Required Gear

This information guide is meant to aid in selection of gear required or recommended for the Advance Rigging (Crane Assisted) Course Arborists climbing harness, tools, and safety gear is specially manufactured for the arboricultural industry and is sold and distributed by many arborist’s suppliers. DO NOT COMPROMISE SAFETY! Buy ANSI approved gear from reputable supply dealers. Good suppliers should be able to recommend proper fit. Used gear is acceptable, but all climbing equipment and PPE will be inspected and approved by the instructors. Please come with all gear on the first day of class.

Required – A Minimum Length of 120 Feet of Climbing Rope

Arborist climbing lines are those defined by the manufacturer as suitable for tree care operations. There are many options available. They must have a minimum breaking strength of 5400 pounds. Any arborist specific line is acceptable for the doubled rope techniques that will be shown in the class. All life support lines should be used ONLY for life support. The instructors must inspect approve all ropes during the first day’s class.

Required – ANSI Approved Climbing Saddle 

All Saddles must be ANSI rated for work positioning. Fall arrest harnesses are not appropriate unless they are also rated for work positioning. All saddles must be in good repair. They must have a minimum breaking strength of 5000 pounds. The instructors must inspect approve all saddles during the first day’s class.

Required – ANSI Approved Connecting Link

An appropriate connecting link is required to connect the climber line to his or her saddle. All links must be in good condition. If steel “tree snaps” are used they must be double auto locking and meet or exceed 5000 pound breaking strength. If steel or aluminum carabiners are used they must be triple auto locking. (Two distinct motions before the gate will open) The must be rated for at least 23 Kilo Newtons (KN).

Any connecting ling shall be attached to the climbing line by means of a cinching-type knot or eye splice. An eye splice shall be secured so as to maintain alignment with the strongest axis of the connecting link.

Required –ANSI Approved Climbing Hardhat With Chinstrap

Hard hats must be worn during all outdoor sessions. Climbers entering the tree must have head protection with a functional chin strap. Hard hats must be ANSI class “C” rated.

Although not required for this course, ear protection should be worn while operating chainsaws, chippers, and other equipment. You might consider a hardhat designed with eye protection screens and ear protection attached, but they are not required.

Required – Safety Lanyard

A safety lanyard for redundant tie-in and securing while repositioning the main climbing line is required. It should be of an appropriate length to work on large trees and large diameter trunks. Steel core lanyards are acceptable if no electrical hazards are present.

Required – Work Boots, warm clothing, and safety glasses

Work boots with a shank covering the foot to above the ankle, long pants and shirts are required. ANSI approved Safety glasses clearly marked on frame and lenses are required.

We will be working outdoors at every opportunity, so clothing appropriate for the outdoor temperature is essential. Bring clear or non-shaded Safety glasses incase of inclement weather or poor lighting conditions.

Pruning Saw and Climbers

A hand saw with scabbard is required. Climbers, or Spikes may also be used during removals and are strongly recommended for use in the tree.

*** SAFETY GLASSES AND HEARING PROTECTION ARE MANDATORY FOR THIS COURSE.