Felling a tree is the process of cutting down a live or dead tree to harvest its wood. It is a highly specialised and dangerous skill that requires a great deal of experience and knowledge.
There are many reasons to fell a tree, including to create space for new plantings or to remove unsuitable species that are causing damage or nuisance. In addition, it is sometimes necessary to fell trees close to buildings for structural and drainage reasons, or where their roots are causing subsidence and damage to foundations or pipes.
Using the correct techniques, tree felling can be safely and effectively carried out by trained professionals. The first step is to assess the site and the surrounding area. This includes identifying hazards, clearing vegetation and checking that the fall path is clear. It is also important to consider the ground conditions and moisture – a damp site can cause a tree to fall suddenly.
The next step is to make the first cut, known as the face-cut. This is made on the side of the tree toward which it is to fall and should be above any swelling at the base. It should be a minimum of 20 to 30 percent through the trunk. Ideally, the face-cut should be at least two tree lengths from any person or valued target and a faller should always work with a partner.
After the face-cut is made, the arborist makes an angled cut into the base of the tree, known as the notch cut. This weakens the wood and encourages it to fall in the desired direction. An undercut is then made on the opposite side of the notch cut, a few inches higher up. This further guides the direction of fall, allowing the notch to act as a hinge. A back cut then follows, completing the notch and strengthening the hinge to ensure the tree will fall in the required direction.
A hung-up tree is the leading cause of fatal injuries in tree felling, and should be avoided at all times. If the feller encounters a suspected hung-up tree, they should follow ACoP rule 11.7.4 and seek assistance or use a felling assistant/observer where appropriate.
Before felling, it is important to inspect the tree for any signs of structural weakness or decay. A rotten or hollow base can be difficult to fell with a conventional notch and drop method, and could compromise the direction in which the tree falls. A fallen tree can continue to fall for several minutes after it is cut, and has been known to severely injure or kill saw operators. It is also essential to examine the tree for any dead or dying branches that could still be hanging above you. These are known as widowmakers and can injure or even kill you if they fall on you after the tree has been felled.
A tree must be correctly felled to avoid damaging buildings, underground services and roads. A qualified arborist can carry out a full site survey to assess the risk and recommend the best way to fell and transport the tree for safety.
source https://axetreeservices.wordpress.com/2024/10/14/tree-felling-how-to-safely-and-effectively-fell-a-tree/
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