Some Of The Professional Tree Felling Methods And Tools We Use In Glasgow

Tree felling, the process of cutting down trees, is a fundamental activity in forestry management and land clearing. This task requires precision, expertise, and a deep understanding of safety procedures to ensure it is done efficiently and with minimal risk to people and property. The goal of tree felling is not only to remove a tree but also to control the direction and manner in which it falls. This is achieved through various techniques and the use of specialised tools, making the process both an art and a science. Proper tree felling practices promote forest health, enable land reclamation, and reduce the potential for property damage or personal injury.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Safety and environmental considerations are paramount in the process of tree felling. The nature of the activity inherently involves risks, not only to the individuals carrying out the work but also to the surrounding environment. Implementing rigorous safety protocols is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. These protocols include proper training in the use of equipment, wearing personal protective gear, and establishing clear areas where the tree will fall and where bystanders should stand. Environmental considerations are equally important. The decision to fell a tree should take into account the impact on local wildlife, the potential for soil erosion, and the overall health of the forest or surrounding vegetation. Sustainable tree felling practices aim to minimize negative environmental impacts, ensuring that ecosystems remain balanced and healthy. This approach underscores the responsibility of those involved in tree felling to protect both human life and the natural environment.

Preparation Before Felling

Assessing Tree Health and Surrounding Area

Before proceeding with the felling of a tree, it's crucial to conduct a thorough assessment of the tree’s health and the surrounding area. This step is imperative for two main reasons: ensuring the safety of the operation and predicting the direction of the tree's fall with higher accuracy.

To assess the tree's health, look for signs of disease, decay, or structural weakness. These indicators can include fungal growth at the base, dead or hanging branches, cracks in the trunk, or a noticeable lean. A tree in poor health may not fall as predicted, posing a risk to the operator and nearby structures.

Additionally, evaluating the surrounding area is essential to identify potential hazards or obstacles. Check for nearby trees, structures, overhead wires, or other elements that could interfere with the tree's path as it falls. This assessment also involves considering the tree's height and the natural lean to determine the safest and most effective direction for felling.

By carefully assessing both the tree's health and its surroundings, operators can plan the felling process to maximise safety and efficiency, ensuring a controlled and predictable fall.

Necessary tools and equipment

The success of a tree-felling operation heavily depends on the use of appropriate tools and equipment. Ensuring that all necessary gear is on hand and in good working condition is critical for both safety and efficiency. Here is a list of essential tools and equipment for tree felling:

Chainsaw: This is the primary tool used for cutting down trees. It's important to select a chainsaw that is powerful enough for the tree size and is equipped with a sharp, well-maintained chain.

Protective Gear: Safety should always be the top priority. Essential protective gear includes a hard hat, safety goggles or a face shield, hearing protection, steel-toed boots, gloves, and chainsaw chaps to protect the legs.

Felling Wedges: These are used to help control the direction of the tree’s fall. Felling wedges are driven into the felling cut to prevent the tree from settling back onto the chainsaw.

Axe or Hatchet: An axe or hatchet can be used for removing smaller branches, creating notches for felling wedges, or clearing brush around the base of the tree.

Rope: Ropes are crucial for directional felling, allowing the operator and assistants to guide the direction of the tree’s fall safely. It’s important to use ropes with sufficient strength and length for the task.

First Aid Kit: Always have a first aid kit readily available in case of accidents or injuries. The kit should include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and splints.

Measuring Tape: This tool is essential for planning where the tree will fall. Accurately measuring the height and diameter of the tree can help determine the best felling direction and ensure there are adequate clearance and safety margins.

Before commencing any tree felling activities, it's essential to inspect all tools and equipment to ensure they are in good working order. Proper maintenance and preparation can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve the overall efficiency of the felling operation.

Legal requirements and permissions in the UK

In the United Kingdom, the felling of trees is regulated to protect the environment and encourage sustainable forestry management. Before any tree felling activities can be undertaken, it is often necessary to obtain a felling licence from the Forestry Commission or relevant local authority. This license specifies the conditions under which trees may be felled, including the type, size, and number of trees. Additionally, there are exceptions and exemptions, such as felling trees in gardens, parks, or for public safety reasons, but these still often require prior notification or consent.

