Who is it for?

Our Assisted Felling course is for chainsaw users who wish to develop their felling skills further by including the use of hand and/or tractor mounted winches when felling trees. Candidates will need to have relevant chainsaw qualifications in chainsaw maintenance, cross-cutting, and felling up to 380mm, as a minimum. It is also expected that candidates will have on-the-job experience of felling and processing trees, as well as qualifications in medium tree felling.

Those needing to use assisted felling techniques on trees 380mm to 760mm in diameter will need to have the relevant felling qualification (City and Guilds Unit 304/CS34). Likewise, if a tractor winch is to be used, the operator must be competent in the use of a tractor.

Course content

• Hazards, risks and control measures
• Emergency procedures relevant to the site
• Legislative requirements and industry good practice
• Selecting and using pulling/winching equipment
• Appropriate tools, equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Factors to consider when estimating load
• Felling directions
• Assisted felling techniques
• How to ensure sufficient security and adequate leverage for the pulling system
• Position and set up pulling equipment
• Pre-tension of the pull system
• Cutting techniques when using assisted felling operations
• Felling aids as a back-up for assisted felling
• Clear communication during assisted felling operations
• Disposal of waste safely, in line with legislation
• Environmental considerations