Aerial Tree Rigging (NPTC) 003932

The module requires reading and interpreting of information such as safety instructions and technical knowledge and prepares candidates for NPTC independent assessment. This intensive practical course requires a good level of physical fitness and an ability to study written technical information.

Candidates should be comfortable working at heights in excess of 10 meters and hold Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross-cutting, Felling Trees up to 380mm, Access a Tree Using a Rope and Harness and Aerial Tree Rescue and Aerial Cutting of Trees with a Chainsaw Using Free-fall Techniques.

Before coming on the course please look through the Evaluation of current rigging and dismantling practices used in arboriculture Research Report RR668, this document will help you with your assessment www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr668.pdf

By making a booking you are declaring yourself medically fit to participate in this course.

• Approved tree climbing harness in good condition. CE marked with leg loops
• 2 x Climbing ropes - min 12mm, 35-50m long required with manufacturers eye and without any defects
• 6 x self-locking 3 movement Karabiners
• 5 x Prussik loops or split tails or similar
• 1 x adjustable strop for climbing and rescue recommended 5m in length must have a manufacturers eye
• 1 x Set of climbing spikes
• 1 x Top or rear handled chainsaw

• A safety helmet (the HSE Arboriculture and Forestry Advisory Group (AFAG) recommends a mountaineering-style helmet complying with BS EN 12492).
• Eye protection (complying with either BS EN 1731 or BS EN 166).
• Hearing protection (complying with BS EN 352).
• Suitable gloves appropriate to the task and subject to the operator’s risk assessment.
• Leg protection* and groin protection (complying with BS EN 381-5). AFAG recommends Type C leg protection for aerial work because of the high all-round chainsaw cut protection. However, where wearing Type C is impractical (eg because of the higher risk of heat stress associated with it), it may be appropriate to use Type A, where justified by risk assessment.
• Protective boots* with good grip and protective guarding at front vamp and instep (complying with BS EN ISO 20345).
• Non-snag outer clothing. The use of high-visibility clothing may also be appropriate.
• As a minimum, climbers should carry a personal first-aid kit, incorporating a large wound dressing, barrier gloves, plasters and a whistle.
• Climbers may carry a knife with either a lockable folding blade or a fixed blade held in a protective sheath.
• Hand-cleaning materials such as waterless skin cleanser or soap, water and paper towels should be readily available.