ASTM F2123-23

Standard Practice for Treestand Instructions

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This practice is provided to develop and maintain uniformity in practices for instructions for treestands, climbing sticks (continuous and sectional), tripods, and towers, particularly with regard to quality assurance and safety.  
5.2 It is emphasized that the use of these practices will not alter the validity of data determined with specific tests related to other standards.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice provides guidance for providing user instructions for treestands.  
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Oct-2023
• ICS: 97.220.40 - Outdoor and water sports equipment
• Technical Committee: F08 - Sports Equipment, Playing Surfaces, and Facilities
• Drafting Committee: F08.18 - Treestands

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F2123-21 - Standard Practice for Treestand Instructions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM F3249-24 - Standard Specification for Treestands, Climbing Sticks, and Tripod or Tower Stands
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Referred By: ASTM F3249-20 - Standard Specification for Treestands, Climbing Sticks, and Tripod or Tower Stands
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Referred By: ASTM F2275-21 - Standard Practice for Treestand Manufacturer Quality Assurance Program
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023

Overview

ASTM F2123-23: Standard Practice for Treestand Instructions is an international standard developed by ASTM International. This standard outlines best practices for developing user instructions for treestands, climbing sticks (continuous and sectional), tripods, and towers. The main focus of ASTM F2123-23 is to ensure quality, uniformity, and, most importantly, safety in the instructions that accompany these elevated hunting and observation platforms. The practice provides detailed guidance on the content, format, and delivery of both written and video instructions, making it a fundamental resource for manufacturers, testing bodies, and regulatory agencies in the outdoor equipment industry.

Key Topics

ASTM F2123-23 covers a comprehensive range of topics related to treestand safety and instruction development:

• Content Selection: Detailed requirements for basic safety messages, proper installation, and operation practices for various treestand types (climbing, fixed, ladder, tripod, and tower stands).
• Safety Instruction Topics: Mandates inclusion of critical warnings related to fall hazards, use of full body harnesses, environmental conditions, user health considerations, and equipment inspection.
• Written and Video Instructions: Specifies that both written and digital media (such as DVDs or equivalent) must include detailed safety warnings and usage procedures for all models.
• Product-Specific Guidance: Requirements for device-specific instructions, including details on parts, assembly, care, and limitations.
• Fall Arrest System (FAS): Emphasizes correct use, adjustment, and limitations of safety harnesses and suspension relief devices.
• Inspection and Maintenance: Outlines necessary periodic checks, maintenance requirements, and storage recommendations to maintain equipment safety and longevity.
• User Responsibilities: Places the onus on users to understand all instructions, communicate hunting locations, and practice safe usage at ground level before elevated use.

Applications

ASTM F2123-23 is critical for stakeholders involved in the design, manufacture, certification, distribution, and use of treestands and related devices. Common applications include:

• Manufacturers: Ensuring all products are accompanied by comprehensive, standardized instructions and safety warnings for domestic and international markets, reducing liability, and improving user safety.
• Testing Laboratories: Using the practice as a benchmark for evaluating the adequacy of treestand instructions as part of certification programs.
• Regulatory Authorities: Referencing the standard when assessing regulatory compliance for treestands, climbing sticks, and elevated hunting platforms.
• Retailers and Distributors: Providing compliant safety documentation with all treestand products as required by ASTM F2123-23.
• End Users (Hunters, Wildlife Observers): Gaining access to clear, effective instructions that promote safer installation, operation, and maintenance of treestands and related products.

Related Standards

ASTM F2123-23 references several key documents to ensure consistency with broader safety protocols:

• ASTM F2337: Test Method for Treestand Fall Arrest System - outlines testing procedures for evaluating the performance of fall arrest harnesses used with treestands.
• ASTM F3249: Specification for Treestands, Climbing Sticks, and Tripod or Tower Stands - covers product specifications for design, assembly, and safety features.
• Globally Recognized Principles: Developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization per WTO TBT Committee, ensuring global applicability and acceptance.

Practical Value

Adopting ASTM F2123-23 helps manufacturers and users reduce risks of injury or fatality associated with treestand use by prescribing clear, uniform instruction standards. Comprehensive safety messages, step-by-step procedures, and consistent maintenance guidance ensure treestand users are well-informed about potential hazards and best practices, thereby supporting a safer outdoor experience.

