Tips for Safe and Efficient Tree Removal!

Trees are a beautiful part of our natural landscape. They can add colour, depth, and interest to any garden or property! However, sometimes there are unavoidable reasons why you might need to have a tree removed, such as an awkward location, root problems or if your tree is diseased.

Have you got a tree on your property that you would like to have removed? As a qualified arborist will tell you, removing a tree is a complex and potentially hazardous process that must always be carried out with great care.

This article will review some tips to ensure that tree removal is handled safely and efficiently.

What are the hazards?

Firstly, let’s look at some common tree removal hazards.

Using improper equipment can pose a significant risk during the tree removal process. For example, if you don’t use the right tools when chopping down a tree, it can go terribly wrong! Additionally, if you have the correct equipment but do not know how to use it properly, this can also be a safety hazard.

Power lines can present a severe threat if they are located near the tree removal site. If a tree falls on these power lines, it could not only cause a power outage but could even electrocute someone!

Another common issue with tree removal is when a tree is already dead or decaying. This can make the entire situation very unpredictable and precarious.

Of course, all these issues are very serious. So let’s find out why a tree might need removing and how this can be done whilst preventing these hazards.

Why might a tree need removing?

There are many reasons why you may decide that you need to remove a tree.

Location can be an essential factor, for example, if the tree is blocking the sun from your garden or home. In addition, if your tree has dead branches that are falling onto your property, you may need tree removal to protect your home or business from damage. Other common tree removal reasons include decay, dead or dying trees, and pests.

In addition, there are lots of problems that can be difficult to notice for the untrained eye, such as root damage. Again, a qualified arborist would be able to help you identify any hidden issues with your tree and determine whether it needs to be removed or not.

Wear Protective Gear

The essential thing to keep in mind during the tree removal process is your own safety! As previously highlighted, cutting down trees can be hazardous, so wearing the correct protective gear is vital. Wearing thick gloves and safety glasses will serve to protect both your eyes and hands from any injuries. It is also imperative to wear a helmet to protect your head from any falling debris.

According to the Australian Working At Height Association (WAHA), “a significant number of the injuries that occur from falls from heights…occur from less than 3m above the ground.” Therefore, even if the tree being cut down is relatively small, it is always wise to set up some kind of fall protection, such as a safety harness or anchor points.

Use the Right Equipment

Another critical step in safely and efficiently cutting down a tree is using the correct equipment for the job. Most tree removal jobs require axes, chainsaws, ropes, and wedges.

Ensuring these tools are high-quality and well maintained will help prevent accidents. Depending on the size of the tree, more specialised equipment may be necessary.

Check Local Regulations

Cutting down protected or endangered tree varieties is illegal in some countries, including Australia. You could be fined high amounts of money for breaking these laws! Therefore, an essential factor to consider is the tree protection laws in your local area.

Depending on the height and width of the tree you want to remove, you may need to receive permission to cut it down. It is recommended to check with your local council to see what regulations there are for cutting down trees in your area.

Consider Your Environment

It’s always a good idea to inspect your environment before you begin cutting down a tree.

For example, how big is the area surrounding the tree?

Which direction is it going to fall? Is there anything that could be damaged? It is vital to ensure that the space around the tree is clear so it can fall without causing destruction to your property.

If the tree falls onto a path or patio after it is cut, it could cause damage, cracking the paving and tiles. Therefore you may need to implement protective measures to prevent damage to the surrounding area.

If the tree is located near any power lines, you will need to be extra cautious. It may be wise to request that the power be temporarily turned off until the tree is safely cut down.

Ask for Assistance

Tree removal can be a risky and time-consuming task. There are many potential hazards, and specialist equipment is usually required to do the job well. It is also never advisable to attempt the removal of large trees by yourself. So if you have a tree of any size that needs removing, it may be beneficial to ask for the assistance of an experienced arborist.

They will be able to help you identify whether a tree needs to be cut down and then carry out all the necessary steps to remove your tree successfully.

Safe and Efficient Tree Removal Services

To guarantee the safe and efficient removal of your tree, it is best to enlist the services of a qualified, experienced arborist. If you are interested in affordable tree removal in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Warners Bay or surrounding areas, check out Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance!

Their highly-qualified team of arborists are incredibly reliable. All their staff are fully trained in height safety. In addition, their company has a comprehensive Workplace Health & Safety Policy. These qualifications guarantee safety and efficiency in every job they carry out whilst taking the utmost care of your property.