Appendix I Hazard Danger Tree.docx

2020 CORP 2.0 APPENDIX I HAZARD/DANGER TREE

HAZARD TREES

A “hazard tree” is a tree that has a structural defect that makes it likely to fail in whole or in part. Falling trees are an ever-present hazard when traveling or camping in the forest, yet too often we are unaware of the risks associated with defective trees. Trees are defective from age, fire and disease.

Hazard trees are a concern in developed sites, i.e. wherever development and trees co-occur. Development may be as simple as a bench or interpretive sign, or as elaborate as an urban area. The level of concern and attention is related to the nature of the development, its value, the amount of occupancy, and the number, species, and condition of trees on site.

Developed sites where hazard trees may occur include: campgrounds, boat launches, bunkhouses, fee collection areas, fishing facilities, guard stations, interpretive areas, leased home sites, outhouses, parking lots, picnic area, ranger stations, ski areas, storage yards, trailheads, visitor and work centers etc..

DANGER TREES

Danger trees are mainly along forest roads. A tree’s stability and structural integrity can be influenced by its location and the extent of structural defects, mechanical damage, insect attack, and disease, as well as work activities and weather conditions. During failure events, falling trees or parts may pose a danger to people or vehicles that may be struck by them.

Before work starts, and as often as necessary, a qualified person must evaluate danger trees within reach of a work area to determine if they pose a danger to personnel. When trees pose a danger they must be felled, or the work must be arranged to minimize danger to workers.

A qualified person is defined as a person who has knowledge, training, and experience in identifying danger trees, their potential-failure zones, and the appropriate measures to mitigate the danger.