It's also crucial to consider the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which protects certain habitats and species. Before felling, an ecological survey may be necessary to ensure that the proposed activity does not harm protected wildlife or their habitats. In areas of special scientific interest (SSSIs) or national parks, additional restrictions may apply, and further permissions may be needed from Natural England, Scottish Natural Heritage, or the Countryside Council for Wales, depending on the location of the felling.

Violating these regulations can result in substantial fines or legal action, emphasising the importance of thorough planning and compliance with all legal requirements before proceeding with any tree-felling operations in the UK.

Tree Felling Techniques

A. Directional Felling

Understanding the hinge and its role

Understanding the hinge and its role is fundamental in the process of directional felling and ensuring the safety and precision of the tree felling operation. The hinge is the strip of wood left uncut between the face cut or notch and the back cut of a tree. This critical component controls the direction of the tree's fall and helps prevent the tree from kicking back towards the operator.

The thickness and angle of the hinge are crucial factors that influence the accuracy of the tree's fall. Typically, the hinge should be about 1/10th the diameter of the tree and cut at an angle that guides the tree in the desired direction. The integrity of the hinge during the cutting process is paramount; if it is cut too thin, the tree may fall prematurely or in an uncontrollable manner.

Furthermore, the hinge acts as a safety mechanism, slowing the tree's descent and allowing the operator to move to a safe position. Proper creation and management of the hinge are essential skills for any tree feller, as it not only ensures the tree falls where intended but also significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

Cutting techniques for controlling direction

Cutting techniques play a pivotal role in controlling the direction in which a tree falls during felling operations. Mastery of these techniques ensures precision, safety, and efficiency. The following are key methods used by arborists and tree fellers:

1. Notch Cut or Face Cut: This cut determines the direction in which the tree will fall and comprises one of the initial steps in the tree felling process. The notch cut is made on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall. It involves two cuts; the first is made horizontally into the tree to a depth of about one-quarter of its diameter. The second cut meets the end of the first at an angle, creating a wedge-shaped notch. This space allows the tree to lean and fall in the specified direction when the backcut is made.

2. The Back Cut: Positioned opposite to the notch cut, the back cut releases the stress on the tree, allowing it to fall. This cut is made at a slightly higher level than the horizontal cut of the notch to ensure the tree falls in the direction of the notch. The back cut should not intersect with the point of the notch cut on the inside of the tree to preserve a hinge. This hinge of uncut wood guides the tree’s fall and helps control its descent.

3. The Humboldt Cut: An alternative to the traditional notch cut, the Humboldt cut is particularly useful when the aim is to preserve as much wood as possible or when dealing with larger trees. This technique involves making a horizontal cut and then an upwardly angled cut to remove a notch from the underside of the tree. The Humboldt cut creates a higher stump but provides better leverage for directing the tree's fall.

4. Using Wedges or Jacks: In cases where additional force is needed to guide the tree in the desired direction, wedges or mechanical jacks can be inserted into the back cut. Once the back cut is partially completed, wedges can be driven into the cut to gently push the tree towards the notch. This technique is highly effective in controlling the fall of the tree, especially in complex situations where natural lean or wind may affect the felling direction.

Properly executing these cutting techniques requires experience, precision, and a deep understanding of tree physics and mechanics. Additionally, always ensuring the safety of the feller and surrounding area remains paramount throughout the tree felling process.

B. Wedge Felling

When and how to use wedges

Wedges play an indispensable role in tree felling operations, particularly when the tree does not have a natural lean towards the desired direction of fall or when wind conditions may influence the tree's fall away from the intended direction. Used correctly, wedges can ensure the tree falls safely and accurately as planned. Here's when and how to use them:

When to Use Wedges:

Lack of Natural Lean: When a tree stands perfectly upright or leans away from the desired direction of fall, wedges can help to create an artificial lean towards the intended direction.

Adverse Wind Conditions: Even a slight wind can alter the direction of a tree’s fall. Wedges can counteract the effect of wind, ensuring the tree falls in the right direction.

