Do you need help removing or trimming trees or shrubs from your property? Make sure you hire a trained and competent tree maintenance professional to help you get this work done safely.
As a property owner, you have legal obligations to comply with the OHS Act.
New Brunswick’s Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act and its regulations have specific requirements that may affect your project. For example, there are rules for working at height, working alone and working with chainsaws and other power tools. Workers must have and use the proper protective equipment. First aid must also be available on site.
Focus on safety to help keep your project on track
- Always hire a tree maintenance professional who is, competent, reputable and safety-conscious.
- Preferably, hire an arborist that is certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
- Ask about experience and training and for proof of workers’ compensation coverage.
- Remember, when the project is underway, your property may be considered a workplace under the OHS Act. As a property owner, you have legal obligations to comply with the Act. If an accident occurs, you could be found liable for failing to meet those obligations and may be sued for any injuries that occur.
- Hiring safety-conscious arborists will not only help protect you from liability, but more importantly it will also reduce the chance of injuries.
Are you ready to cut?
- Ensure your arborist or tree maintenance professional is competent and registered with WorkSafeNB.
- Ask your arborist to provide a workers’ compensation clearance certificate. This is proof they have workers’ compensation coverage. Clearance certificates are available on our website.
- Ensure any injuries that occur during the project are reported to WorkSafeNB.
Questions for your tree maintenance professional:
- How long have you been in business?
- What licenses or qualifications do you have for your trade?
- What education, training, including safety training, do you have?
- Are your employees trained and regularly updated on new processes and equipment?
- Do you comply with the OHS Act and its regulations?
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