Install and maintain structural supports for trees Legacy

This standard is about installing and maintaining structural supports for trees. These supports will aid the stability of trees. Bracing or supporting a tree means installing, in the appropriate circumstances, a flexible or rigid system into the tree to support its trunk and or branches thereby reducing the risk of failure.

Access to tree crowns can be either by Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) or rope and harness techniques.

When working with machinery you need to be appropriately trained, and hold current certification where required, in line with relevant legislation.

Your work must conform to all relevant legislation and codes of practice when carrying out this work.

1. assess the risks associated with the site and the proposed work
2. select and implement appropriate working methods in accordance with the assessed risks
3. select and use the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the work
4. identify trees where structural support would be beneficial
5. select the most suitable structural support system for the situation and the well-being of the tree
6. select, prepare and use the appropriate tools and equipment, safely and effectively
7.

confirm all equipment has been checked and is fit for purpose

8. calculate the expected load and select compatible components within their design/safety factors

9. determine the appropriate position of the installation according to the situation

10. select an appropriate access method and rescue plan for safe working at height
11. communicate the work plan to the ground crew
12. install the selected structural support system into the tree, following current British Safety Standard guidelines and minimising damage to the tree and the environment
13. report on the structural support system used and implement an inspection regime for maintaining structural supports for trees
14. ensure the site is left in a condition which meets environmental requirements, in accordance with the specification
15. maintain the health and safety of yourself and others at all times, in line with relevant legislation

1. how to identify hazards and assess risks
2. how to interpret risk assessments
3. the selection, use and care of personal protective equipment (PPE)
4. emergency planning and procedures relevant to the site
5. how to identify when a structural support for trees is appropriate
6. the different types of structural support system and their application
7. the types of tools and equipment required and how to maintain and use these safely and effectively in line with the manufacturer's recommendations
8.

the legal requirements for checking equipment

9. how to identify the correct position for the installation of a structural support system and why this is important

10. how to calculate the load and match the materials used to the expected loads to be placed on them

11. how to apply any pruning requirements to supplement the structural support system
12. how to identify tree species and their characteristics in relation to the selection and installation of the structural support system
13. the basic principles of tree biology and how they affect your work
14. how to install each structural system safely and correctly
15. the maintenance requirements and maintenance period of each type of structural support system
16. the implications and liabilities of installing a support system into a dynamic structure
17. the implications of relevant legislation, codes of practice and current British Safety Standards for your work
18. the potential impact of your work on the environment and how this can be minimised
19. your responsibilities under relevant environmental, health and safety legislation and codes of practice

How to install the following types of structural support systems:

• rod brace – a rod to stabilise a weak fork OR to bridge a cavity OR to stabilise two rubbing branches
• invasive flexible brace – cable into the tree crown
• non-invasive flexible brace incorporating belt attachments into the tree crown prop to restrain downward movement of a heavy or long branch within a few metres of the ground
• propping