The Basics of Tree Cutting

Tree Cutting is a very dangerous job and must be done with the proper tools and equipment, by an experienced tree services company. It involves a lot of heavy work, and can lead to injury if not done properly. There are many steps involved in the process, including a job hazard analysis and planning. There are five main factors that make up the process of felling a tree: the tree height, directional lean, escape routes, a back cut and a hinge.

The first step is assessing the condition of the tree. This includes determining if it needs to be cut down, and if it is dead or dying. If a tree is dead or dying, it may fall suddenly and cause serious injury or damage. The next step is making a plan for the tree. This should include a safety assessment, the use of proper equipment and a detailed job hazard analysis. It should also detail the location of power lines, any obstacles in the tree’s path or in the landing zone and a safe means to clear the area.

Once the plan is set, the crew will begin cutting down the tree. The first cut, which is referred to as the directional felling cut, is made at the top of the tree. This is a large notch that is about half way through the tree. The directional cut is designed to keep the tree on the intended path of fall and allows for the back cut (Step 8) to be made. A back cut is a cut made on the opposite side of the directional cut, and it releases stresses that would otherwise pull the tree in a different direction.

A notch can be made with a chainsaw or hand saw, depending on the size of the job and the experience of the crew. Typically, the notch is an open-face notch, which keeps the tree on the intended path of fall and helps reduce pinching. Once the directional cut is made, a back cut is then cut on the opposite side of the tree at a point slightly above the hinge point of the undercut. This is a crucial cut that can help save lives and property by reducing the likelihood of a tree falling unexpectedly.

It is important that the crew has a safe escape route before beginning the cuts. This will protect them from being trapped in the tree when it falls and also prevents people from trying to stand up or linger around the fallen trees for a quick selfie or video. There have been many instances of people getting maimed or even killed by attempting to stay near the stump of a fallen tree after it has already fallen.

To find out where a tree is going to fall, take a stick and position it in front of you along the path that the trunk will follow as it falls. Then, move around the tree and assess its limb weight, as well as the overall wood weight. This will give you a better understanding of where the tree is likely to fall, and whether it might shift directions during its descent.

from Sunshine Coast Tree Lopping Caloundra https://ift.tt/NP9WgMi