Jan
8

Tree Removal Assistance Program Informational Session and Q&A

We will be hosting a Contractor Information Session & Q&A on January 8th at 9:00 a.m. (Please register here for the Zoom session). This meeting is designed to clarify the application workflow, outline expectations, and address any early questions so that we can process applications efficiently. Arborists and tree care companies are essential partners in this work, and we want to make sure you are fully supported as the program launches.

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Jan
20

Safety Webinar: ASC Z133 2026 Updates

The ASC Z133 standard serves as the cornerstone of arboricultural safety in North America. The upcoming 2026 revision introduces some of the most significant structural and technical changes in the standard’s 50-year history. This presentation provides a focused overview of the Z133–2026 updates, with particular attention to high-impact changes affecting electrical hazard classification, drop zone management, aerial operations, rigging practices, chainsaw use, and emergency response requirements.

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Jan
21
to Jan 22

Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualification (WRRQ)

The Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualification (WRRQ), developed by Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Chapter ISA, expands the reach of the state forestry agency’s wildfire prevention messaging while equipping certified arborists with another tool in their tool box to meet client needs.

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Winter Workshop & Awards Banquet
Jan
24

Winter Workshop & Awards Banquet

Winter Management Workshop and Award Ceremony

Please join us for an afternoon of of education and an evening of networking & celebration with friends! Together we will welcome in the New Year as we celebrate our accomplishments & recognize those who have given their extra time & energy to help the GAA and the industry professionals we serve. 

Flinchum's Phoenix 

650 Phoenix Rd, Athens, GA 30605

January 24th, 2026

1 pm - 9:30 pm

3.5 CEUS

AGENDA

1:00 pm - Check In and Get Settled 
1:30 PM - How to Start a Successful Tree Care Company From Two Perspectives 
2:45 PM Break
3:00 PM - The Art of Tree Care Marketing with Edward Morrow
4:15 PM - Success Sales Strategies Roundtable of Industry Experts
5:30 PM - Break and Get Ready for Dinner

6:00 PM - Open Reception and Networking
7:00 PM  - Dinner and Awards Ceremony
 

About the Speakers -- more information to follow: 

Edward Morrow, an ISA Certified Arborist/author, created Tree S.T.A.R.S. to inspire the next generation of green industry professionals. He develops engaging tree programs to help audiences/neighborhoods ease their tree care fears. Professional collaborations include: The TCIA, ISA, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation, and Georgia Master Gardeners Association.

More speaker information to come!

Workshop and Award Banquet Member Ticket $100

Workshop and Award Banquet Non-Member Ticket $150

Just Award Banquet Members $55
Just Award Banquet Non-Members $75

Attendee Registration includes dinner & drinks for in person attendees

Sponsorship  $1000

Sponsorship includes 2 tickets to event, logo recognition on all event correspondence, recognition on event presentation, and a moment to address attendees.  Exhibit table included.

All Industry Professionals Welcome!

Bring your team & invite your friends!

Dress: Business Casual

Hotel block:

To book your stay at Hotel Indigo, in Downtown Athens, call IHG Hotel Reservations directly at 1-866-808-1483 and reference the Georgia Arborists Association (block code: GAR) or use this link: Georgia Arborists Association  . Be sure to book your hotel room by 01/14/2026 in order to receive your discount.

For special accommodations or extended dates, reach out to the Hotel Indigo Sales Dept. directly by calling 706.546.0430 ext. 2.

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City in a Forest film screening: Georgia Arbor Day
Feb
20

City in a Forest film screening: Georgia Arbor Day

Join us for the premiere of City in a Forest, a powerful documentary that explores the significance of Atlanta's urban forest and the intricate balance required to preserve it within a bustling metropolis. Follow the stories of key stakeholders whose work shines a light on the importance of protecting this hidden treasure.

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Tree Climber Academy
Mar
27
to Jun 30

Tree Climber Academy

REGISTER

Academia de Trepadores

4 cursos de dia completo 

marzo-junio 2026

miembros de GAA: $75 por curso/$250 academia completa 

miembros del publico $100 por curso/$350 academia completa 

evento en español 

 

Curso 1: RCP y primeros auxilios para arboristas, seguridad eléctrica, introducción a las cuerdas

Curso 2: Rescate aéreo

Curso 3: Nudos, cuerdas, aparejos y seguridad

Curso 4: Día de la prueba de evaluación física

 

Esta academia está diseñada para ayudar a los trepadores de árboles actuales a cumplir los requisitos necesarios para el examen ISA Certified Tree Climber Specialist y adquirir un mayor conocimiento sobre la trepa técnica de árboles. Cada curso está diseñado para cumplir uno de los requisitos de cualificación. El último curso de la academia es un día de examen en el que los examinadores actuales de la ISA evaluarán a los candidatos siguiendo las directrices prácticas de la ISA.

