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From what I can glean the pressure isn't coming from SPRAT to influence tree climbing it's coming from tree climbers who feel that SPRAT-type guidelines should be followed for tree climbing.
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Tom, this may be the case in the tree care industry, but out in CA, it's the actual SPRAT guys that are putting the pressure on the other climbers.
Caltrans is way above other State DOT in their use of climbers. They have 3 separate and individual programs;
1) Structural (for bridges, buildings & towers) - SPRAT
2) Arboricultural (all tree work) - ANSI
3) High Scalers (all rock and slope work) -PCIA
It's the SPRAT crews that are trying to change the regulations to require all State climbers to use only their methods.
For those that have never heard of PCIA (not our TCIA), it's the Professional Climbing Instructor's Association. This is the certification that the High Scalers use.
Very good organization, here's their website:
http://www.pcia.us/
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Theres potentially a lot of money to be made in training Chris....and if you had influence with ANSI, then, wow.
One of the things I dont the miss about the UK. Not that they took much money from me personally....I was able to stay below the radar for many years, but for bigger companies it was/is unavoidable....if you want to remain insured that is.
The training companies advise the HSE, (ANSI equivalent) on what is needed, who then make it law. Probably two of the worst examples are the requirement to 'pay' to have your climbing and rigging equipment inspected twice a year by a an inspector. This inspector becomes a qualified person by taking a days training on the subject. You cant inspect your own gear, you have to pay.
The most laughable of all is refresher training, that they are pushing for now. The idea that your certs (that you pay for) need to be refreshed. Apparently you need to be reminded of how to climb/ cut/ fall a tree, at your own expense of course.
I took the original Certs when they were first introduced about 20 years ago....and then the updated version probably 10 years after. The criteria on both occasions were laughable, but like I said, compulsory if you want to stay insured. With a few exceptions, most of the trainers I have come a cross are puss ies and frauds....but they found easy money in training, and are getting away with it.
Ive never heard of any Training society or organization who are voluntary....and the North American Tree care industry as a market obviously has massive potential, financially.
Treework's often a tough job, but its not an overly complicated one by any stretch....with common sense and a cool head being the workers best asset....not that you can be trained on either. Yet there's always a portion of individuals who seem to want to be told what they should be doing and how they should go about it. Just figure it out. Do your job....and dont let trouble through the door.