Large Trees: For large trees, particularly those with a significant amount of mass or height, wedges provide additional control over the direction of the fall.

How to Use Wedges:

Prepare the Notch Cut: Begin by making the notch cut on the side of the tree facing the direction you want the tree to fall. This should be done as described previously, setting the stage for the application of the wedge.

Make the Back Cut: Start the back cut slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch to ensure a hinge is formed. This hinge will control the tree's fall direction.

Insert the Wedge: When the back cut is deep enough but before it meets the point of the notch cut, stop cutting. Insert a wedge into the back cut with the flat side facing the feller. Use a hammer or a similar tool to drive the wedge into the cut. The purpose of the wedge is not to complete the cut but to apply a force that steers the tree in the desired direction.

Complete the Felling: Continue to drive the wedge deeper as necessary while monitoring the tree's movement. The tree should begin to lean towards the notch. If needed, additional cuts may be made to assist the fall, but care should be taken to ensure the tree's controlled descent.

Safety Precautions: Always be prepared to retreat to a safe distance as soon as the tree begins to fall. Make sure your escape path is clear of obstacles.

Using wedges effectively requires practice and a clear understanding of the physics involved in tree felling. Safety should always be the paramount concern, and it is advisable to work under the guidance of an experienced feller when learning how to use wedges in tree felling operations.

Safety considerations

Ensuring safety during tree-felling operations is paramount. The process can be hazardous, not only to the person felling the tree but also to bystanders and surrounding property. Here are several critical safety considerations to observe:

Wear Proper Protective Equipment: Always use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and steel-toed boots.

Check the Surroundings: Before starting the cut, thoroughly assess the surrounding area for obstacles, structures, or power lines that could be impacted by the tree's fall. Ensure that the area within a two-tree length radius around the tree is clear.

Plan an Escape Route: Prior to making the first cut, plan and clear at least two escape routes away from the tree’s expected fall direction. This ensures you have a safe path to retreat if the tree falls unpredictably.

Continuous Monitoring: Keep a constant eye on the tree and the top branches as you cut. Be prepared to stop and reevaluate if you notice any movement suggesting an imminent fall.

Communication: If working in a team, maintain clear and continuous communication. Use signals or radios to alert everyone involved about the tree's movement and when it begins to fall.

Training and Experience: Tree felling should only be performed by those with adequate training and experience. The dynamics of felling a tree are complex, and understanding the technical aspects of cuts, as well as being able to read a tree's structure and the environment, is crucial for safety.

Weather Conditions: Avoid tree felling in adverse weather conditions, such as high winds, rain, or lightning storms, which can unpredictably affect the tree's fall and increase the danger of the operation.

Use of Tools and Equipment: Ensure that all tools and equipment, including chainsaws, are in good working condition. Familiarize yourself with the operation and safety features of the equipment before use.

Emergency Plan: Always have a first aid kit on hand and a plan for emergency medical assistance if an accident occurs. Knowing the location of the nearest hospital and having a means of communication can be life-saving in case of serious injuries.

Adhering to these safety guidelines minimizes the risks associated with tree felling and ensures that the operation proceeds as safely as possible.

C. Section Felling

Suitable for constrained spaces

In constrained or limited spaces where traditional tree felling techniques might pose a risk to surrounding structures or necessitate greater control, Section Felling becomes an invaluable method. This technique involves cutting and removing a tree in sections, starting from the top, thus minimizing the area needed for the tree to fall. It is particularly effective in urban environments or in landscapes where trees are closely surrounded by buildings, power lines, or other sensitive structures.

Process of Section Felling: Assessment: Conduct a thorough assessment of the tree's condition and the surrounding area to identify potential hazards and plan the sequence of cuts.

Climbing and Rigging: The feller, equipped with appropriate climbing gear, ascends the tree. Rigging equipment is then set up to control the descent of cut sections.

Top-Down Cutting: Starting at the top, branches and sections of the trunk are cut and carefully lowered to the ground using ropes. This controlled method prevents free-falling debris, ensuring safety and minimizing impact.