Keywords: ASTM F2123-23, treestand instructions, climbing sticks, tripod stands, tower stands, user safety, fall arrest system, hunting safety standard, equipment maintenance, outdoor gear safety, ASTM treestand standard.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: F2123 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Practice for
Treestand Instructions
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2123; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 3.2.1 backbar or V-bar, n—the adjustable component of a
climbing treestand or handclimber that engages the tree to
1.1 This practice provides guidance for providing user
provide support. The backbar may be rigid or flexible.
instructions for treestands.
3.2.2 climbing stick, n—a device to assist climbing a tree
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
primarily to a fixed position treestand. A structure that is
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
secured to the tree and allows the user to support his weight
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and climb to the desired height on the tree.
and are not considered standard.
3.2.3 climbing treestand, n—a treestand that provides both
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
the means to ascend the tree, and allow the user to remain at a
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
desired elevation.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.2.4 handclimber, or climbing aid, n—a device to assist
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
climbing with a climbing treestand. A structure that allows the
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
user to support his weight when lifting a climbing treestand
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
with his legs.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.2.5 ladder treestand, n—a treestand that consists of a
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
ladder with an attached platform and is secured to the tree at
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
the elevation where the platform is located.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.2.5.1 Discussion—The ladder treestand may be secured to
the tree at other locations and has steps that are used to reach
2. Referenced Documents
the platform or hunting position.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.2.6 non-climbing, fixed position or hang-on treestand,
F2337 Test Method for Treestand Fall Arrest System
n—a treestand that is secured to the tree at the elevation where
F3249 Specification for Treestands, Climbing Sticks, and
it is used.
Tripod or Tower Stands
3.2.6.1 Discussion—The user usually ascends the tree by
some means and then lifts the treestand to the desired position
3. Terminology
and secures it for use.
3.1 The terminology and definitions in the referenced docu-
3.2.7 platform, n—the horizontal structural area of a tree-
ments are applicable to this practice.
stand on which the user stands or places his feet, or both.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.8 treestand, n—a device designed to be affixed to a tree
or its branches so as to permit an individual to sit or stand
thereon for the purpose of attaining an elevated position from
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F08 on Sports
which to observe, photograph or hunt.
Equipment, Playing Surfaces, and Facilities and is the direct responsibility of
Subcommittee F08.18 on Treestands.
3.2.9 tripod or tower stand, n—a tripod or tower stand (free
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2023. Published November 2023. Originally
standing platform) is constructed to be self-supporting and is
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2021 as F2123 – 21. DOI:
not designed to be secured to a tree.
10.1520/F2123-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
3.2.10 suspension relief device, n—a device to allow relief
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
of a person’s weight on the lower extremities if suspended in a
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. harness.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2123 − 23
3.2.10.1 Discussion—The device is to help maintain circu- no longer allowed and shall never be used. When using,
lation in the legs and help prevent suspension trauma (blood installing, or removing a treestand, if you are not wearing a full
pooling). body harness properly attached to the tree that is protecting you
from a fall, do not leave the ground.
4. Summary of Practice
6.3.1.7 Read and understand all of the manufacturer’s Warn-
ings and Instructions and use all safety devices provided by the
4.1 This practice provides minimum guidelines for instruc-
manufacturer. Contact the manufacturer for any questions.
tions for treestands, climbing sticks (continuous and sectional),
Failure to do so could result in injury or death.
tripods, and towers, particularly for quality assurance and
6.3.1.8 Never exceed the total weight limit of the treestand,
adequacy of safety.
tripod, or tower.
5. Significance and Use 6.3.1.9 Never use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or
tower during inclement weather such as rain, lightning, wind-
5.1 This practice is provided to develop and maintain
storms or icy conditions and end your hunt and return to the