 

El programa ISA Certified Tree Climber es la única certificación global de trepadores en toda la industria que evalúa conocimientos y habilidades frente a estándares aceptados internacionalmente relacionados con habilidades y prácticas laborales seguras. Como parte integral de su trayectoria profesional, ser un profesional en trepa de árboles certificado por la ISA le permite demostrar sus competencias como trepador y demonstrar su pasión continua por el aprendizaje y el desarrollo en esta industria.

Para ser elegible para el examen, debe tener lo siguiente:

1.) Dieciocho meses de experiencia en escalada en arboricultura

2.) Capacitación actual en rescate aéreo físico (práctica), RCP y primeros auxilios

En esta guía del programa se encuentra disponible toda la información para solicitantes, candidatos y titulares de credenciales.

Las partes interesadas deben solicitar y aplicar para presentar el examen de Escalador Certificado de Árboles de la ISA a través de https://www.isa-arbor.com/

Convertirse en candidato para una certificación de la ISA es un proceso de dos pasos a través de tu cuenta en línea MyISA.

  1. Primero, aplica en línea o envía una solicitud completada.

  2. Cuando recibas la notificación de que tu solicitud ha sido aprobada, podrás inscribirte a través de tu cuenta en el sitio web para presentar el examen.

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Tree Climber's Academy

4 full-day courses

March-June 2025

GAA members: $75 per course/$250 full academy

Members of the public: $100 per course/$350 full academy

this is Spanish language event 

Course 1: CPR and First Aid for Arborists, Electrical Safety, Intro to Ropes

Course 2: Aerial Rescue

Course 3: Knots, Ropes, Rigging, and Safety

Course 4: Physical Evaluation Test Day

 

This Spanish language academy is designed to help current tree climbers meet the pre-requisite qualifications needed for the ISA Certified Tree Climber Specialist exam and gain further understanding about technical tree climbing .  Each course is designed to meet one of the qualification needs. The last course of the academy is an exam day where current ISA tree climber examiners will asses testers following the ISA practicum guidelines.

The ISA Certified Tree Climber program is the only global, industry-wide climber certification to test knowledge and skills against internationally accepted standards related to skill and safe work practices. As an integral part of a career journey, being an ISA Certified Tree Climber allows you to show your competencies as a professional climber and ignites a continued passion for learning and development in this industry. To be eligible for the exam, you must have the following:

  • Eighteen months of climbing experience in arboriculture

  • Current training in a physical (practice) aerial rescue, CPR, and First Aid

Important applicant, candidate and credential holder information is available on this program guide.

Interested parties must still request and apply to take the ISA certified Tree Climber exam via https://wwv.isa-arbor.com/ 

Becoming a candidate for an ISA certification is a two-step process through your online MyISA Dashboard.

1. First, apply online or submit a completed application.

2. When you receive notice that your application is approved, you may then enroll through your website account to take an exam.  

HOTEL INFORMATION

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Evaluación de la Salud del árbol
May
22

Evaluación de la Salud del árbol

register

Evaluación de la Salud del árbol

viernes 22 de mayo, 2026

9am-12pm

Legacy Park 500 S Columbia Dr, Decatur, GA 30030

Gratis con registro, espacio limitado

Una evaluación de riesgos de los árboles es su oportunidad de obtener una medida completa y comprender la salud de sus árboles y los riesgos potenciales que puede enfrentar. Los árboles pueden fallar de diversas formas; un arborista experto sabrá qué tipo de falla es más probable para un árbol determinado y podrá brindar asesoramiento significativo sobre las formas de reducir el riesgo de ese tipo particular de falla anticipada.

Una evaluación de riesgos puede ayudarlo a localizar árboles o áreas problemáticas y nuestro arborista certificado le explicará qué se debe hacer con ellos. Algunas de las razones para programar una evaluación de riesgos incluyen:

  • Salud de los árboles: los árboles brindan comodidad y atractivo exterior a su propiedad. A menudo, puede medir la salud continua de sus árboles con una evaluación de riesgos de los árboles, asegurándose de que se mantengan saludables y felices.

  • Riesgos del seguro: el daño a los árboles no siempre está cubierto por el seguro del propietario, especialmente cuando no está relacionado con una tormenta. Una evaluación de riesgos no solo puede evitar que tenga que lidiar con daños, sino que también puede ayudar a que su seguro cubra una parte de los daños.

