New York Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (NY FACE)

Tree-Work Fatal Injury Facts

In New York, 25 workers died doing tree work or logging between 2002 and 2005. Below are real-life descriptions of workers who were killed on the job.

• A logger was killed when he cut a support tree that was holding up a lodged tree. The lodged tree struck him.
• A tree service worker was electrocuted when his pruning tool touched a 7,200V power line.
• A tree service owner fell 100 feet to his death while trimming tree branches when the branch he was tied to snapped.
• A tree service worker was killed while chipping branches when he was caught and pulled into a wood chipper.
• A logger was killed when the butt of a tree he was cutting kicked back and struck him in the face.

How Can These Accidents Be Prevented?

• Always work in teams.
• Inspect work zones prior to any work to ensure they are free from hazards such as danger trees, hanging limbs, power lines, or uneven terrain.
• Plan felling directions, felling hinges, and escape paths.
• Check the condition of tree branches before climbing on them or tying off safety equipment.
• Inspect equipment before each shift and remove damaged equipment from service until repaired.
• Follow manufacturers' recommended procedures for safe operation, trouble shooting, and maintenance when working with machinery.
• Get proper training in the use of a chainsaw.

New York Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation (NY FACE)

The NY FACE program is supported by a grant from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Additional information can be obtained by contacting:

New York State Department of Health
Bureau of Occupational Health and Injury Prevention
Empire State Plaza-Corning Tower, Room 1336
Albany, New York 12237