Becoming an Arborist with high-functioning autism-possible?

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Cruciblewrecker

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#240961 4-Oct-2018 08:03

Is it possible for me to become an Arborist even though I have high-functioning autism and can follow instructions and am very safety-consciousness and I don't mind working at heights or would my autism be a workplace health and safety liability that tree care companies don't want to risk?

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gbwelly

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#2101257 4-Oct-2018 08:14

If you were to complete a course and are qualified I don't see why not.

https://www.nzarb.org.nz/Safety++Compliance/Qualifications/NZ+Courses.html

Generally these courses would include everything necessary to perform your duties in an appropriate manner.

Coil

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#2101266 4-Oct-2018 08:35

Go for it, As long as you can exercise self control and make logical decision then you should be OK.
There are VERY dangerous toys involved so I hope you are the type that can respect and acknowledge the risks involved.

Don't ever tell yourself you can't do something because of Autism, leap at any opportunity you get.

tdgeek

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#2101275 4-Oct-2018 08:53

I agree to give it a go. Have you discussed this with your Doctor or specialist, as they will be more aware than us here, of your capability and restrictions. Safety would be my major concern, should a particular job become challenging mentally or physically and how you would manage that.

Mark

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#2101463 4-Oct-2018 12:09

Cruciblewrecker: Is it possible for me to become an Arborist even though I have high-functioning autism and can follow instructions and am very safety-consciousness and I don't mind working at heights or would my autism be a workplace health and safety liability that tree care companies don't want to risk?

If you gone thorugh and passed what ever saftey qualifications are required you should be fine! From what I see arborists work in pairs or teams to ensure safety anyway so even if you are unsure you will have others mentoring and supervising you.

Go for it and see what happens! :-)

Geektastic

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#2101612 4-Oct-2018 16:19

Generally I would think a process based, safety conscious job such as this ought to suit well depending on the individual. An obsession with following the rules ought to be a benefit!

MikeAqua

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#2101644 4-Oct-2018 17:21

Communication (sometimes non-verbal) and careful movement are safety critical aspects of the job.

It can be noisy - chainsaws, shredders etc.

If those aspect are all OK, I see no impediment. Just a matter of finding the right employer.

The people I know with autism-spectrum conditions are highly determined. If you are similarly determined I'm sure there will be no stopping you.

Mike

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Cruciblewrecker

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#2102705 6-Oct-2018 21:47

Even with the safety courses would Arborist companies view autism as too much of a H&S risk?

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gzt

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#2102725 6-Oct-2018 22:21

Why would autism spectrum be an h/s risk for arborist work?

It's a huge industry, and many different parts. There are large companies, one man bands, and everything in between that. If that's what you want to do I'm sure there's a place for you.

By the way what attracts you to this type of work profession?

Lee13

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#2102796 7-Oct-2018 07:08

Simple answer Yes you can be anything you put your mind and body to
I have high functioning autism it doesn't affect my work only struggle with relationship stuff