  • Daños a la propiedad: un árbol o una rama caídos pueden causar daños importantes a su hogar o propiedad. Desde una canaleta rota hasta un techo o ventanas destrozadas. Una evaluación de riesgos de los árboles le ayudará a saber dónde se encuentra antes de que las cosas se dañen.

Problemas y riesgos comunes que incluyen:

  • Madera podrida o corteza en mal estado

  • Cables eléctricos aéreos

  • Copa demasiado crecida

  • Ramas de árboles muertas o dañadas

  • Ramas de árboles desprendidas o colgantes

  • Posibles daños en el techo o el vehículo

  • Crecimiento de hongos alrededor de las raíces y la base del tronco

  • Plagas y enfermedades

  • Erosión de las raíces

  • Tronco inclinado

  • Salud o daños en los árboles adyacentes

Acerca del instructor: Juan C. Carrasco es el Director de Cuidado de la Salud de las Plantas en Atlanta Arbor y un Maestro Arborista Certificado por la Junta con más de 30 años de experiencia dedicada a la industria verde.




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(Spanish chainsaw training) Motosierras: tecnicas y seguridad en espanol
Dec
13

(Spanish chainsaw training) Motosierras: tecnicas y seguridad en espanol

Motosierras: tecnicas y seguridad en espanol

sabado 13 de diciembre, 2025

8am-3pm

3241 Jonesboro Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30354

CEUs disponible

GRATIS para miembros de la GAA

$35 para miembros del publico 

En esta capacitacion vas aprender sobre el uso correcto, mantenimiento, seguridad, y techniquas practicas para el uso de motosierras en la arboricultura y el campo.  

Los objetivos del curso de capacitación son:

- Capacitar al personal de cuidado de árboles sobre los peligros asociados con el uso de motosierras.

- Operaciones básicas de motosierras (tronzado, desrame, tala básica).

- Peligros y procedimientos para trabajos en tormentas y árboles peligrosos.

- Capacitar en técnicas adecuadas y buenas prácticas aceptadas.

- Cuidado y mantenimiento básico de la motosierra

- Incrementar la participación en el cumplimiento general de las normas de seguridad de OSHA y la autovigilancia.

EPI OBLIGATORIO

TRAIGA SU PROPIA MOTOSIERRA

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This Course is in SPANISH

Chainsaws: Techniques and Safety in Spanish

Saturday December 13, 2025

8am-3pm

3241 Jonesboro Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30354

CEUs available

FREE for GAA members

$35 for members of the public

In this training, you will learn about the proper use, maintenance, safety, and practical techniques for using chainsaws in arboriculture and the field.

The objectives of the training course are:

- To train tree care personnel on the hazards associated with chainsaw use.

- Basic chainsaw operations (bucking, limbing, basic felling).

- Hazards and procedures for working in storms and hazardous trees.

- To train in proper techniques and accepted best practices.

- Basic chainsaw care and maintenance

- Increase participation in general OSHA safety compliance and self-monitoring.

PPE MANDATORY

BRING YOUR OWN CHAINSAW

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Dec
10
to Dec 12

ISA TRAQ Full Course (Marietta)

December 10-12th, 2025

COURSE LOCATION: 

Vermeer Southeast
1320 Gresham Rd NE
Marietta GA 30062

Instructor:

Jimmy Walters 

14.5 CEUs Available

Registration Deadline:

November 1st, 2025

(Slots fill up fast!  Register now!)

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Dec
3
to Dec 5

ISA Certified Arborist® Exam Prep Course (SANDY SPRINGS, GA)

Over two and a half full day sessions, experienced instructors and certified arborists Rob Swanson and Kay Evanovich will help attendees prepare for the exam with talks covering Tree Biology, Tree Identification, Soil Science, Water Management, Tree Nutrition and Fertilization, Tree Selection, Installation and Establishment, Pruning, Tree Support and Lightning Protection, Diagnosis and Plant Disorders, Plant Health Care, Tree Assessment and Risk Management, Trees and Construction, Urban Forestry, Tree Worker Safety, and Climbing & Working in Trees.  Attendees will also learn about eligibility for the exam and taking the exam.

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Nov
22

Rescate Aereo

El entrenamiento de rescate aéreo prepara a los escaladores para los escenarios más probables en los que pueden tener que responder a una emergencia mientras trabajan en altura.

