.7 and B3.8 above, but as applied to
supervisors.
B3.11 Recognition of Qualified Electrical Workers as Utility
Arborists
B3.11.1
Currently competent qualified electrical workers (e.g. line mechanics)
that meet the pre-requisites in Section B3.1.2 (a) and (b) and who are
currently competent and authorised to carry out the scope of work
permitted for utility arborist Level 1 under Section B3.1.3(a) satisfy the
requirements for competency as utility arborist Level 1.
B3.11.2
Qualified electrical workers recognised as utility arborist Level 1 under
B3.11.1 above and who are currently competent and authorised to
carry out the scope of work permitted for utility arborist Level 2 under
the Section B3.1.3(b) satisfy the requirements for competency as
utility arborist Level 2.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 61 of 75
B4 APPROVED WORK PROCEDURES
B4.1 Development, Proving and Review
B4.1.1
Service providers must develop, document, approve and periodically
review work procedures for all vegetation control work by utility
arborists including insulated tool work.
B4.1.2
Work procedures must be proven in a trial around a de-energised line,
or around a live power line but outside the minimum approach distance
for ordinary persons (see Section A5.3.1). Such trials must satisfy
competent and sufficiently experienced person/s that the procedures
can be carried out reliably and safely.
B4.2 Documentation
B4.2.1
B4.2.2
Documentation setting out the basic steps must be provided for each
approved work procedure. In addition each work procedure must:
(a)
Identify the objectives of the work procedure.
(b)
List the minimum tools and equipment required for the
procedure and clearly state the maximum loading conditions for
these tools if applicable.
(c)
Have unique document identification numbers and show
amendment or issue numbers and date of issue.
(d)
State the minimum number of workers required and associated
competencies.
A copy of the relevant approved work procedure must be readily
available at the work site.
B5 INSULATED TOOL WORK STANDARDS
B5.1 Selection and Management
B5.1.1
A competent and suitably experienced person must ensure that:
(a)
All equipment is suitable for insulated tool work and is safe for
use by competent workers;
(b)
The tool manufacturer’s insulation rating complies with ASTM:
F711 and ANSI/IEEE: 978
(c)
The equipment meets appropriate standards listed in 5.4 below;
(d)
All cleaning agents used to clean any tool or equipment, are
suitable for the purpose and safe for any worker to use.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 62 of 75
B5.1.2
A tool management and maintenance system must be in place to
ensure that equipment is maintained to appropriate standards, and
that records of purchase, inspection, maintenance and testing are
kept.
B5.2 Insulated Tool and Equipment Testing
B5.2.1
All insulating tools and equipment must meet the requirements of the
relevant standard and be certificated as such by the equipment
supplier.
B5.2.2
Each item of insulating equipment must have a unique identification
marked on it, and:
(a)
Be provided with a test certificate or a label; or
(b)
Be noted in a register that it has passed the relevant test and
the due date for a retest.
B5.3 Insulated Tool Work Manual
B5.3.1
A manual must be prepared containing at least the following:
(a)
A description of insulated tool working principles and
requirements.
(b)
A description of each tool, its functions and uses.
(c)
Instructions on caring for the tools and equipment including:
(i)
Daily checks
(ii)
Inspections
(iii)
Maintenance instructions
(iv)
Testing requirements for plant and equipment
(v)
Storage of plant and equipment.
(d)
A set of approved work procedures.
(e)
Information for use in an emergency such as a situation
requiring cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and rescue from
a EWP, ladder or tree.
B5.4 Standards
B5.4.1
Equipment used for insulated tool work and appropriate aspects of
insulated tool work methods must conform to standards issued by
ASTM (the American Society for Testing and Materials) and ANSI
(American National Standards Institute).
B5.4.2
The Standards are:
(a)
ASTM: F711: Specifications for Fibreglass-Reinforced Plastic
(FRP) Rod and Tube.
(b)
ANSI/IEEE: 978: Guide for In-Service Maintenance and
Electrical Testing of Live Line Tools.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 63 of 75
( c)
ANSI/IEEE: 516: Guideline for Maintenance Methods on
Energised Power-Lines
(d)
ANSI/SIA A92.2: Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating
Aerial Devices.
