What Does Tree Surgery Involve?

Tree surgery involves working on trees, and is a specialist field that requires high levels of training. It can be a dangerous job, but when properly trained, it’s a rewarding career choice for those who love the outdoors and have a strong interest in forestry and arboriculture.

A reputable tree surgeon will carry out work to ensure that a tree is in good condition, and this includes identifying any diseases or structural problems. They will also be able to provide advice on how to prevent the spread of disease among trees in an urban environment, where they are often situated close to buildings and roads.

In addition to this, tree surgeons can help to enhance the value of a property by maintaining trees that add character and aesthetic appeal. They can also identify any issues that could potentially affect the overall health of a tree, such as root damage, and recommend measures to rectify the issue.

There are several different routes into the profession, although most tree surgeons will have at least some formal qualifications in forestry or arboriculture. This can be combined with practical experience gained working on site, or through further study at a university or college. Many tree surgeons will choose to become self-employed, where they can set their own rates and schedule of work, and will take on projects based on their availability.

During their day-to-day duties, tree surgeons will be required to inspect and survey both the trees they are working on, as well as the surrounding areas. They will need to complete risk assessments before starting work, and will have to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when working at heights, such as harnesses and climbing tools.

As part of their job, they will have to climb very tall trees on a regular basis, and this can be quite a physical challenge. They will need to drink plenty of water, and try to avoid working outside at midday, when the sun is hottest.

The most reputable tree surgeons will follow sustainable practices, and aim to preserve trees wherever possible. This means that they will explore pruning and trimming options before recommending tree felling as a last resort. They will also replant trees where possible, and recycle timber products, ensuring that they minimise waste.

In the past, there have been a number of fatal accidents involving tree surgeons, including two deaths in 2012 and one in 2014. These incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of adherence to safety protocols, and of prioritising training and upholding professionalism. In order to protect themselves, tree surgeons should have professional indemnity insurance, which can cover the costs of a claim for negligence or bad advice. In addition, they should be NPTC-qualified and have full public liability insurance. This will give them peace of mind that they have the correct knowledge and skills to work safely in this risky occupation. In addition, they should be able to demonstrate that they have taken on additional training in recent years, and keep up-to-date with evolving industry guidelines regarding safety protocols.

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