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Nov
19

[español] Category 24 Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicator Training

Category 24 Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicator Training en Espanol 

Categoría 24 Formación de aplicadores de plaguicidas para césped y plantas ornamentales

19 de noviembre

8am-3pm

Sandy Springs City Hall

1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs, Ga 30328

lonche incluydo 

$25 para miembros de GAA

$50 para el publico 

$500 patrocino de libros para el curso

UGA Extension Gwinnett está ofreciendo un taller para ayudar a preparar a aquellos que están planeando tomar el Examen de Licencia de Aplicador de Pesticidas de Georgia en la Categoría 24 Ornamental y Césped para pasarlo. El taller cubrirá la sección de normas generales en primer lugar, y luego la sección de ornamentales y césped. Este curso se recomienda para trabajadores que usan pesticidios en sus trabajos, para los que buscan tomar el examen de pesticide applicator, o para los que ya tienen su licensia y buscan renovar o revisar su conociemiento. 

La primera parte: Manual Nacional Básico para la Certificación de Aplicadores de Plaguicidas (normas generales). (General Standards Core Manual) (Duracion 3:30 Hrs).

La segunda parte: Manejo de plagas en Plantas Ornamentales y Césped CATEGORIA 24 (Ornamental and Turf Grass Pest Management). (Duracion 2:30 Hrs).

El examen en sí no se ofrecerá después de la clase. Se trata sólo de un curso de estudio. El examen se ofrece en varios colegios técnicos en todo el estado y tiene un costo de $45. La certificacion de este examen es valido en los estados de georgia, north carolina, y south carolina. 

para mas informacion sobre el examen por favor de visitar: https://www.gapestexam.com/examInfo.cfm 

 MATERIALES: Antes de la clase, se recomienda encarecidamente la compra de los siguientes libros: Applying Pesticides Correctly por $30.00 y Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management por $25.00. Ambos están disponibles en la Oficina de Extensión del Condado de Gwinnett - (efectivo, cheque o tarjeta de crédito) o puede pedirlos a través de www.gapestexam.com. Se aconseja pedirlos por lo menos 2 semanas antes del entrenamiento.

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Category 24 Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicator Training in Spanish

 November 19th, 2025

8am-3pm

Sandy Springs City Hall

1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs, Ga 30328

lunch included

$25 for GAA members

$50 for the public

$500 book sponsorship for the course

UGA Extension Gwinnett is offering a workshop to help prepare those who are planning to take the Georgia Pesticide Applicator's License Examination in Category 24 Ornamental and Turf to pass. The workshop will cover the general standards section first, and then the ornamentals and turf section. This course is recommended for workers who use pesticides in their jobs, for those looking to take the pesticide applicator exam, or for those who already have their license and are looking to renew or review their knowledge.

The first part: National Core Manual for Pesticide Applicator Certification (General Standards Core Manual) (Duration 3:30 Hrs).

The second part: Ornamental and Turf Grass Pest Management CATEGORY 24 (Duration 2:30 Hrs.).

The exam itself will not be offered after the class. This is only a study course. The exam is offered at various technical colleges throughout the state and costs $45. Certification for this exam is valid in the states of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina.

for more information about the exam please visit: https://www.gapestexam.com/examInfo.cfm

MATERIALS: Prior to class, purchase of the following books is strongly recommended: Applying Pesticides Correctly for $30.00 and Ornamental and Turfgrass Pest Management for $25.00. Both are available at the Gwinnett County Extension Office - (cash, check or credit card) or you can order them through www.gapestexam.com. It is advised to order them at least 2 weeks prior to training.


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GAA Gives back: Tree Planting Day at Elementary School
Oct
24

GAA Gives back: Tree Planting Day at Elementary School

Community Tree Planting Day at Asa G. Hilliard Elementary School

3353 Mt Olive Rd, Atlanta, GA 30344

career day: 8am-9am

Tree planting: 9am-12pm 

Friday October 24th, 2025

Join GAA and friends for a community give back day! We will join the teachers at Asa G. Hilliard Elementary school for a morning of arboriculture education. Whether you want to talk about your green collar career, or you want to help kids get shade on their playground, this event has a spot for you to come be with the community and inspire future arborists. 

If you would like to be a sponsor for this event, please reach out to Maria@georgiaabrorist.org 

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Trees & Technology Day
Sep
18

Trees & Technology Day

Join us for Trees & Technology Day—a hands-on exploration of the tools of our trade. 

You will learn about new technology in advanced tree imaging, 3d biomechanics, sonic tomography, tree injection, project management and more.

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Webinar: Invasive Insects of Concern for Trees in Georgia
Sep
9

Webinar: Invasive Insects of Concern for Trees in Georgia

In this presentation spotted lanternfly, Asian longhorned beetle, and other invasive tree insects will be highlighted.  Insect appearance, lifecycle, and damage will be covered.  The role of arborists as often the detector of invasive pests and the process of how invasive insects are confirmed in EDDMapS when people report a pest will be covered.

