SUPPORTING THE TREE SURGERY SECTOR

A powered access platform is one of the safest ways to carry out tree work

The use of mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), such as scissor, boom and vehicle-mounted powered access platforms, can help prevent a fall from occurring when carrying out tree work at height. Sometimes a tree might have structural defects that make it unsuitable for rigging and/or climbing systems, in which case a MEWP would be the safer option.

It is important to ensure that any tree work at height is suitably and sufficiently planned, managed and carried out. A site survey/assessment will need to be undertaken before work starts. GTAccess can help with specifying the correct access platform for the task and offer free site surveys that will carefully consider site layout, access, egress, land use and terrain.

A powered access platform is one of the safest means for temporary work at height, provided that a risk assessment is done, managers and operators are properly trained and safe use procedures are followed.

MORE INFORMATION

HSE - MEWP's for Tree Work

Use and effectiveness of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) for tree work.

MEWP's for Tree Work

Toolbox Talks - Ground Conditions

A Toolbox Talk on how to reduce the risk of a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) incident due to poor ground conditions.

Toolbox Talk on Ground Conditions

RISK ASSESSMENT

Before any aerial tree work operations commence, it is important to assess the following:

1. Is there adequate space available for the operation and/or machinery?
2. Are the ground conditions and topography suitable/stable?
3. Is there adequate safe working distances from overhead services?
4. Is the site access available/unrestricted i.e. unrestricted access to the tree’s crown as required for the task?
5. Are the wind speed, exposure and weather conditions suitable for use?
6. Are the operatives adequately trained and proficient to undertake the tasks required?

RISK ASSESSMENT AND METHOD STATEMENT