Here at Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, we are committed to ensuring every member of our team has the relevant tree surgeon qualifications. In this article, we cover the key skills and training courses required to do what we do…
In order to operate as a professional tree surgery business in the UK, you need to adhere to stringent training and certification requirements. This ensures the tree work meets industry standards and protects both our employees and the general public. If you’re considering hiring a tree surgeon or thinking about a career in arboriculture, here’s an in-depth look at the qualifications and safety courses required for UK tree surgeons.
Firstly, let’s cover the core tree surgeon qualifications…
City & Guilds NPTC (National Proficiency Tests Council) Qualifications
These are the industry-standard tree surgeon qualifications, covering various aspects of tree care and chainsaw operation. Some of the key NPTC courses include:
- Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-Cutting (CS30): covers essential chainsaw maintenance and safe usage.
- Felling and Processing Trees up to 380mm (CS31): how to safely fell small trees.
- Aerial Tree Rescue Operations (CS38): essential for working at height, covering aerial rescues.
- Aerial Cutting of Trees Using Free-Fall Techniques (CS39): the safe of a chainsaw while climbing.
- Severing Uprooted or Wind-Blown Trees (CS34/35): advanced training for handling dangerous storm-damaged trees.
LANTRA Awards
LANTRA is another leading awarding body providing arboriculture training. The courses cover a range of tree care techniques, including tree inspection, pruning and woodchipper operation. Many tree surgeons undertake LANTRA training alongside NPTC qualifications.
First Aid Training
Given the high-risk nature of tree surgery, first aid training is crucial. Tree surgeons must complete an Emergency First Aid at Work (EFAW) or First Aid and Forestry course to handle workplace injuries effectively.
Health and Safety Training
The work of tree surgeons also requires a whole host of health and safety assessments and accreditations, including:
- LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) Inspection: climbing equipment and harnesses must undergo regular inspections in compliance with LOLER to ensure they remain safe for use.
- Working at Height Regulations: these proper harnessing, rope work, and risk assessments to ensure safety while climbing.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): tree surgeons require chainsaw trousers, helmets, gloves, eye protection and steel-toe boots. PPE usage is covered by Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations.
- CHAS: the UK’s leading provider of compliance and risk management solutions across multiple industries. Membership simplifies the process of being assessed for contractor compliance, which saves tree surgeons time and money.
- British Standards Institution (BSI): the national standards body of the UK, BSI produces technical standards on a wide range of products and services. Tree surgeons require BS5837 (advice on developing land containing trees) and BS3998 (general tree work).
- ISO 9001: a global standard for quality management systems (QMS) that helps businesses improve processes and meet customer and regulatory requirements.
- ISO 14001: a standard that covers environmental management systems.
Additional Specialist Training
- Tree Survey and Inspection Courses: for those involved in tree health assessments and risk evaluations.
- Pesticide Application (PA1 & PA6): required for tree surgeons handling pesticides and herbicides.
- Stump Grinding and Woodchipper Training: ensures safe operation of machinery used in tree work.
Got a question about tree surgeon qualifications?
Here at Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, we take great pride in our ongoing investment in professional standards. Our team is fully certified, insured and continuously trained in the latest arboriculture techniques.
Hiring a qualified and reputable tree surgeon is crucial for ensuring that work is carried out correctly and safely. Whether you are in Stotfold or Letchworth, if you live in North Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire and require expert tree care or advice, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our skilled professionals are ready to help with everything from hedge trimming to tree removal.