Post storm advice - working with fallen or damaged trees

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

Share this page