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Sep
8
to Sep 29

ISA Certified Arborist® Exam Virtual Review Course

Over seven sessions, experienced instructors and certified arborists Rob Swanson and Kay Evanovich will help attendees prepare for the exam with talks covering Tree Biology, Tree Identification, Soil Science, Water Management, Tree Nutrition and Fertilization, Tree Selection, Installation and Establishment, Pruning, Tree Support and Lightning Protection, Diagnosis and Plant Disorders, Plant Health Care, Tree Assessment and Risk Management, Trees and Construction, Urban Forestry, Tree Worker Safety, and Climbing & Working in Trees. Attendees will also learn about eligibility for the exam and taking the exam.

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Oak Tree Health Workshop
Sep
5

Oak Tree Health Workshop

Join representatives from Clemson University, the City of Aiken, and the South Carolina Forestry Commission to learn more about the oak species found in the Carolina Sandhills Region, their biology and growth habits, and common oak stressors and pests. 

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Summer Workshop: Preparing for the Upcoming Storm Season – Safety and Organization in Tree Care | Taller: Preparación para la próxima temporada de tormentas - Seguridad y organización
Aug
14
to Aug 15

Summer Workshop: Preparing for the Upcoming Storm Season – Safety and Organization in Tree Care | Taller: Preparación para la próxima temporada de tormentas - Seguridad y organización

Preparing for the Upcoming Storm Season – Safety and Organization in Tree Care 

Sessions geared for the production and management arborists in both Spanish and English.

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Jul
30
to Jul 31

Tree and Plant Appraisal Qualification (TPAQ)

This event will utilize both instructor-led discussions and case scenarios to illustrate concepts allowing participants to become familiar with the relevant methods and techniques used to approach plant appraisals and the ability to make reasoned judgement about the value of trees and landscape plants.

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Jul
16
to Jul 17

Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualification (WRRQ)

  • Georgia Forestry Commission (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Wildfire Risk Reduction Qualification (WRRQ), developed by Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Chapter ISA, expands the reach of the state forestry agency’s wildfire prevention messaging while equipping certified arborists with another tool in their tool box to meet client needs.

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May
20
to May 22

ISA Certified Arborist® Exam Prep Course (AUGUSTA, GA)

Over two full day sessions, experienced instructors and certified arborists Rob Swanson and Kay Evanovich will help attendees prepare for the exam with talks covering Tree Biology, Tree Identification, Soil Science, Water Management, Tree Nutrition and Fertilization, Tree Selection, Installation and Establishment, Pruning, Tree Support and Lightning Protection, Diagnosis and Plant Disorders, Plant Health Care, Tree Assessment and Risk Management, Trees and Construction, Urban Forestry, Tree Worker Safety, and Climbing & Working in Trees.  Attendees will also learn about eligibility for the exam and taking the exam.

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Curso de preparacion para el examen de arborista certificado por la ISA®  ISA Certified Arborist®  Exam Review Course in SPANISH
May
19
to May 21

Curso de preparacion para el examen de arborista certificado por la ISA® ISA Certified Arborist® Exam Review Course in SPANISH

  • 1 Galambos Way Sandy Springs, GA, 30328 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs GA 30328

19, 20, 21 de mayo, 2025

8am-4pm

Costo:

$100 - Miembros de la GAA

$175 - No miembros (incluye 1 año de membresía a GAA) 

Presentado por:  

Miguel Sarabia, CA

Durante dos sesiones de día completo, el instructor y arborista certificado Miguel Sarabia ayudará a los asistentes a prepararse para el examen con charlas que cubrirán la biología de los árboles, la identificación de los árboles, la ciencia del suelo, el manejo del agua, la nutrición y fertilización de los árboles, la selección, instalación y establecimiento de árboles, la poda, el soporte de los árboles y la protección contra rayos, el diagnóstico y los trastornos de las plantas, el cuidado de la salud de las plantas, la evaluación de los árboles y la gestión de riesgos, los árboles y la construcción, la silvicultura urbana, la seguridad de los trabajadores de los árboles y la escalada y el trabajo en los árboles. Los asistentes también aprenderán sobre la elegibilidad para el examen y sobre cómo rendirlo.

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May
14

Electrical Hazard Awareness Program (EHAP) Training

EHAP helps you meet the OSHA 1910.269 safety standard, which requires:

  • Employer-certified training
    Employers must certify that employees who work 10 feet or closer to energized conductors are trained in the special hazards involved in such work.

  • On-the-job training and verification
    Employers must verify through documented, on-the-job training and verification that these employees have the skills necessary to perform line-clearance job tasks safely.

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