In order to ensure the safety of all participants, the classroom portion of this training will be done by a video developed by Tim Ard, President of Forest Applications,Training Inc., a week prior to the training. We will ask that members view the video and take a quiz so that they understand basic tenets in preparation for the hands-on portion the following week. We request at least one supervisor, participate in this training.
The video will address elements of a chainsaw program: identifying potential hazards; determining side or weighted lean; determining an escape route; determining hinge size; establishing a cutting plan; PPE; maintenance of equipment to reduce downtime; sharpening the chain; reactive forces; directional felling; limbing and bucking; spring poles; use of wedges; and storm damage and removal/clean-up.
The video is approximately 2.5 hours in length. Once scheduled, MIIA will supply a link to the training video and quiz.
Field Day
This training involves each individual participant felling a tree and then working as a team in a storm debris removal situation. It has an emphasis on safety and planning.
To hold the training class on-site the hosting member will need to have 8 trees that can be felled. Eight individuals can participate in the field day training. For the safety of all, we recommend that these individuals be vaccinated.
The hands-on day in the field will be led by instructor Tim Ard of Forest Applications. Field topics addressed will re-inforce and illustrate video content including potential hazards; side or weighted lean; escape routes; hinge size and creating the hinge; cutting plan; PPE; reactive forces; directional felling; limbing and bucking; spring poles; use of wedges; and storm damage and removal/clean-up.
In Addition
Students are required to bring and wear the following ANSI approved personal protective equipment (PPE) for the Instructor-led demonstration: hard hat, safety glasses and/or face screen or shield, hearing protection, hi-visibility clothing, safety footwear, appropriate weather- related work clothing. Additional considerations-Bug spray, sunscreen, knowledge of physical and biological hazards and a first aid kit. Ability to walk and navigate through outdoor terrain including vegetation, underbrush, downed trees, and light forestry conditions.
A “Certificate of Attendance” will be issued to each student completing the video and quiz and the full day of training. MIIA members qualify for 1% credit under the FY22 Rewards Workers Compensation category.
Instructor
Tim Ard
Tim Ard, President of Forest Applications Training, Inc. is a nationally known chainsaw instructor. Tim has worked in the outdoor power industry for over 36 years. He started on the bench working with lawn mower ad saw repairs. Tim became an expert with technical service working national for about 9 years. For the past three decades, Tim has instructed loggers, tree care, utility, forester, parks and recreation, DOT and homeowners in the safe operation and care of chainsaws.
