Safe Work Australia releases updated WHS guidance for tree work

Safe Work Australia Releases Updated WHS Guidance for Tree Work

Safe Work Australia has released updated WHS guidance to help workers manage risks of tree work at height. The updated guide focuses on fall prevention practices essential for arborists and crews working at height on plant across construction and land management sites.

What Changed in the Updated Guide?

Safe Work Australia said the new 'Guide to managing risks of tree work' updates the previous guide to managing risks of tree trimming and removal work.

"The most significant changes in the guide relate to duties around managing the risk of falls when accessing trees and when to consider providing an additional backup safety line for single-rope access systems," Safe Work Australia stated.

Why Height Safety Matters for Tree Work

Falls from height remain a leading cause of serious injury for those working on trees, aerial plant and elevated platforms. Any task performed at height near live plant, branches or unstable ground carries compounding risk, which is why updated compliance measures now place greater emphasis on backup safety lines during single-rope access.

Businesses relying on tree crews should treat this guide as a benchmark for compliance, alongside broader Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) covering height-related tasks.

Key Takeaways for Employers and Crews

• Review current fall-prevention procedures against the updated guide before working at height on trees.
• Assess whether single-rope access systems require an additional backup safety line.
• Update SWMS documentation to reflect current standards for tree work and related plant use.
• Provide refresher briefings so workers understand new duties around height and access equipment.

Health and safety teams should also review associated products such as the Tree Work (Aerial) SWMS and the Make Safe (Tree Removal) SWMS, both of which align with updated guidance on managing risks at height.

Related Height and Rigging Resources

Crews working at height often rely on rigging plant alongside climbing and access gear. Reviewing a Rigging Safe Work Procedure can help ensure consistent compliance across height-based tasks involving plant and equipment.

The 'Guide to managing the risks of tree work' is accessible on the Safe Work Australia website, and organisations are encouraged to review it in full to confirm ongoing compliance with health and safety obligations.

Stay Informed with Safe Work Australia Updates

This release follows other recent updates from Safe Work Australia, including guidance for electricians and broader WHS data reporting. Readers can explore related coverage in our article on Safe Work Australia's updated WHS information for electricians, plus insights from Safe Work Australia's release of new WHS data.

Organisations training apprentices in height-related trades may also find value in our summary of the WHS outcomes for apprentices and trainees snapshot, and businesses planning awareness campaigns can review details on National Safe Work Month 2023 for further resources supporting workplace health initiatives.