Stump Removal: Once all sections of the tree are removed, the stump can be cut at ground level, or ground out, leaving a minimal footprint.

Due to its technical complexity, Section Felling requires skilled arborists familiar with rigging techniques and possessing a keen understanding of tree mechanics. Safety precautions must be rigorously observed to protect both the personnel involved and the surrounding environment. When executed correctly, Section Felling allows for the safe, efficient removal of trees in challenging spaces, making it an essential technique in modern arboriculture.

Steps and precautions

When undertaking Section Felling, certain steps and precautions are integral to ensure the process is conducted safely and efficiently.

Pre-Operation Inspection: Before beginning, inspect all equipment for wear or damage. This includes climbing gear, chainsaws, ropes, and rigging devices. Any faulty equipment should be repaired or replaced.

Communication Setup: Establish a system of communication between the climber and ground crew. Hand signals, voice commands, or radios can be used to ensure messages are clearly conveyed amidst the noise of chainsaws and environmental factors.

Protective Barriers: Set up barriers or signs around the operation area to keep bystanders at a safe distance. Falling branches and debris pose a significant risk to safety, making it crucial to control the vicinity.

Climber Safety: The climber should always use a secure safety harness and follow best practices for tree climbing. This includes always having a secondary support point and avoiding overreaching.

Cutting Technique: Ensure cuts are made systematically and in the correct sequence to maintain the tree's balance. Improper cutting technique can lead to uncontrolled falls, endangering both the climber and ground crew.

Debris Management: Assign a team member to manage the debris. Removing branches and sections from the drop zone in a timely manner keeps the area clear and reduces tripping hazards.

Monitoring: Continuously monitor the tree's stability throughout the section felling process. If the tree shows signs of shifting or cracking, pause work immediately and reassess the situation.

Final Inspection: Once the tree has been fully dismantled, conduct a final inspection of the area to ensure no hazards remain and that all equipment is accounted for.

Post-Felling Review: Review the operation with the team to discuss what went well and what could be improved. Learning from each project enhances safety and efficiency for future tree-felling tasks.

By adhering to these steps and precautions, arborists and tree care professionals can perform Section Felling in a manner that prioritizes the safety of everyone involved, as well as the preservation of surrounding property and infrastructure.

Best Practices for Safe Tree Felling

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

When engaging in tree felling, particularly through rigorous techniques such as Section Felling, wearing the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is not only recommended but necessary for ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. This specialized attire and equipment serve as a primary barrier against the myriad hazards encountered during tree removal tasks. Key components of PPE include:

Head Protection: A hard hat is vital to protect against falling branches, debris, and impacts. It should comply with safety standards and fit securely.

Eye and Face Protection: Safety goggles or face shields guard against flying wood chips, dust, and debris, preventing eye injuries and enhancing visibility.

Hearing Protection: Tree felling operations generate high noise levels, particularly from chainsaws. Earplugs or earmuffs are essential to protect against long-term hearing damage.

Hand Protection: Gloves should be durable and provide a good grip, safeguarding hands from cuts, abrasions, and vibrations from equipment use.

Leg Protection: Chainsaw protective chaps or pants are designed to provide a layer of protective material, which can minimize injury from chainsaw accidents by slowing or stopping the chain.

Foot Protection: Steel-toe boots ensure foot safety by offering protection from falling objects, punctures, and slips, due to their sturdy construction and slip-resistant soles.

High-Visibility Clothing: Reflective vests or jackets ensure that the wearer is clearly visible to other team members and bystanders, reducing the risk of accidental strikes.

Selection and maintenance of PPE are critical. Before each use, inspect PPE for any signs of damage or wear that could compromise its protective capabilities. Furthermore, ensure that all PPE fits properly and comfortably, as improperly fitting equipment can pose additional hazards.

By diligently wearing and maintaining proper PPE, tree care professionals can significantly reduce their risk of injury, enabling them to perform their tasks more safely and effectively.

