Aerial Tree Pruning (C&G NPTC) 0039-31

Location: Woodland near Ongar, Essex

Duration: Total 3 days (2 days training plus one-day assessment)

£700.00 Inc VAT

Candidates must have achieved the prerequisites:

Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw Maintenance and Crosscutting
Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm
Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue
Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Using a Chainsaw from a Rope and Harness

Level 3 Certificate of Competence in Aerial Tree Pruning

Unit 302 – Aerial Tree Pruning

This two‑day training course provides the knowledge, understanding and practical skills required to carry out aerial tree pruning safely and to industry standards, in line with current legislation. The C&G NPTC practical assessment takes place on a separate day.

Topics covered include Risk assessment and emergency planning, Relevant legislation and industry best practice, Assessing tree condition and working at height, Pruning techniques and methods, Tools, equipment, and safe operating procedures, Aerial pruning from a rope and harness.

To achieve this qualification candidates must successfully complete a one‑to‑one practical assessment with oral questioning, carried out by a City & Guilds NPTC approved assessor.

Candidates MUST provide their own tree climbing equipment compliant with LOLER Regulations. This means providing a receipt of purchase if equipment is less than 6 months old. Or, produce evidence the equipment has been thoroughly examined by a “competent person” within the last 6 months. In addition, weekly inspections must have been carried out and recorded, with documentation available to verify this.

LOLER compliant Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) if used.
LOLER compliant climbing equipment with documented evidence.
Top handled or rear handled Chainsaw (max guide bar 15 inch) with maintenance tools.
Fuel and biodegradable chainsaw oil in approved container(s).
Hand pruning tools.
Silkie type hand saw.
Climbers may carry a knife with either a lockable folding blade or a fixed blade held in a protective sheath.

Safety helmet (the HSE Arboriculture and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG) recommends a mountaineering-style helmet complying with BS EN 12492).
Hearing protection complying with BS EN 352.
Eye protection/ mesh visor complying with either BS EN 1731.
Gloves appropriate to the task and subject to the operator’s risk assessment.
All round leg and groin protection complying with BS EN 381-5. AFAG strongly recommends Type C leg protection for aerial work.
Chainsaw boots with good grip and ankle support complying with BS EN ISO 17249.
Non snag outer clothing (preferably high vis).
Personal first-aid kit, incorporating a large wound dressing, barrier gloves, plasters and a whistle.