Arborists Checklist

Pre-work Site Assessment

• Seek clarification on the client scope, site objective, and the location of trees using the site plan.


• Survey the area to determine hazards (unstable trees, overhead power lines, traffic, and soft ground).


• Review access routes (vehicle and crew); ensure that safe setup areas have been identified.


• Check weather forecasts and wind speeds against safe work limits.


• Identify risks and suggested controls in a Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Proper planning is the precursor of safe tree passage. The site assessment enables hazards to be determined and managed according to the principles of risk management by WorkSafe New Zealand. Weather verification, access mapping, and a written JSA create a common ground of information and a written record of compliance and due diligence.

Roles & Responsibilities of an Arborist

• Tree Health Assessment – Inspecting trees for diseases, pests, decay, and structural weaknesses.


• Pruning and Trimming – Removing dead or unsafe branches to improve tree health, safety, and aesthetics.


• Tree Removal – Safely cutting down hazardous, diseased, or unwanted trees.


• Planting and Transplanting – Selecting, planting, and relocating trees in suitable locations.


• Stump Grinding and Removal – Eliminating stumps to prevent regrowth and hazards.


• Emergency Tree Care – Responding to storm damage, fallen trees, or immediate safety risks.


• Equipment Operation and Maintenance – Using and maintaining chainsaws, climbing gear, and safety equipment.


• Compliance with Safety Standards – Following WorkSafe New Zealand protocols and best practices.


• Client Consultation – Advising property owners on tree care, risk management, and maintenance plans.


• Soil and Root Care – Assessing soil conditions, fertilising, and protecting root systems.


• Environmental Stewardship – Preserving ecosystems and protecting native species sustainably.


• Team Collaboration and Training – Working with other arborists and mentoring apprentices.

Appropriate levels of roles and communication minimise ambiguity and avoid mistakes. Toolbox talks coordinate the team against hazards and work orders, and a supervisor oversees them. The limitation of site access will mean that trained, briefed individuals are only exposed.

Protective Personal Equipment (PPE)

• Full face helmet with chin strap, and safety glasses or visor.


• Ear protection suitable for the noise level of a chainsaw/chipper.


• Chainsaw chaps/trousers and cut-resistant gloves.


• High-visibility clothing when around vehicles or the public.


• Footwear with good grip and ankle support.

Risk controls are followed by PPE as the last line of defence. Goggles, earplugs, chainsaw-specific clothing and hearing protection decrease the likelihood of injury; safe clothing prevents injury in accidents. PPE is a must under WorkSafe to be used consistently.

Equipment Inspection & Maintenance

• Test climbing equipment: harnesses, ropes, carabiners, and friction equipment.


• Chainsaws: check chain tension, sharpness, brake, throttle blocking, and fuel/oil.


• Rigging equipment: inspect ropes, blocks, pulleys, and lowering devices.


• Verify EWP certification if an elevated work platform is used.


• Remove substandard gear from service and document it.

Periodical inspections can avert disastrous failures. Sharp, tensioned chains and dependable brakes mean safer saws, and intact climbing and rigging gear means sure load handling. Recording of checks would be evidence towards compliance and accountability in the instance of an incident.

Tree Health and Structural Assessment

• Recognise species of trees and their growth form.


• Check for cavities, cracks, decay, or fungal fruiting bodies.


• Determine root stability, soil conditions, and any lean.


• Decide whether the tree can be climbed or requires EWP access.

Structural evaluation provides that access and rigging techniques are selected safely. Unstable roots or cavities, or decay may render climbing unsafe. A brief analysis can help avoid serious accidents by telling whether an alternative way, e.g. EWP, is necessary.

Access Method & Climbing Plan

• Determine the access method, either climbing or EWP access.


• Use safe anchoring points and use cambium protectors.


• Identify ascent paths and landing zones.


• Create a descent and rescue strategy before climbing.

The safety access is of primary concern to arborists. Choosing good anchors and designing dropping areas lowers the chances of injury to the workers and property. Practising rescue before climbing indicates the readiness for any emergency as per the wishes of WorkSafe.

Rigging & Cutting Plan

• Determine cut-types and their sequence.


• Ensure the rigging system components can handle the working load limits.


• Use taglines to regulate the swing of cut sections.


• Agree on definite words for signalling lifting and lowering.

Rigging ensures the safe transport of wood. The throttle and controlled cut ensure that unnecessary swings and radio/cable damage are avoided by taking agreed signals and rated gear. Pre-planning minimises the need to improvise and enables the action of the team to be more precise.

Work Execution & Monitoring

• Maintain clear communication between the climber and ground crew.


• Employ safe chainsaw and chipper practices.


• Pay attention to fatigue, hydration, and weather changes.


• Cease working and re-evaluate hazards as they change.

Safe execution is being in control and remaining mindful of the changing environment. It has to deal with fatigue and weather changes in advance. Constant communication and re-evaluation ensure the crew is communicated with and safe throughout the work.

Waste Management & Site Restoration

• Chip or wash away arisings as per the client agreement.


• Clean up and organise work areas, including gutters and roofs.


• Inspect for any accidental damage to the property.

Professional clean-up reflects the respect for the client and the local environment. Responsible disposal or chipping of debris and the handover of a site are things that convey a sense of trust and leave a permanent impression of quality and responsibility.

Emergency Preparedness

• Keep a first-aid kit stocked and accessible, and verify expiration dates.


• Have an emergency communication strategy at hand (site address, emergency contact number).


• Have a trained rescuer, a written aerial rescue plan, and rescue equipment on site before ascending.

Emergency preparation minimises damage. A pre-packaged first-aid kit and the availability of an emergency contact are known to speed the management of emergencies; communique announces reliable contact with emergency services and support at the scene. An aerial rescue strategy specific to the chosen access needs must be in place such that in the event a climber is laid low (injured or incapacitated), a planned, rehearsed rescue can be made safely-this is in line with WorkSafe expectations of high-risk work.

FAQs