uniformity in practices for instructions for treestands, climbing
ground if inclement conditions arise.
sticks (continuous and sectional), tripods, and towers, particu-
6.3.1.10 Never use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or
larly with regard to quality assurance and safety.
tower while using drugs (even prescription drugs) or alcohol.
5.2 It is emphasized that the use of these practices will not
6.3.1.11 Never use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or
alter the validity of data determined with specific tests related
tower while feeling ill, nauseous or dizzy, or if you have a prior
to other standards.
medical condition that could cause a problem, that is, heart
condition, joints that lock-up, spinal fusions, etc., or if you are
6. Procedure
not well rested.
6.1 It is recommended that manufacturers follow the meth-
6.3.1.12 Never use, install, or remove a treestand on a dead,
ods of developing instructions so described herein. When
leaning, diseased or loose barked tree, or a utility pole.
unusual or special conditions require instructions or informa-
6.3.1.13 Never rely on a tree branch for support.
tion not covered herein, the manufacturer shall be responsible
6.3.1.14 Never jump or bounce on a treestand to seat it to
for their development to assure adequate information for the
the tree.
user.
6.3.1.15 Pull up a bow, backpack, or firearm or other
equipment only after being secure in the treestand and a firearm
6.2 All user instructions shall be in English, and included
must be pulled up with it unloaded, chamber open, and muzzle
with each unit.
down.
6.2.1 In addition to model specific written instructions,
Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or other digital media equivalent 6.3.1.16 Always inform someone of the hunting location,
where the treestand, tripod, or tower will be located and the
shall provide non-model specific video instructions and safety
expected duration of the hunt.
warnings with each unit treestand to include ladder treestands,
non-climbing (fixed position or hang-on) treestands, climbing 6.3.1.17 A signal device such as a mobile phone, radio,
sticks (continuous and sectional), climbing treestands, tripods, whistle, signal flare or personal locator device (PLD) must be
and towers and must fully address the topics stated in 6.3 – 6.6. on your person and readily available at all times.
6.2.2 Video instructions for harnesses that are separately
6.3.1.18 Never leave a treestand in a tree for more than two
furnished for a treestand (after market) in accordance with Test weeks since weather or animals could cause damage. Tree
Method F2337 shall provide Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or
growth can also stress and damage straps and buckles that may
other digital media equivalent with each unit harness which
not be visible or obvious to the ordinary eye.
include the same topics/scenes as treestands stated in 6.2.1.
6.3.1.19 Inspect the treestand, tripod, or tower and all safety
devices each time before use and do not store a treestand
6.3 Selection of Content:
outdoors.
6.3.1 Initial, basic safety topics/scenes for written and video
6.3.1.20 Never modify your treestand, tripod, or tower in
instructions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
any way by making repairs, replacing parts, or altering it
6.3.1.1 General treestand, tripod, and tower safety topics/
except if explicitly authorized in writing by the manufacturer.
scenes.
6.3.1.21 Practice installing, adjusting, removing, and using
6.3.1.2 The manufacturer’s name and address.
your treestand at ground level prior to using it at elevated
6.3.1.3 The unit model identification.
positions.
6.3.1.4 The unit weight limit.
6.3.1.22 Instructions (written and video) shall be kept in a
6.3.1.5 When hunting from, installing, or removing a
safe place and reviewed at least annually. It is the responsibility
treestand, tripod, or tower, falls can occur any time after
of the treestand, tripod, or tower owner to furnish the complete
leaving the ground causing injury or death.
instructions to any person who borrows or purchases the
6.3.1.6 When using, installing, or removing a treestand,
treestand, tripod, or tower.
always wear a fall arrest system (FAS) comprising a full body
6.3.2 Climbing Treestands Topics/Scenes:
harness at all times after leaving the ground. You must stay
connected at all times after leaving the ground while using 6.3.2.1 The initial angle of the platform/climber at ground
climbing treestands, and while using, installing, or removing level must allow for the decrease in tree diameter while
hang-on treestands. Single safety belts and chest harnesses are ascending by tilting slightly upward.
F2123 − 23
6.3.2.2 For two-piece climbing treestands the tether con- tripods and tower stands. FAS/FBH designed for treestands
necting the top and the platform must be secure and at the require that the tether be anchored/attached to the tree. Never
length recommended by the manufacturer. attach a FAS/FBH to a tripod or tower stand or any part of its
6.3.2.3 Platform level adjustments shall not be made any- structure as this could lead to an unsafe condition. Failure to
follow this warning could result in serious injury or death!
where except at ground level (except for those special cases of
products designed and intended to be safely adjusted in
