Workshops | Webinars

🗓️ Date: Friday, August 28th
⏰ Time: 12:00 PM ET
🎙️ Presented by:  Tim Walsh

Description

Abstract: The 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. The session will explore the new four-level electrical arborist qualification system, updated Minimum Approach Distances (MADs), and revised language that shifts many practices from “should” to “shall.” Attendees will gain insight into OSHA alignment, consensus standard development, and practical field implications of the updated standard. Special emphasis will be placed on how these changes reflect a modern, learning-based safety philosophy—one that balances compliance with operational realities. Whether you are a utility arborist, municipal forester, safety manager, or crew leader, this session will help prepare you to adapt field practices, training programs, and safety plans in alignment with the new standard.

Speaker Bio: Tim Walsh is the Vice President of Safety and Training at The Townsend Company, LLC, where he leads efforts to advance a modern, learning-focused safety culture across a nationwide workforce. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering and Safety at the University of Massachusetts, building on master’s degrees in Ergonomics (UMass Lowell) and Urban Forestry (University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point), where he also earned his bachelor’s degree. With over 35 years of experience as a climbing arborist, business owner, and industry leader, Tim holds multiple professional credentials, including Certified Utility Safety Professional (CUSP), Certified Treecare Safety Professional (CTSP), ISA Certified Arborist, and Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist. Tim has been a voting member of the ASC Z133 committee and recently chaired two task groups for the upcoming 2026 revision. He has contributed to national safety initiatives through his past involvement with the NORA Safety Workgroup, helping drive research and innovation in high-risk industries. A committed industry volunteer, Tim serves on the Board of Directors for the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and is a Past President of the Utility Arborist Association (UAA), where he previously chaired both the Safety and Professional Development Committees. In recognition of his impact, he was honored with the UAA’s Will Nutter Silver Shield Award in 2022. He also contributes to industry knowledge as a member of the TCI Magazine Editorial Advisory Committee, where he helps shape thought leadership for the arboricultural profession.