Advanced tree felling

Here we cover the following advanced tree felling topics: tools, planning, and essential knowledge, as well as specific applications, such as leaning trees, special trees, processing a storm-felled forest and advanced cutting.

Advanced tree felling situations should only be handled by tree felling professionals with the correct knowledge, training and experience. And, as usual, be sure to follow laws and regulations in your area. If you are not confident that you can perform the work safely and efficiently, then do not proceed. Safety first – always!

Tools

Advanced felling situations require certain tools to be able to complete the task safely and according to your work plan and chosen work method. This section of the site covers: felling wedges, impact tools, mechanical winch, pulling/rigging rope, block/pulley, sling/lifting strap, pole saw, throw line with throw weight, and throw saw.

Since every felling situation is unique, it is important to evaluate which tools might be needed. Before proceeding with the felling, make sure that you and your team know how and when to use the tools presented here – and that your tools are in good working order.

Keep in mind that advanced felling situations require the proper training and experience, according to the laws and regulations in your area. Safety first – always!

Planning

Advanced tree felling situations require careful planning. This section of the site covers the following aspects of planning: inspection, including worksite inspection and Visual Tree Assessment (VTA), worksite risk assessment, the work plan, tools, communicate and prepare, execute and adjust. It includes basic, recommended steps and checklist examples to use as reference. As you gain more experience, many of the elements of planning will become second nature. Embrace planning as a natural way of working in every tree felling or tree handling situation.

The following content gives you an introduction to planning in advanced situations. The information presented here is meant as a guide only, and in no way replaces the need for proper training and certification. Make sure to adapt this content to your local requirements and regulations.

Essential knowledge for advanced tree felling

When it comes to advanced tree felling, there is no room for guesswork or wishful thinking. You have to understand the situation and know what needs to be done and how to do it safely. This section of the site covers essential knowledge, including how to measure tree height, reach and lean; selecting the correct felling tool; understanding lifting height and felling force; safe winch technique, and saw alignment.

Leaning trees

Leaning trees are a typical advanced tree felling situation. But remember: every situation is different. That’s why this section of the site covers how to fell along the lean, along the heavy lean, across the lean, against the lean, as well as how to fell around other trees.

Special trees

Every advanced felling situation is unique. So, get to know your tree. Look for clues that give you important information, particularly when deciding on the most appropriate work method. This section of the site takes a closer look at: split and crack prone trees, decayed trees, dead or dry trees, hollow trees and fire-damaged trees.

Processing of storm-felled forest

Working in a storm-felled forest is extremely hazardous. It requires deep knowledge, long experience and a lot of respect for the layers of dangers in such a chaotic environment. This section of the site takes a closer look at some of the hazards and requirements when working in a storm-felled forest, and covers applications such as: leaning trees, broken crowns, and storm felled trees that are laying down; as well as how to make a storm cut, and recommended cutting methods for trees under tension.