Tree Faller Onboarding Checklist

Tree Faller Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Tree Faller starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Forestry onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Tree Faller, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Tree Faller onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Tree Faller Onboarding Checklist

1. Safety Training: The first and foremost task for a new tree faller is to undergo comprehensive safety training. This includes learning about the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), understanding safety protocols, and familiarizing oneself with emergency procedures. This training is typically conducted by the company’s safety officer or a designated safety trainer.

2. Equipment Familiarization: As a tree faller, it is crucial to be well-versed in the operation and maintenance of various equipment used in forestry, such as chainsaws, felling wedges, and safety harnesses. The company’s equipment manager or a senior tree faller usually provides hands-on training to ensure the new employee is proficient in using and caring for the tools of the trade.

3. Forest Management Practices: Understanding the principles of sustainable forest management is essential for a tree faller. This task involves learning about the company’s specific forest management practices, including identifying tree species, assessing tree health, and recognizing signs of disease or infestation. This knowledge is typically imparted by a forestry specialist or a senior tree faller with extensive experience.

4. Tree Identification: A crucial aspect of a tree faller’s job is being able to identify different tree species accurately. This task involves learning to recognize various tree characteristics, such as bark patterns, leaf shapes, and growth habits. A forestry expert or an experienced tree faller often provides training and guidance in tree identification.

5. Communication and Teamwork: Effective communication and teamwork are vital for a tree faller, especially when working in a crew. This task involves learning how to communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and other stakeholders. It also includes understanding the importance of coordination, cooperation, and following instructions. This training is typically provided by a crew leader or a senior tree faller.

6. Environmental Regulations: A tree faller must be aware of and comply with environmental regulations and permits related to forestry operations. This task involves learning about local, state, and federal regulations governing tree felling, habitat protection, and environmental impact mitigation. The company’s environmental compliance officer or a designated specialist usually provides training on these regulations.

7. Emergency Response Training: In the event of an accident or emergency, a tree faller must be prepared to respond promptly and appropriately. This task involves learning first aid and CPR techniques, as well as understanding emergency response protocols specific to the forestry industry. Training is typically conducted by a certified first aid instructor or a safety officer.

8. Physical Fitness and Conditioning: Tree falling is physically demanding work, requiring strength, endurance, and agility. This task involves participating in physical fitness training programs designed to improve overall fitness, strength, and flexibility. The company may have a designated fitness trainer or provide access to fitness facilities for this purpose.

9. Job Shadowing: To gain practical experience and learn from experienced professionals, a new tree faller often engages in job shadowing. This task involves accompanying and observing experienced tree fallers in the field, learning their techniques, and understanding the nuances of the job. Job shadowing is typically facilitated by a senior tree faller or a designated mentor.

10. Performance Evaluation and Feedback: Regular performance evaluations and feedback sessions are crucial for a tree faller’s growth and development. This task involves participating in performance reviews, discussing strengths and areas for improvement, and setting goals for professional development. The company’s supervisor or human resources department typically conducts these evaluations

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Tree Faller checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Tree Faller up to speed and working well in your Forestry team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.