B5.5 Electrical protection procedures
B5.5.1
The service provider and asset manager must establish procedures
appropriate to each covering reclose blocks. Service provider
procedures must cover requests for reclose block, receipt of reclose
block confirmations from the asset manager and conditions to be met
for returning reclose block confirmations. Asset manager procedures
must cover the receipt of reclose block requests and dispatch of
reclose block confirmations to the service provider, including the
required detail about equipment covered and measures applied, and
conditions to be met for the removal of issued reclose blocks.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 64 of 75
B6 PUBLIC SAFETY AND EMERGENCY
AND INCIDENT PROCEDURES
B6.1 Public Safety
The service provider must have in place appropriate procedures for the safety and
separation of the public and vehicular traffic from vegetation control work in
progress.
B6.2 Emergency and Incident Procedures
The asset manager and/or service provider must have in place documented
procedures appropriate to each for responding to emergencies and incidents,
including coverage as a minimum of:
(a)
The rescue of injured persons or those at risk.
(b)
The immediate first aid and medical needs of any injured person
and the safety of other persons at the worksite.
(c)
Any emergency switching requirements.
(d)
Restoration of any circuit as a result of the incident.
(e)
Investigation and reporting requirements to determine the
cause of the incident and the implementation of appropriate
remedial measures.
(f)
Notification of all parties required under regulations, this Code
and industry agreements.
B7 AUDITS
B7.1
Other sections of this Code require service providers to audit and
assess employees and supervisors for the maintenance of competence
certification. Service providers must also conduct audits of their
operations to assess their systems and compliance at least annually
against the broader requirements of this Code. The audits must
assess management policy, practice and procedures, and application of
these in the field, against the requirements in this Code as a minimum.
The audits must be used to effectively address non-conformances.
B7.2
Audits must be conducted by an authorized person who:
(a)
Is appointed by the service provider,
(b)
Has a comprehensive understanding and experience in the
systems and procedures being audited,
(c )
Is independent of the service provider, and who
(d)
Is competent in audit procedures and practices.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 65 of 75
B7.3
B7.4
Asset managers must conduct external audits, assessments and
monitoring as appropriate, sufficient to ensure that:
(a)
Their own policies, procedures and practices are compliant with
the requirements in this Code that are relevant to them, and
that
(b)
The service providers they engage comply with the
requirements of this Code.
The audits required of service providers and asset managers may be
conducted in the course of other management systems audits such as
quality management or compliance audits.
B8 TRANSITION PROVISIONS
B8.1 Transition for “Competent Workers”
(a)
(b)
Persons currently “competent workers” under the February
1996 edition of the Approved Code of Practice for Safety and
Health in Tree Work Part 2: Maintenance of Trees Around Power
Lines at the time this revised edition was promulgated must
fully conform to the competency and certification requirements
in this revised edition by 1 July 2009.
Any competencies which any person cannot meet in
conformance with (a) above must be identified as restrictions
on the scope of work these persons may perform. (See Section
B3.5.2).
B8.2 Existing and New Trainees
Existing or new trainees under this Code, from the date of its publication, must be
capable of attaining to all the competencies and tasks required under their chosen
utility arborist qualifications. This does not limit temporary or permanent work
restrictions being applied at any future point in their career, where temporary or
permanent limitations in aptitude, capability or competence warrant this.
B8.3 Recognition of Qualified Electrical Worker
Experience
The experience in work with vegetation accumulated by any qualified electrical
worker (e.g. a line mechanic) at the time this current Code came into force, may
be credited to the logged hours required under Section B3.1.2(a) prerequisite to
recognition as a utility arborist.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 66 of 75
APPENDIX 1: LAWS, STANDARDS AND
GUIDES
This Appendix identifies Statutes, Standards, Approved Codes of Practice and
Guides relevant to this Code. The list is not comprehensive. Users of this Code
must identify and use the latest versions of publications and guidance pertinent
to work activity covered by this Code. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure the
correct version is referred to.
1. New Zealand Statutes
The Electricity Act 1992 Electricity Regulations 1997 Electricity (Hazards from
Trees) Regulations 2003 The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992. Health
and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995.
2. Standards
This list provides guidance on standards and guides relevant to this Code but
should not be taken as a comprehensive list. Other standards may be applicable,
including those identified in Arborists Code Part 1.
Any other relevant standards which embody the same or more stringent criteria
than those identified below will be acceptable as an alternative.
Where documents are superseded, the latest version should be used.
