Certified Tree Worker Exam

Are you more concerned about the written part or the practical test climb?

The written (multiple choice) exam is kind of CA lite. I believe I recognized a couple of questions as repeats from my CA exam. Read the questions carefully so you don't get caught out on tricky wording, and it's not too hard at all.

The tree ID samples on my exam were all pictures, very nice clear photography, 4 or 5 shots of different aspects of each tree, so if you know your trees, the ID key is there somewhere.

The practical climb was easy. An easy throwball shot, couple of TIP advancements to a pre-marked height, then both limb-walks to the work stations were straightforward. One limb-walk I could have maybe used a redirect, but not required. We had 30 minutes to do the whole climb, I was done in under 10, and I was being very deliberate with every move.

I think one key to the practical is keeping a commentary going for the examiners, so they have no question about you're being on top of things. "OK, I'm doing my pre-climb inspection now, no electrical hazards present, no visible defects, there is some deadwood there and there, but nothing that looks like it will present a hazard...blah, blah, blah." I had two examiners, I actually requested one please put on his hardhat as he would be in my workzone, don't know if that was a "test" or not, but there you go.

All in all, pretty basic. Don't drop your handsaw, and good luck!

Northwind
 
Remember to stay tied in at all times. A lot of people fail because they cannnot install their rope in the tree. They give you a selected crotch about 20' in the tree where you are to install your line. You can throw the rope or use a throw ball. You are allowed 5 attempts or throws. After that, you have 20 minutes to climb higher to the selected tie in point, usually about 30 to 40 up. If you can't make it there in 20 minutes you won't be allowed to continue the test to the other 2 work stations.
If you climb regularly, and safely it shouldn't be a problem.
Make sure to take two of everything in case they deem any of your gear unsafe or unapproved.
 
I was talking to an test giver just the other week because we have two guys taking the test in our office. One of the hints he gave our guys was to practice the sheets bend. Most guys already know it but not by its name. Its the most common missed knot. Hope that helps some.
 
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