FWPCOT2275 - Fell Trees Manually (Basic)
This unit of competency describes the knowledge and skills required to assess and fell basic trees manually using a chainsaw, and to complete routine operator chainsaw maintenance.
The unit applies to individuals who possess existing proficiency in operating a chainsaw and are required to fell basic trees as part of arboriculture, forestry, agriculture, conservation and land management, local government, emergency services and other government agency operations. With the exception of minor forest produce, this unit does not apply to commercial harvesting operations.
Trees typical to the scope of this unit may have some of the following characteristics:
- lean and where distribution of the crown weight does not create a complex situation to assess, place the cut or fall
- no excessive lean
- no visible damage or defect
- uniform in structure
- species that are not prone to free splitting and adverse reactions during felling
- single stem or non-complex multi-stems
- small or medium diameter that is not more than chainsaw bar length and can be safely felled using standard and basic felling techniques
- site characteristics that do not add significant complexity to the operation.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.
An individual demonstrating competency must satisfy all of the elements and performance criteria in this unit.
There must be evidence that the individual has assessed, planned and conducted the felling of a minimum of three basic trees. In felling each tree, the individual has used a chainsaw with a bar length appropriate to the tree's diameter and made a standard scarf cut facing the direction of intended fall. In performing this cut, the individual must have ensured that:
- the scarf cut includes a top cut angled at 30° to 45° and a depth of 1/4 to 1/3 of the tree diameter and a horizontal flat bottom cut that meets precisely with the lowest part of the top cut
- the back cut is parallel to and above the scarf line by 1/10 (or 10%) of the tree diameter
- a minimum 1/10 (or 10%) of the tree diameter remains uncut, leaving hinge wood.
In performing this cut, the individual must have also demonstrated, at least once, the application of the wedge technique to ensure that the tree falls in the direction intended by the scarf cut.
There must also be evidence that the individual has documented a risk assessment for at least one of the felled trees. This documentation must detail localised hazards and risks associated with tree felling and specify methods to minimise these risks.
In completing this work, the individual must demonstrate correct use of personal protective equipment and that, for each tree, the felling technique was consistent with current Australian Standards and industry codes of practice applicable to tree felling operations.
In addition, there must be evidence that, on at least one occasion, the individual has sharpened one chain, inspected and carried out routine maintenance on one chainsaw and its cutting attachments according to manufacturer requirements.
Target Audience:
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Content:
- Prepare for felling
- Assess site conditions and surroundings
- Assess tree and plan felling
- Apply tree felling techniques
- Maintain chainsaw and cutting attachments