Post storm advice - working with fallen or damaged trees
Date published:
Extreme care must be taken when working with wind fallen/damaged trees. They may be unstable with a risk of crushing for people involved in cutting and removing them.
You must consider the following points when carrying out work to clear windblown trees:
- where possible engage the services of a competent professional contractor to carry out the work
- only those with appropriate training in the use of chainsaws should operate chainsaws
- assess the risk and plan the work carefully - be aware that windblown trees can move unexpectedly when cutting and adjacent trees may also be unstable
- never work on your own
- ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance from cutting activities
- wear suitable head and face guard protection
- wear a high-visibility jacket, and suitable protective clothing
- do not walk or work under unstable windblown trees
- tell someone your estimated time of return and take a mobile phone with you
The following links provide practical advice on chainsaw use but if in doubt consult a professional contractor:
- Chainsaws at work - (hse.gov.uk)
- AFAG publications - (hse.gov.uk)
- Using petrol-driven chainsaws - (ukfisa.com)
- Basic chainsaw felling and manual takedown - (ukfisa.com)
- Chainsaw snedding - (ukfisa.com)
- Chainsaw cross-cutting and manual stacking - (ukfisa.com)
- Chainsaw clearance of windblow - (ukfisa.com)
- Chainsaw felling of large trees - (ukfisa.com)
For more information please visit the following pages on the HSENI website:
- Chainsaw safety - think safe saw, safe operator and safe site (SOS)
- Health and safety advice during storms and bad weather
- or contact HSENI's helpline on 0800 0320 121