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Educational Sessions

Arborist Safety

An Analysis of Non-Fatal Traumatic Events Among Tree Workers
Monday, 10 August 2015
3:30 PM — 4:10 PM
Osceola Ballroom D
A, U, T, M, L, Bp
Tree work is among the highest risk occupations. Fatal and non-fatal injuries are much higher than the all-industry averages. This study reviews worker’s compensation (WC) data from ten states along with the Survey of Occupation Injury and Illness (SOII) conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Accident Investigation Reports (AIR) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to analyze non-fatal traumatic events among tree workers. The analysis of WC, SOII and AIR categorizes the incidents by event or exposure, types of claims (injuries), time-loss days, and cost to construct a ranking. This can be used for preventative priority setting purposes to focus on work events that are most likely to result in the great loss-day and costs and what practices can be put in place to reduce these events.

Presenter Information

    • John Ball
      Professor of Forestry at South Dakota State University and the Forest Health Specialist for the South Dakota Department of Agriculture. Also instructor for emergency medical technican course and pre-hospital tramua life support.