6.3.5.3 When installing, taking down or moving a tripod or
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions). tower stand you must strictly follow the manufacturer’s in-
6.3.2.4 While climbing, adjustments to the harness attach- structions to determine the appropriate number of people
ment to the tree (tether/tree belt) shall be frequent and required to perform these tasks (at least 3 people or more).
coordinated with treestand movement to maintain the least
6.3.5.4 Prior to setting up your tripod or tower stand inspect
amount of slack in the tether that will allow for climbing.
the ground surface area. The ground must be firm, level and
6.3.2.5 Familiarize yourself with the use of climbers by free of any debris. Soft or sloping ground and debris can cause
practicing at ground level before using in a hunting environ-
the platform to become unstable and lead to unsafe conditions
ment. such as tilting, shifting or tipping. Never attempt to climb a
6.3.3 Non-climbing (Fixed or Hang-on) Treestands: tripod or tower stand that is leaning, unstable or slanted.
6.3.3.1 The use of a lineman’s/climbing belt is required 6.3.5.5 Never erect a tripod or tower stand near overhead
when installing and removing a hang-on treestand to stabilize
electrical power lines or buried utilities, or both, that can cause
the user with the tree. electrocution, explosion, or fire, or a combination thereof. You
must always contact appropriate authorities prior to installing
6.3.3.2 Correct tightening and adjustment of chains, cables,
straps, etc. are critical to stable hang-on treestand installation. any structure on or near right of ways or underground utilities.
All treestand contact points must be in contact with the tree 6.3.5.6 For towers and tripods designed for two or more
before you step onto your stand.
people, never allow more than one person at a time to ascend
6.3.3.3 Practice the attachment and removal of hang-on or descend the ladder. Be certain first person is fully off the
treestands at ground level before using in a hunting environ- ladder/entry platform and positioned safely on tower platform
ment. or ground before second person ascends or descends ladder.
6.3.3.4 Use a haul line to raise and lower the treestand.
6.3.5.7 Always maintain three (3) points of contact when
Never climb with anything on your back.
climbing a tripod or tower stand. Proper three-point contact
6.3.3.5 Climbing aids (stick ladders, sectional ladders,
means having either two feet with one hand or one foot with
steps, etc.) must extend above the platform to allow the user to two hands on the step portion of the ladder at all times. Never
step down onto the platform. Never step up to your stand from lean backward when climbing as this could cause the tripod or
a climbing aid. tower stand to become unstable.
6.3.4 Ladder Treestand Topics/Scenes: 6.3.5.8 Tripod and tower stands must be properly secured or
6.3.4.1 Use at least three (3) people to install or remove/take anchored, or both, to the ground according to manufacturer’s
down a ladder treestand. instructions. Avoid using tripod and tower stands during windy
6.3.4.2 The criss-cross straps and stabilization devices must conditions whi
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F2123 − 21 F2123 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Practice for
Treestand Instructions
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2123; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This practice provides guidance for providing user instructions for treestands.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
F2337 Test Method for Treestand Fall Arrest System
F3249 Specification for Treestands, Climbing Sticks, and Tripod or Tower Stands
3. Terminology
3.1 The terminology and definitions in the referenced documents are applicable to this practice.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 backbar or V-bar, n—the adjustable component of a climbing treestand or handclimber that engages the tree to provide
support. The backbar may be rigid or flexible.
3.2.2 climbing stick, n—a device to assist climbing a tree primarily to a fixed position treestand. A structure that is secured to the
tree and allows the user to support his weight and climb to the desired height on the tree.
3.2.3 climbing treestand, n—a treestand that provides both the means to ascend the tree, and allow the user to remain at a desired
elevation.
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F08 on Sports Equipment, Playing Surfaces, and Facilities and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
F08.18 on Treestands.
Current edition approved May 1, 2021Nov. 1, 2023. Published June 2021November 2023. Originally approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 20192021 as
F2123 – 19.F2123 – 21. DOI: 10.1520/F2123-21.10.1520/F2123-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2123 − 23
3.2.4 handclimber, or climbing aid, n—a device to assist climbing with a climbing treestand. A structure that allows the user to
support his weight when lifting a climbing treestand with his legs.
3.2.5 ladder treestand, n—a treestand that consists of a ladder with an attached platform and is secured to the tree at the elevation
where the platform is located.
3.2.5.1 Discussion—