AS/NZS 1800:1998 Occupational Protective Helmets – Selection Care and Use
AS/NZS 1801:1997 Occupational Protective Helmets
AS/NZS 1336:1997 Recommended Practices for Occupational Eye Protection
AS/NZS 1337:1992 Eye Protectors for Industrial Applications
AS/NZS 1270:2002 Acoustics – Hearing Protectors
AS/NZS 1715: 1994 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective
Devices
AS/NZS 1891.3: 1992 Fall arrest devices.
AS/NZS 1891.4: 2000 Industrial Fall Arrest Systems and Devices Part 4:
Selection,
Use and Maintenance
AS/NZS 1891.1: 1995 Safety belts and harnesses.
AS/NZS 2210 Occupational protective footwear
AS/NZS 2210.1: 1994 Guide to selection, care and use
AS/NZS 2210.2: 1994 Specification. Amendment 1, 1995
AS 2919: 1987 Industrial Clothing
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 67 of 75
AS 2375:1980 Guide to the Selection, Care and Use of Clothing for Protection
against Heat and Fire
NZS 4453.3: 1997 Protective Clothing for Users of Hand-Held Chainsaws –
Protective Legwear (and amendments)
AS/NZS 1892.2: 1992 Portable Ladders – Timber
AS/NZS.1892.3: 1996 Portable Ladders – Reinforced Plastic
AS/NZS.1892.5: 2000 Portable Ladders – Selection, Safe Use and Care
ASTM: F711: Specifications for Fibreglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Rod and Tube
ANSI/IEEE: 978: Guide for In-Service Maintenance and Electrical Testing of Live
Line Tools
ANSI/IEEE: 516: Guideline for Maintenance Methods on Energised Power-Lines
ANSI/SIA A92.2: Vehicle-Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices.
3. Codes of Practice
Approved Code of Practice for Safety and Health in Tree Work — Part 1:
Arboriculture (“The Arborists' Code”), published by the Department
NZ Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances (NZECP34: 2001).
Approved Code of Practice for Power-Operated Elevating Work Platforms,
published by the Department
Approved Code of Practice for Cranes, published by the Department
Code of Practice for Temporary Traffic Management (“CoPTTM”), published by
Transit New Zealand.
Temporary Traffic Management for Local Roads Supplement to Transit New
Zealand CoPTTM, First Edition September 2005 published by the Road Controlling
Authorities (download at www.transit.govt.nz or www.trainingaspirations.co.nz)
4. Electricity Supply Industry and Other Standards
and Guidelines
Safety Manual – Electricity Industry Requirements for Safety in the New Zealand
Electricity Generation, Transmission and Distribution Industry (“SM-EI”) published
by the Electricity Engineers Association of New Zealand (EEANZ):
Part 1: Minimum Safety Requirements
Part 2: General Safety Guide
Part 3: Rules for Work on Equipment
Guide for the Operation and Maintenance of Elevating Platform Vehicles,
published by the EEANZ.
Guide to Temporary Earthing of Distribution Overhead Lines, published by the
EEANZ.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 68 of 75
Guidelines for the Provision of Facilities and General Safety and Health in Forestry
Work, published by the Department.
Technical Guide – Supervision for Safety, published by the EEANZ.
Guidelines for the Prevention of Falls, published by the Department
The Line Mechanics Handbook, published by the EEANZ.
Technical Guide for the Use of Personal Fall Arrest Systems, published by the
EEANZ.
Guide to Portable Equipment for Work On or Near Conductors, published by the
EEANZ
The Emergency Services Manual published by the EEANZ.
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 69 of 75
APPENDIX 2: SUMMARY OF THE HEALTH
AND SAFETY IN EMPLOYMENT ACT 1992
The object of the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 (the Act) is to
prevent harm to all people at work and people in, or in the vicinity of a
place of work. To do this, the Act:
(a)
Promotes excellence in health and safety management;
(b)
Defines harm and hazards in a comprehensive way;
(c)
Imposes duties on those who are responsible for work, or do work;
(d)
Sets requirements that relate to taking all practicable steps to ensure
health and safety, and that are flexible to cover different circumstances;
and
(e)
Encourages employee participation in health and safety management and
that the process is conducted in good faith by all those involved.
