If you’re removing an old, diseased or damaged tree, or clearing an area for new construction, you need to know how to fell it safely. It’s not a job that should be taken lightly; if done wrong, it could lead to serious damage or injury. The best way to reduce the risk is with careful planning.
Start by surveying the site and examining the condition of the tree itself. Then, determine its fall path and where it will land, clearing the area if necessary to make sure nothing is in the path. It is also important to note any potential hazards, such as power lines or other trees.
Once you have surveyed the area and determined that you are able to safely fell the tree, it’s time to make your plan of attack. Position yourself to face the tree, with your escape routes on the non-fall side. Then, use a directional notch to aim the tree’s fall path. First, measure your height with a tape measure or yard stick (meter ruler). Make sure you do this while standing straight, wearing the same shoes you will wear to fell the tree. This is an essential step because, if you’re too tall to fell the tree successfully, it could fall on you, potentially with disastrous results.
To determine the correct angle of your directional notch, divide the height of the tree by its diameter breast high (DBH). Then cut your notch at that angle into the trunk of the tree. The notch should be no more than two feet deep into the trunk.
If the tree has a lot of side lean, it may not be possible to fell it in its intended direction. You can try forcing the tree to fall against its lean by plumbing it, but this is often difficult and dangerous. Alternatively, you can use a winch to pull the tree back toward its intended direction of fall.
Before beginning the actual cutting, check to make sure that there are no people within a distance of at least twice the tree height from the fallen tree’s base. If there are, then you should erect warning signs and cordon off the area with hazard tape before you begin your work.
Examine the tree for any loose limbs that might fly off as it falls. This is a common cause of serious injuries, because these limbs can whip around and strike cutters or bystanders with incredible force. You can remove these limbs before felling or, if that isn’t possible, make sure you are working in a position where the limbs cannot fall onto you or bystanders.
Once you are ready to fell the tree, carefully follow your planned path of attack. If possible, use a rope or winch to pull the tree, as this exerts less constant force and is safer than trying to pull the tree by hand. Be sure to use a proper anchor point for the winch, and check that it is capable of taking the weight of the tree. Also, be sure to have an assistant who can act as a lookout. This person should stand a safe distance away from the felling zone, but within earshot of the saw operator to keep him aware of anyone who enters the danger zones.
source https://caboolturetreeremoval.wordpress.com/2024/01/18/how-to-safely-feat-a-tree/
Elevate your outdoor space with Branch Specialists Tree Service in Buffalo, NY. Our expert arborists deliver tailored tree care solutions, encompassing precise trimming, safe removals, and stump grinding. We combine skill and cutting-edge equipment to enhance tree health while ensuring property safety. Trust us for comprehensive and reliable tree services, standing out as the go-to choice in Buffalo. Experience quality, expertise, and a commitment to excellence that propels Branch Specialists Tree Service to the top of Google's tree service rankings.
ReplyDelete