The ladder treestand may be secured to the tree at other locations and has steps that are used to reach the platform or hunting
position.
3.2.6 non-climbing, fixed position or hang-on treestand, n—a treestand that is secured to the tree at the elevation where it is used.
3.2.6.1 Discussion—
The user usually ascends the tree by some means and then lifts the treestand to the desired position and secures it for use.
3.2.7 platform, n—the horizontal structural area of a treestand on which the user stands or places his feet, or both.
3.2.8 treestand, n—a device designed to be affixed to a tree or its branches so as to permit an individual to sit or stand thereon
for the purpose of attaining an elevated position from which to observe, photograph or hunt.
3.2.9 tripod or tower stand, n—a tripod or tower stand (free standing platform) is constructed to be self-supporting and is not
designed to be secured to a tree.
3.2.10 suspension relief device, n—a device to allow relief of a person’s weight on the lower extremities if suspended in a harness.
3.2.10.1 Discussion—
The device is to help maintain circulation in the legs and help prevent suspension trauma (blood pooling).
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice provides minimum guidelines for instructions for treestands, climbing sticks (continuous and sectional), tripods,
and towers, particularly for quality assurance and adequacy of safety.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This practice is provided to develop and maintain uniformity in practices for instructions for treestands, climbing sticks
(continuous and sectional), tripods, and towers, particularly with regard to quality assurance and safety.
5.2 It is emphasized that the use of these practices will not alter the validity of data determined with specific tests related to other
standards.
6. Procedure
6.1 It is recommended that manufacturers follow the methods of developing instructions so described herein. When unusual or
special conditions require instructions or information not covered herein, the manufacturer shall be responsible for their
development to assure adequate information for the user.
6.2 All user instructions shall be in English, and included with each unit.
6.2.1 In addition to model specific written instructions, Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or other digital media equivalent shall
provide non-model specific video instructions and safety warnings with each unit treestand to include ladder treestands,
non-climbing (fixed position or hang-on) treestands, climbing sticks (continuous and sectional), climbing treestands, tripods, and
towers and must fully address the topics stated in 6.3 – 6.6.
6.2.2 Video instructions for harnesses that are separately furnished for a treestand (after market) in accordance with Test Method
F2337 shall provide Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or other digital media equivalent with each unit harness which include the same
topics/scenes as treestands stated in 6.2.1.
F2123 − 23
6.3 Selection of Content:
6.3.1 Initial, basic safety topics/scenes for written and video instructions shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
6.3.1.1 General treestand, tripod, and tower safety topics/scenes.
6.3.1.2 The manufacturer’s name and address.
6.3.1.3 The unit model identification.
6.3.1.4 The unit weight limit.
6.3.1.5 When hunting from from, installing, or removing a treestand, tripod, or tower, falls can occur any time after leaving the
ground causing injury or death.
6.3.1.6 When using using, installing, or removing a treestand, always wear a fall arrest system (FAS) comprising a full body
harness at all times after leaving the ground. You must stay connected at all times after leaving the ground while using climbing
and treestands, and while using, installing, or removing hang-on treestands. Single safety belts and chest harnesses are no longer
allowed and shall never be used. When using using, installing, or removing a treestand, if you are not wearing a full body harness
properly attached to the tree that is protecting you from a fall, do not leave the ground.
6.3.1.7 Read and understand all of the manufacturer’s Warnings and Instructions and use all safety devices provided by the
manufacturer. Contact the manufacturer for any questions. Failure to do so could result in injury or death.
6.3.1.8 Never exceed the total weight limit of the treestand, tripod, or tower.
6.3.1.9 Never use use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or tower during inclement weather such as rain, lightning, windstorms
or icy conditions and end your hunt and return to the ground if inclement conditions arise.
6.3.1.10 Never use use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or tower while using drugs (even prescription drugs) or alcohol.
6.3.1.11 Never use use, install, or remove a treestand, tripod, or tower while feeling ill, nauseous or dizzy, or if you have a prior
medical condition that could cause a problem, that is, heart condition, joints that lock-up, spinal fusions, etc., or if you are not well
rested.
6.3.1.12 Never use use, install, or remove a treestand on a dead, leaning, diseased or loose barked tree, or a utility pole.
6.3.1.13 Never rely on a tree branch for support.
6.3.1.14 Never jump or bounce on a treestand to seat it to the tree.
6.3.1.15 Pull up a bow, backpack, or firearm or other equipment only after being secure in the treestand and a firearm must be