Planning Escape Routes

An often-overlooked aspect of tree felling, particularly during Section Felling, is the importance of planning escape routes. An escape route is a predetermined path that the arborist and any nearby personnel will take to move to a safe distance away from the tree as it begins to fall or sections are being removed. The planning and clear communication of these routes are vital for ensuring the safety of all involved. Here are the key considerations for planning effective escape routes:

Route Identification: Prior to initiating the felling process, identify at least two escape routes that are opposite the planned direction of the tree's fall. Routes should be clear of obstacles and debris to allow for quick and unimpeded movement.

Distance: Ensure that all escape routes lead a sufficient distance away from the tree, generally recommended to be at least 15 feet (4.5 meters) from the base of the tree being felled. This helps to mitigate the risk of falling branches or the tree itself.

Visibility: Escape routes should be clearly marked and communicated to all team members. Consider using brightly coloured tape or markers to highlight these paths.

Drill Practice: Practice using the escape routes as part of the pre-operation safety briefing. This ensures everyone knows how to quickly and safely evacuate the area when necessary.

Obstacle Removal: Prior to starting work, remove any potential tripping hazards or obstacles from the escape routes. This includes rocks, tools, branches, or any other items that could impede movement.

Continuous Monitoring: As work progresses, continuously monitor and reassess the escape routes. The removal of tree sections might alter the landscape or create new hazards that need to be addressed.

Communication: Maintain open lines of communication regarding the use of escape routes. Any changes, obstacles, or concerns should be immediately shared with the entire team.

By meticulously planning and maintaining clear escape routes, arborists can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidents or injuries resulting from the unpredictable nature of tree-felling operations. Safety is paramount, and escape route planning plays a critical role in ensuring that tree felling tasks are conducted without incident.

Importance of a Lookout Person

One critical, yet sometimes underestimated, role in tree-felling operations is that of the lookout person. This individual is tasked with maintaining a vigilant watch over the work area, especially during complex procedures like Section Felling. The lookout's responsibilities include:

Monitoring Surroundings: Constantly observing the environment for any changes or potential hazards that could affect the safety of the operation. This includes watching for shifting weather conditions, unexpected movements of the tree, and the presence of bystanders or animals that may wander into the area.

Alerting Team Members: Immediately inform the team of any risks or changes observed in the work environment. Quick communication can prevent accidents by allowing workers to adjust their plans or actions in response to new or evolving threats.

Ensuring Clear Communication: Acting as a communication hub among team members, especially in situations where noise levels or distances might impede direct communication. Using signals, radios, or other means to relay messages ensures that all team members are informed and coordinated.

Assisting in Emergency Situations: In the event of an accident or emergency, the lookout person plays a crucial role in initiating response actions. They can quickly alert emergency services, guide rescuers to the site, and provide first-hand accounts of the incident.

The lookout person should be well-versed in tree-felling operations, capable of recognizing potential hazards and equipped with the necessary communication tools. Their position should offer a clear view of the entire work area, while also keeping them at a safe distance from any potential danger.

By incorporating a dedicated lookout into tree-felling teams, professionals can significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of their operations. This role not only helps in preventing accidents but also ensures a swift response when unforeseen incidents occur, safeguarding both the workers and the public.

Post-Felling Procedures

Disposal of Tree Remnants

After a tree has been successfully felled and the area made safe, attention must turn to the disposal of tree remnants. This encompasses everything from the main trunk and large branches to smaller limbs, leaves, and chips produced during the felling process. Efficient and environmentally responsible disposal practices not only tidy the work area but also reduce potential hazards and contribute to sustainability. Here are key strategies for managing tree remnants:

Chipping: Wood chippers are invaluable for converting smaller branches and limbs into wood chips. These chips can then be used as mulch for gardens, landscaping, or in park areas, offering a sustainable way to recycle the tree remnants.

Firewood: Larger pieces of the tree can be cut into logs and seasoned for firewood. This provides a renewable energy source and can be a cost-effective option for heating or cooking.

Removal Services: For remnants that cannot be repurposed on-site, professional tree removal services can be enlisted to transport and dispose of the material in an environmentally friendly manner. These services often have access to large-scale composting facilities or wood recycling centres.