The Act creates duties for most people connected with places of work:
(a)
Employers;
(b)
Employees (including trainees and people gaining work experience and
volunteers);
(c)
Self-employed;
(d)
Principals to contracts;
(e)
Persons who control a place of work; and
(f)
Hirers, sellers and suppliers of plant
Regulations
Regulations are promulgated from time to time under the Act. Regulations may,
among other things, impose duties on employers, employees, designers,
manufacturers, and others relating to health and safety. These regulations may
apply with respect to places of work, plant, processes or substances and may deal
with particular problems that have arisen.
The Health and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995 require the provision of
facilities such as toilets, meal rooms, first aid, and for employees to wash, and
the provision of wholesome and sufficient drinking water. The regulations also set
a range of general health and safety and welfare requirements in addition to the
Act, including:
(a)
Restricting children and young people from certain hazardous work and
times of work,
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 70 of 75
(b)
Requiring certification of workers using some hazardous equipment;
(c)
Requiring notification of particular types of hazardous work, including
forestry and construction; and
(d)
Creating duties for the designers, manufacturers and suppliers of plant
and protective clothing and equipment.
Approved codes of practice
Approved codes of practice are provided for in the Act. They are statements of
preferred work practice or arrangements, and may include procedures which
could be taken into account when deciding on the practicable steps to be taken.
Compliance with codes of practice is not mandatory. However, compliance with
an approved code of practice may be used in Court as evidence of good practice
and an employer or other duty holder having taken “all practicable steps” to meet
the duty.
Employers’ duties
Employers have duties to ensure the health and safety of employees at work.
Employers have a general duty to take “all practicable steps” to ensure the safety
of employees while at work. In particular, they are required to take all practicable
steps to:
(a)
Provide and maintain a safe working environment;
(b)
Provide and maintain facilities for the safety and health of employees at
work;
(c)
Ensure that machinery and equipment is safe for employees;
(d)
Ensure that working arrangements are not hazardous to employees; and
(e)
Provide procedures to deal with emergencies that may arise while
employees are at work.
Taking “all practicable steps” means doing what is reasonably able to be done in
the circumstances, taking into account:
(a)
The severity of any injury or harm to health that may occur;
(b)
The degree of risk or probability of that injury or harm occurring;
(c)
How much is known about the hazard and the ways of eliminating,
reducing or controlling it; and
(d)
The availability, effectiveness and cost of the possible safeguards.
A person is required to take all practicable steps in respect of circumstances that
they know or ought reasonably to know about.
Hazard management
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 71 of 75
Employers must identify and regularly review hazards in the place of work
(existing, new and potential), to determine whether they are “significant hazards”
and require further action. If an accident or harm occurs that requires particulars
to be recorded, employers are required to investigate it to determine if it was
caused by or arose from a significant hazard.
“Significant hazard” means a hazard that is an actual or potential cause or source
of:
(a)
Serious harm (defined in a schedule to the Act); or
(b)
Harm (being more than trivial) where the severity of effects on any person
depend (entirely or among other things) on the extent or frequency of the
person’s exposure to the hazard; or
(c)
Harm that does not usually occur, or usually is not easily detectable, until
a significant time after exposure to the hazard.
Where the hazard is significant, the Act sets out the steps employers must take:
(a)
Where practicable, the hazard must be eliminated.
(b)
If elimination is not practicable, the hazard must be isolated.
(c)
If it is impracticable to eliminate or isolate the hazard completely, then
employers must minimise the likelihood that employees will be harmed
by the hazard.
Where the hazard has not been eliminated or isolated, employers must, where
appropriate:
(a)
Provide protective clothing and equipment and ensure that it is accessible
and used;
(b)
Monitor employees’ exposure to the hazard;
(c)
Seek the consent of employees to monitor their health; and
(d)
With informed consent, monitor employees’ health.
Information for employees and health and safety
representatives
Before employees begin work, they must be informed by their employer of:
(a)
Hazards they may be exposed to while at work;
(b)
Hazards they may create which could harm other people;
(c)
How to minimise the likelihood of these hazards becoming a source of
harm to themselves and others;
(d)
The location and correct use of safety equipment; and
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 72 of 75
(e)
Emergency procedures.
Employers are also required to inform employees of the results of any health and
safety monitoring. In doing so, the privacy of individual employees must be
protected.
Where there are employee health and safety representatives, the employer must
ensure that the representatives have ready access to sufficient information about
health and safety systems and issues in the place of work to enable them to be
able to carry out their functions effectively.
