Description: OSHA and DOT compliance don’t have to feel complicated or disconnected from the realities of running a tree care business. This interactive workshop is designed to help business owners, managers, and supervisors simplify compliance by integrating it into everyday operations.

The session will highlight common OSHA and DOT violations in the tree care industry and explain why they occur, what inspectors look for, and how to avoid them. Participants will learn practical ways to make documentation, such as training records, safety meetings, and vehicle inspections, part of a consistent daily and weekly rhythm, rather than a last-minute scramble before an inspection.

Attendees will also explore how to use TCIA tools and resources to stay inspection-ready year-round, creating systems that are efficient, repeatable, and scalable for companies of all sizes. Through real-world examples and discussion, the session will demonstrate how compliance can support safer operations and stronger business practices.

The workshop will conclude with strategies for improving accountability and gaining employee buy-in, helping crews understand their role in compliance and safety. Participants will leave with actionable steps they can immediately apply to reduce risk and build a culture where compliance is part of how work gets done every day.

Peter Gerstenberger

Bio: Peter is TCIA’s Senior VP for Industry Expertise, and has worked for TCIA for over 40 years. Before that he was a general foreman and spray technician for a small midwestern tree company and a trainer with Davey Tree. He has served on the Z133 Standards Committee and had a role in the development of most of TCIA’s training programs during most of his tenure with TCIA. He is also the association’s resident OSHA expert, serving on advisory committees to create or revised State Plan OSHA standards for arborists in California, Virginia and Maryland.

Bob Mead

Bio: Bob has gained his knowledge firsthand as a climber and crew member and through classes at the University of Maryland, local community colleges, and industry training programs. In addition to his extensive field experience, Bob’s expertise includes complex tree removals, tree preservation, and safety. His abilities as a mechanic, welder, heavy equipment operator, and 20-year paramedic and firefighter experience have allowed him to function in many different roles within the company. Bob is responsible for overseeing general operations and sales and commercial and municipal sales and service. As a former board member and president of the Maryland Arborist Association, he chaired the yearly MAA Winter Management Seminar for 10 years. His credentials and licenses include:

ISA-certified arborist
TCIA-certified tree care safety professional (CTSP)
Electrical Hazards Awareness Program (EHAP) trainer certification
Aerial rescue trainer
Chipper safety specialist
Certified CPR and first-aid instructor and instructor trainer
Maryland tree expert license
Pesticide business license in MD, D.C., and VA
Maryland professional fertilizer applicator
Maryland-licensed pesticide applicator
Maryland Home Improvement Corporation license
Certified traffic manager
Licensed plant dealer