Donation: Organisations or community groups may benefit from donated wood for construction projects, crafts, or other purposes. Schools, local parks, and non-profit organisations might welcome such contributions.

Biomass Fuel: Wood and other tree biomass can be processed into pellets or other forms to be used as fuel in bioenergy production. This use of tree remnants contributes to renewable energy solutions and can help reduce fossil fuel dependence.

Regardless of the disposal method chosen, it is crucial to follow local regulations and guidelines to ensure environmental compliance. Some areas may restrict the burning of tree remnants or have specific requirements for waste disposal. By adopting thoughtful and responsible disposal practices, tree care professionals not only address the immediate needs of the site but also contribute to broader environmental conservation efforts.

Site cleanup

Once all three remnants have been appropriately disposed of, attention can turn to site cleanup. This involves clearing the area of any debris, tools, and equipment used during the felling operation. A thorough cleanup helps ensure a safe environment for people and animals in the vicinity and also prevents potential hazards for future projects.

Here are some key steps to follow when cleaning up after a tree felling operation:

1. Check for any remaining tree remnants: Before starting the cleanup process, check the entire work site for any remnants that may have been missed during disposal.
2. Remove all tools and equipment: Gather all tools and equipment used during the felling operation and store them in their proper places.
3. Sweep or rake the area: Remove

Assessing Environmental Impact

After the felling of a tree, it's crucial to assess the environmental impact of the operation. This assessment includes examining the immediate area for potential damage to the surrounding vegetation and wildlife habitats. Factors such as soil compaction, disturbance to nearby plants, and the removal of a habitat or food source for wildlife must be considered. Additionally, the assessment should review any long-term effects on the local ecosystem, including changes in biodiversity and alterations in water absorption rates due to the removal of the tree.

Strategies to mitigate negative impacts include replanting native trees and plants to restore the habitat and improve biodiversity. Implementing soil aeration techniques where heavy machinery was used can also help alleviate soil compaction. By conscientiously assessing and addressing the environmental impact of tree felling operations, arborists and tree care professionals play a vital role in sustaining and enhancing urban and natural forested landscapes.

key points To Consider

In conclusion, ensuring the safety and efficiency of tree-felling operations encompasses several critical steps. Starting with preliminary checks and preparations, where evaluating tree health and surroundings is essential for choosing the best felling direction and method. Incorporating a dedicated lookout person enhances operational safety by monitoring for hazards and coordinating emergency responses if necessary. Post-felling procedures address the disposal of tree remnants, which can be managed through chipping, transforming into firewood, removal services, donation, or processing into biomass fuel, adhering to environmental guidelines. Site cleanup is vital for maintaining a safe and tidy work environment, involving the removal of debris, tools, and equipment. Finally, assessing the environmental impact aids in mitigating negative effects on the surrounding ecosystem, emphasising the importance of replanting and soil rehabilitation. These comprehensive practices support not only the safety of the tree-felling team but also the conservation of the environment, reflecting a responsible approach to tree care and land management.

The significance of responsible tree felling

Responsible tree felling transcends the mere removal of trees from a landscape; it embodies a comprehensive approach that considers the ecological balance, community safety, and future growth. It necessitates a deep understanding of the environment and a commitment to preserving its integrity. By implementing responsible tree-felling practices, professionals contribute significantly to maintaining biodiversity, ensuring soil health, and safeguarding water resources. This process also plays a crucial role in urban planning, where strategic tree removal can reduce hazards, enhance public safety, and facilitate necessary development while preserving green spaces. Furthermore, responsible tree felling supports sustainable resource use, providing materials for biomass energy and recycled wood products. In essence, it strikes a balance between the needs of human societies and the preservation of natural ecosystems, demonstrating respect for nature's cycles and fostering a legacy of stewardship for future generations.

If  you would like to ask any more questions about our tree felling Techniques for either your residential or commercial property, or you need help concerning any other type of tree services in Glasgow, then please call to arrange a free consultation to discuss and book an appointment with our professional team of tree surgeons and arborists.

Glasgow Trees

0141-483-7485