Amenity Tree Industry code of practice

21 October 2002

This code of practice applies to the amenity tree industry for pruning, trimming, repairing, maintaining, transplanting and removing trees for wood chipping, stump grinding and for equipment used in such operations. It does not apply to commercial forestry.

The AWU helped develop this code of practice in 1998 to cover those who work with trees outside the commercial forestry industry. This includes occupations such as arborists, tree climbers, tree loppers, horticulturists, landscapers, tree workers, builders and developers and firewood contractors.

Tree work is extremely hazardous. The code runs through a number of solutions to common hazards using different types of control mechanisms. For example, the use of adequate traffic controls and training for operators.

Some of the hazards facing workers in this industry include working at heights, explosion, burns, objects falling onto workers, lacerations and crush injuries.