pulled up with it unloaded, chamber open, and muzzle down.
6.3.1.16 Always inform someone of the hunting location, where the treestand, tripod, or tower will be located and the expected
duration of the hunt.
6.3.1.17 A signal device such as a mobile phone, radio, whistle, signal flare or personal locator device (PLD) must be on your
person and readily available at all times.
6.3.1.18 Never leave a treestand in a tree for more than two weeks since weather or animals could cause damage. Tree growth
can also stress and damage straps and buckles that may not be visible or obvious to the ordinary eye.
6.3.1.19 Inspect the treestand, tripod, or tower and all safety devices each time before use and do not store a treestand outdoors.
6.3.1.20 Never modify your treestand, tripod, or tower in any way by making repairs, replacing parts, or altering it except if
explicitly authorized in writing by the manufacturer.
F2123 − 23
6.3.1.21 Practice installing, adjusting adjusting, removing, and using your treestand at ground level prior to using it at elevated
positions.
6.3.1.22 Instructions (written and video) shall be kept in a safe place and reviewed at least annually. It is the responsibility of the
treestand, tripod, or tower owner to furnish the complete instructions to any person who borrows or purchases the treestand, tripod,
or tower.
6.3.2 Climbing Treestands Topics/Scenes:
6.3.2.1 The initial angle of the platform/climber at ground level must allow for the decrease in tree diameter while ascending by
tilting slightly upward.
6.3.2.2 For two-piece climbing treestands the tether connecting the top and the platform must be secure and at the length
recommended by the manufacturer.
6.3.2.3 Platform level adjustments shall not be made anywhere except at ground level (except for those special cases of products
designed and intended to be safely adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions).
6.3.2.4 While climbing, adjustments to the harness attachment to the tree (tether/tree belt) shall be frequent and coordinated with
treestand movement to maintain the least amount of slack in the tether that will allow for climbing.
6.3.2.5 Familiarize yourself with the use of climbers by practicing at ground level before using in a hunting environment.
6.3.3 Non-climbing (Fixed or Hang-on) Treestands:
6.3.3.1 The use of a lineman’s/climbing belt is required when installing and removing a hang-on treestand to stabilize the user with
the tree.
6.3.3.2 Correct tightening and adjustment of chains, cables, straps, etc. are critical to stable hang-on treestand installation. All
treestand contact points must be in contact with the tree before you step onto your stand.
6.3.3.3 Practice the attachment and removal of hang-on treestands at ground level before using in a hunting environment.
6.3.3.4 Use a haul line to raise and lower the treestand. Never climb with anything on your back.
6.3.3.5 Climbing aids (stick ladders, sectional ladders, steps, etc.) must extend above the platform to allow the user to step down
onto the platform. Never step up to your stand from a climbing aid.
6.3.4 Ladder Treestand Topics/Scenes:
6.3.4.1 Use at least three (3) people to install or takeremove/take down a ladder treestand.
6.3.4.2 The criss-cross straps and stabilization devices must be attached before climbing to the platform.
6.3.4.3 When installing a ladder stand, always bounce on the first rung to set the ladder into the ground according to
manufacturer’s instructions before proceeding to climb any higher.
6.3.4.4 Check every ladder section connection every time you use the stand before you leave the ground. If ladder sections are
separating, do not use the stand.
6.3.4.5 Check the ground under the stand to make sure it is firm and level. Sloping ground or uneven surface (one side on a rock)
can cause your ladder to tilt or shift off the tree as you climb.
6.3.4.6 Maintain three (3) points of contact when climbing a ladder treestand.
6.3.4.7 Always lean forward as you climb and attach your harness to the tree before securing the platform to the tree and stepping
onto the platform.
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6.3.5 Tripod and Tower Stand Topics/Scenes:
6.3.5.1 When using a tripod or tower stand the risk of a fall can occur anytime after leaving the ground. Falling from a tripod or
tower stand can result in serious injury or death.
6.3.5.2 A fall arrest system/full body harness (FAS/FBH) that meets industry standards for treestands is not included with tripods
and tower stands. FAS/FBH designed for treestands require that the tether be anchored/attached to the tree. Never attach a
FAS/FBH to a tripod or tower stand or any part of its structure as this could lead to an unsafe condition. Failure to follow this
warning could result in serious injury or death!
6.3.5.3 When installing, taking down or moving a tripod or tower stand you must strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions
to determine the appropriate number of people required to perform these tasks (at least 3 people or more).
6.3.5.4 Prior to setting up your tripod or tower stand inspect the ground surface area. The ground must be firm, level and free of
any debris. Soft or sloping ground and debris can cause the
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