Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I support the Western Arborist Association?
The arborist industry is changing for the better, and to make positive changes we need your help to work together. A voice for arborists across British Columbia, liaising with WorkSafe BC to work towards improving standards for all those working in the field. Plus, you’ll have access to resources like safety program documents and discounts on gear from our partner companies.
Do I really need ITA qualifications to work as an arborist?
For many years, arborists have worked in BC with minimal or no qualifications specifically related to the arborist industry. Worksafe BC has made some significant changes to regulations for our industry recently and being able to prove to them that you are a qualified arborist is very important. You can not legally fall a tree over 15cm diameter without some sort of falling qualification which is acceptable to Worksafe. The Arborist Technician and Utility Arborist qualifications are prerequisites to taking the Falling and Bucking Endorsement which allows arborists to legally fall trees in BC.
Do I need to be qualified to fall trees if I add a rope or a mechanical advantage to assist tree falling?
Yes you need to be qualified. For any tree falling activity you must be qualified to fall trees. In British Columbia the person conducting tree falling activities must be qualified to BC Forest Council Standards. For arborists, this assessment is a 1 time written and on site assessment with a QST. The name of this qualification is the WUAA/HEBC Falling and Bucking Endorsement.
If I climb the tree and dismantle/modify the tree can I fall the stem without the falling endorsement?
Yes, you can fall a small portion of the stump from the base, but just how long it can be is up for debate. There is no loophole to gaining the Falling and Bucking Endorsement. You cannot climb up the tree a few feet and fall it with a climbing harness and spurs. You cannot climb it and take a top off and fall a tall pole. If you perform any sort of tree falling activity, regardless of having spurs on, a rope in the tree etc, you must be qualified. If there is any part of our job description in arboriculture that Worksafe BC understands and focuses in on, it is tree falling activities.
How do I study and practice for the Falling and Bucking Endorsement assessment?
This is an area where the WAA is aiming to improve by advertising for and provide training to prepare arborists for the F&B assessment. Currently, those enrolled in the F&B program are legally allowed to fall trees strictly under the supervision of those qualified to BCFCS standards. If you do not meet the entry criteria for the F&B assessment and have not enrolled with Hort Ed, you are not legally allowed to practice falling trees. There are programs available to prepare those wishing to undertake the assessment. Contact us for more information about training opportunities.
What are the entry requirements for the Falling and Bucking Assessment?
Those who have their Certificate of Qualification as a Utility Arborist or Certificate of Qualification as an Arborist Technician are eligible to apply for the “WUAA/HEBC Falling and Bucking Endorsement”.
What is the cost to challenge the Falling and Bucking Assessment?
Application fee $250 + $12.50 GST (application fee is non-refundable & non-transferable) *Approved applications are valid for 3 months.
Examination Fee $1,750 + $87.50 GST
Cost of travel for candidate to travel to QST or QST’s travel expenses to travel to the candidate.
What happens if I fail the Falling and Bucking Assessment?
If a candidate fails the written or field examination, the candidate is responsible for any cost of mentoring with a QST required before scheduling another attempt and is required to pay an additional application fee, examination fee, and travel expenses for the candidate or QST.
Where can I find Resources for studying?
WAA Members have access to various study materials through our member-only page.