Training and supervision of employees
An employer must ensure that every employee who:
(a)
does work of any kind, or
(b)
uses plant of any kind, or
(c)
deals with a substance of any kind,
in a place of work has the knowledge and experience – or is supervised by
someone who has - so that they are not likely to suffer harm, or lead to the harm
of others. Every employee must be adequately trained in the safe use of all plant,
objects, substances, and protective clothing and equipment that they are, or may
be, required to use or handle.
Employers to provide opportunities for employee
participation
Employers must provide reasonable opportunities for employees to participate
effectively in ongoing processes for improvement of health and safety in the place
of work. Where there are more than 30 employees, or where an employee
requests it, the employer must seek agreement on, develop, implement and
maintain a system of employee participation. Where agreement cannot be
reached on the system employee participation, there are default provisions set
out in the Act.
Where employee health and safety representatives are elected, they are entitled
to paid leave to attend approved training courses.
A trained employee health and safety representative may issue a hazard notice to
an employer where they believe there is a hazard in the place of work, they have
brought it to the employer’s attention, and the issue has not been resolved.
Employers and employees must deal with each other in good faith while seeking
agreement on, developing and maintaining a system of employee participation.
The dispute resolution processes of the Employment Relations Act apply.
Responsibility for employees’ work activities
An employer is also responsible for the health and safety of others arising from
the work activities of their employees. They must take all practicable steps to
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 73 of 75
ensure that no action or inaction of an employee while at work causes harm to
any other person.
Deemed employees
People receiving on-the-job training or work experience as loaned employees,
and volunteer workers are all deemed to be “employees” of an employer or selfemployed person for whom they are working. Most employer duties apply, but
not that to provide opportunities for employee participation. In addition, for
volunteers the exceptions are:
(a)
To provide training and supervision; and
(b)
To ensure their actions or inaction at work does not harm others.
Duties of employees
Every employee must take all practicable steps to ensure:
(a)
Their own safety while at work (including using protective clothing and
equipment); and
(b)
That no action or inaction of theirs while at work causes harm to any other
person.
An employee has a right to refuse to undertake work that they consider likely to
cause them serious harm.
The self-employed
Every self-employed person must take all practicable steps to ensure that no
action or inaction of theirs while at work harms the self-employed person or any
other person.
Principals
Principals to contracts are required to take all practicable steps to ensure that—
(a)
No employee of a contractor or subcontractor; and
(b)
If an individual, no contractor or subcontractor—
is harmed while doing any work (other than residential work) that the contractor
was engaged to do.
Hirers, sellers and suppliers of plant
The Act places duties on people to ensure that any plant or equipment that is
used in a place of work is designed and made, and has been maintained, so that
it is safe for its intended use. The duties apply to people who:
(a)
Hire, lease or loan plant to another person that could be used in a place of
work; or
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 74 of 75
(b)
Sell or supply plant (other than for hire, lease or loan); or
(c)
Install or arrange plant in addition to either of the above.
Persons in control of a place of work
The Act places duties on “persons who control a place of work” in relation to
people in the vicinity, and to visitors.
A “person who controls a place of work” includes a person who owns, leases,
subleases or occupies a place of work, or who owns, leases or subleases plant or
equipment used in a place of work.
Accidents and serious harm (recording and
notification)
The Act requires employers, the self-employed, and principals to contracts to
keep a register of work-related accidents and serious harm.
For employers, this includes every accident that harmed (or might have harmed):
(a) Any employee or self-employed person at work;
(b) Any person in a place of work under the employer’s control.
Employers are also required to investigate all accidents, harm and “near misses”
to determine whether they were caused by a significant hazard.
“Serious harm” is defined in Schedule 1A of the Act.
Any occurrences of serious harm of a kind that must be recorded, must also be
notified to the Secretary of Labour (in practice, the nearest Department of Labour
office), as soon as possible after the occurrence. In addition, the accident must
also be reported on the prescribed form within 7 days. (Forms are available from
stationers, or from the Department website.)
If a person suffers serious harm, the scene of the accident must not be disturbed
unless to:
(a) Save life or prevent suffering;
(b) Maintain public access for essential services, e.g. electricity, gas;
(c) Prevent serious damage or loss of property.
A health and safety inspector will advise whether or not the Department of
Labour will investigate the accident, and what action may be taken in the
meantime
Trees Code Part 2 Draft Version 12B (Change Accepted)
Dated 09 Dec 2007
Page 75 of 75