GENERAL CUTTING INSTRUCTION
GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR FELLING TREES
FELLING
Felling is the term for cutting down a tree. Small trees up to 15-18cm in
diameter are usually cut in a single cut. Larger trees require notch cuts. Notch
cuts determine the direction the tree will fall.
FELLING A TREE:
WARNING: A retreat path (A) should be planned and cleared as necessary
before cuts are started. The retreat path should extend back and diagonally to
the rear of the expected line of fall, as illustrated in Fig. 2.
WARNING: If felling a tree on sloping ground,
the chain saw operator should keep on the uphill
side of the terrain, as the tree is likely to roll or
slide downhill after it is felled.
NOTE:
Direction of fall (B) is controlled by the
notching cut. Before any cuts are made, consider
the location of larger branches andnatural lean
of the tree to determine the way the tree will fall.
WARNING: Do not cut down a tree during high or
changing winds or if there is a danger to properly.
Consult a tree professional. Do not cut down a tree
if there is a danger of striking utility wires; notify the
utility company before making any cuts.
Normally felling consists of 2 main cutting operations, notching (C) and making
the felling cut (D).
Start making the upper notch cut (C) on the side
of the tree facing the felling direction (E).
Be sure you don’t make the lower cut too deep into
the trunk.
The notch (C) should be deep enough to create a
hinge (F) of sufficient width and strength.
The notch should be wide enough to direct the
fall of the tree for as long as possible.
WARNING: Never walk in front of a tree that
has been notched. Make the felling cut (D) from the
other side of the tree and 3-5cm above the edge of
the notch (C) (Fig. 2B).
Fig. 2A
Fig. 2B
