18
– If unable to safely and satisfactorily resolve these
issues, have a certified trained professional carry
out the tree felling.
– The direction can be changed from that intended
by factors such as wind, sloping terrain, tree
growth (leaning, heavy limb structure one side and
decay) etc. Failure to observe these factors or
account for them can result in severe injury or
fatality.
– Plan an escape route and ensure all scrub, debris
and undergrowth is cleared so an unimpeded
escape can quickly be made to safety if the felling
direction unexpectedly changes.
– Delimb the tree up to shoulder height of all
branches. If the tree has large buttress roots
also remove these to enable the direction notch to
be cut as close to the ground as possible.
– The direction notch
should be started at 45º
down into approximately one third the trees
diameter. Cut the bottom of the notch at 90º and
remove the wedge. On the opposite side of the
tree and 5cm higher than the bottom of the notch,
the felling cut
should be made at 90º. This cut
must be made in one go and stop 5cm from the
back of the notch. This creates the hinge which is
very important as it helps control the felling. The
hinge
must be parallel. Use the spiked bumper
to obtain a firm grip and leverage while
performing these cuts.
– The use of wedges should be employed to prevent
the saw becoming pinched and to complete the
fell safely.
9. OPERATION AND USE
D
AN
GER ZONE
ESCAPE
ROUTE
ESCAPE
ROUTE
Tree trunk
DANGER
ZONE
Tree trunk
Direction of fall
5cm
5cm
FIG.14
FIG.15
FIG.16
