610711 Disclosed is a device for traversing an object, such as a tree, a utility pole or a building. The device comprises a first gripping portion (10) and a second gripping portion (10’), each pivotally and rotatable coupled at each end of a manipulatable arm (see 35a/35b figure 10). The first and second gripping portions each comprise a pair of grappling legs (see 20a & 20b, figure 1) coupled to respective grappling leg displacement means, such as hydraulic cylinders (see 31a & 31b, figure 1). The grappling leg displacement means move the corresponding grappling legs between an open and closed position for respectively releasing and securing the corresponding gripping portion to an object. A controller is also provided for controlling the manipulatable arm and respective grappling leg displacement means so as to allow the device to traverse the object. Traversing is effected by securing one of the respective gripping portions to the object while the other is pivotally and/or rotatably moved to the desired location on the object for securing thereto. One of the first or second gripping portions may be substituted for a personnel carrier. A method for carrying out work about an object, including traversing the object, is also disclosed.
