FACE Report: Trimmer struck by limb from storm-damaged tree

Case report: #71-243-2023
Issued by: Washington Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program
Date of report: July 24, 2023

A 51-year-old tree trimmer and certified arborist was part of a three-person crew sent to cut down a storm-damaged maple in the backyard of a private residence. The trimmer oversaw the crew and jobsite. The maple was supporting two uprooted fir trees and a mass of broken branches. The firs were intended to fall when the maple was cut down. The trimmer climbed to the top of the maple, cut a few branches with a chainsaw and climbed back down to cut the remaining 38-foot section of the tree to a low stump. He performed the face cut, followed by the back cut, at the base of the tree. As he began cutting, a limb broke off a fir tree and got hung up in the canopy without anyone noticing. The limb was 14 feet long and about 4 inches thick, and weighed 70-100 pounds. While the back cut was being made, the maple formed a vertical crack that dislodged the broken limb. When the trimmer looked up toward the sound of the crack, the limb fell straight down, striking him in the forehead. A crew member called 911 and began CPR until first responders arrived and pronounced the trimmer dead at the scene.

To help prevent similar occurrences, employers and workers should:

• Develop policies that require a jobsite assessment before any tree removal. Identify loose limbs, hangers, broken tops, chunks, lodged trees, leaning trees, snags and other overhead material. Assess the area for hazards and obstacles.
• Use a bucket truck, binoculars or, where permissible, drone technology to visually detect overhead hazards concealed in the tree canopy.
• Plan an escape route and maintain situational awareness in the drop zone. Look up, down and all around before, during and after tree removal. During felling, use a spotter and pause often to check for hanging or lodged limbs before continuing. Stay alert for environmental changes that could worsen tree hazard risks. Ensure required personal protective equipment is worn.