At Vertical Forestry, our commitment to excellence in safety and training is paramount. We understand that the key to a successful tree service operation lies in the proficiency and safety of its workforce.
Every training challenge is also an opportunity; the opportunity to develop an employee who has untapped potential. When looking for higher levels of safety or skill within a partner company, Vertical Forestry always looks for people who are willing and able to drive change forward. Developing each employee – and considering each as a potential leader – creates momentum for employees and the companies where they work.
Beginnings
Our approach is holistic, addressing the diverse needs of tree service companies to ensure they operate at the highest standards. This section outlines how Vertical Forestry improves safety and training across four critical subcategories: Sales, Trainers for Tree Care Operations, Equipment Operation, and Climbing.
But for an overall idea of how implementation occurs, consider the first safety steps for any tree service:
- Safety Manuals and SOPs: These explain the rules for safe tree work and the procedures for standard operations. Safety rules aren’t negotiable, but the timing and manner in which new protocols are presented impact workers’ daily routines. We respect tree climbers and workers and we use disagree & commit principles to create consensus among field employees.
- Regular Safety Meetings: If it’s not already been implemented, meeting weekly (sometimes referred to as ‘tailgates’) to discuss safety is a very cost-effective way to keep staff engaged and lower the chance of accidents. It also helps build new leaders by exposing them to public speaking. Just as important are the yearly trainings – such as for CPR, Aerial rescue, and EHAP, which greatly enhance safety and cohesion of the team.
- Certifications: Tree work is technical and at Vertical Forestry we take technical instruction seriously. Whether it’s groundwork, climbing, bobcat, bucket, or crane operation, or something more involved, we give attention and instruction to employees to empower them to perform. It takes a weight off of management’s shoulders as well to know that proficiency is verified.
- Culture of Safety: We foster a culture where every employee understands their role in maintaining a safe work environment. For a culture of safety to exist, more is needed than just a desire for coworkers to be safe. There must be consequences for rule breaking and rewards for safe behavior. While it doesn’t happen overnight, Vertical Forestry is experienced at bringing tree companies into compliance without damaging the positive elements of an existing culture.
Sales’ role
Effective sales teams are the revenue-generating side of a tree service company, as well as the client-facing side. There is plenty of pressure on them, but sales personnel must also be knowledgeable about safety standards and operational capabilities. They are the first line of defense for tree workers – recognizing hazards in the field and finding solutions that address those hazards.
Vertical Forestry can help sales tackle these challenges even if sales may lack some field experience. While most sales coaching is geared towards revenue generation, we also train sales to understand operational workflows, safety hazards, manage expectations with clients, and to provide accurate time estimates. These bear fruit in terms of reduced exposure, better equipment utilization and improved relationships with clients.
Safety & Training – Implementation
Vertical Forestry's commitment to enhancing safety and training for our partner companies is unwavering. By focusing on comprehensive training programs across sales, trainers for tree care operations, equipment operation, and climbing, we ensure that our partners operate at the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our holistic approach not only reduces risks but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and improvement, setting our partners on a path to sustainable growth and success.
Through our tailored training programs and unwavering commitment to safety, Vertical Forestry helps tree service companies thrive in a competitive and demanding industry.
Trainers for Tree Care Operations
Having skilled trainers is vital for maintaining high safety standards and operational efficiency. Vertical Forestry focuses on developing trainers who can impart essential skills and knowledge to their teams.
Our Training Programs for Trainers Include:
- Advanced Training Techniques: We equip trainers with the latest methodologies for teaching complex tree care skills. This includes hands-on training, simulation exercises, and the use of technology to enhance learning.
- Leadership Development: Trainers are also leaders. Our programs focus on developing their leadership skills, enabling them to inspire and motivate their teams.
- Safety First Approach: Trainers are taught to prioritize safety in every aspect of their instruction. This ensures that all employees learn to operate with safety as their primary concern.
- Continuous Evaluation: Trainers undergo regular assessments to ensure they are providing effective and up-to-date training. Feedback mechanisms are in place to continuously improve training quality.
Equipment Operation
Proper equipment operation is crucial for the safety and efficiency of tree care operations. Vertical Forestry’s training programs ensure that all employees are proficient in using the various tools and machinery required in their daily tasks.
Our Equipment Operation Training Includes:
- Comprehensive Equipment Training: We provide detailed instruction on the use of all essential equipment, from chainsaws and rigging ropes to advanced machinery like cranes.
- Safety Protocols: Emphasis is placed on understanding and following safety protocols specific to each piece of equipment. This includes proper maintenance, safe handling, and emergency procedures.
- Hands-On Experience: Training involves practical, hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced operators. This helps employees gain confidence and proficiency.
- Ongoing Certification: Employees are required to undergo periodic re-certification to ensure they remain competent and up to date with the latest safety standards and operational techniques.
Climbing
Tree climbing is one of the most hazardous tasks in the tree care industry. Ensuring that climbers are well-trained and proficient is essential for their safety and the success of operations.
Our Climbing Training Program Covers:
- Basic to Advanced Climbing Techniques: We provide comprehensive training on climbing techniques, starting from basic skills to advanced maneuvers required for complex tree care tasks such as MRS, SRS, and others.
- Safety Gear and Equipment: Climbers are trained in the proper use of safety gear, including harnesses, ropes, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Emphasis is placed on regular equipment checks and maintenance.
- Risk Assessment and Management: Climbers learn how to assess risks and make informed decisions to mitigate potential hazards. This includes understanding tree biology, environmental factors, and emergency procedures.
Climbing
Tree climbing is one of the most hazardous tasks in the tree care industry. Ensuring that climbers are well-trained and proficient is essential for their safety and the success of operations.
Our Climbing Training Program Covers:
- Basic to Advanced Climbing Techniques: We provide comprehensive training on climbing techniques, starting from basic skills to advanced maneuvers required for complex tree care tasks such as MRS, SRS, and others.
- Safety Gear and Equipment: Climbers are trained in the proper use of safety gear, including harnesses, ropes, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Emphasis is placed on regular equipment checks and maintenance.
- Risk Assessment and Management: Climbers learn how to assess risks and make informed decisions to mitigate potential hazards. This includes understanding tree biology, environmental factors, and emergency procedures.
