Inspection Detail

Inspection: 3350022 - Newman'S Tree Service

Inspection Information - Office: Virginia Safety 4

Investigation Summary

At approximately 9:45 a.m. on December 11, 1985, Employee #1 climbed approximately 43 ft in a poplar tree in the back yard of a private residence. According to witnesses, Employee #1 was wearing and properly using a safety belt during his climb. When he reached the area that he was going to trim, he, for some reason, unhooked his safety belt from around the tree. Before he could attach it, he lost his grip and fell approximately 40 ft to the ground. He tried to get up but was restrained by coworkers while rescue personnel were being called to the scene. While he was being transported to the hospital, he began to experience respiratory problems that required CPR. He died at 11:18 a.m. of severe internal injuries. The fall was a result of his not being secured to the tree with his safety belt. Employee #1 was said to have had over five years experience in this type of work and should have known the proper safety procedure.

Keywords:respiratory, cpr, work rules, safety belt, fall, fall protection, tie-off, tree trimming