What Is The Role Of A Tree Surgeon

Those considering a profession in tree surgery, should at the very least, love the outdoors, be in good physical condition, and have a strong interest in the conservation and care of trees. Tree surgeons are often called out in poor weather conditions and required to travel long distances, so a commitment to the trade is essential.

To become a tree surgeon a combination of academic and professional training is required. If you've ever been tempted to study subjects such as chainsaw use and maintenance; tree climbing and aerial rescue; mobile elevated work platform (cherry picker); wood chippers; or small tree felling, then perhaps a career in tree surgery is for you. Most tree surgery companies will expect you to have done some apprenticeships as hands-on experience is always the most valuable.

Of course, industry specific certifications are required for certain levels of work. For instance, in order to work with tools, surgeons must have a Level 1 certification in NPTC or SSTS. Those people looking to be self-employed are required to have a Level 2 ISA, RFS, or NVQ in aboriculture. To be a supervisor or foreman, surgeons must have a Level 3 in NVQ tree work and a technicians certificate in aboriculture. With these qualifications, surgeons can run their own companies or obtain senior roles at existing companies.

Once credentials have been earned and the title of tree surgeon has been granted, what are their responsibilities?

When climbing up trees, surgeons are looking for a few things including, dead wood, splits, and cracked limbs, that will most definitely split under heavy snow or wind. 'Crown liftings' are a common activity of tree surgeons. This is when under branches are cut down or lifted up so that there is space to see between the main branches and the ground and so that crowned branches aren't sweeping the floor.

Common winter jobs include, removing trees and wood lost during the summer as well as milling the timber.

Common summer jobs include, tidying up the trees by thinning and strengthening trees with cables and bolts.

While aboriculture work involves a lot of tools, there are other, more natural ways to conserve trees. One such method is the use of Mycorrizhal. Mycorrizhal is a friendly fungi that helps the tree become more adaptable to harsh weather conditions and prevent it from becoming infected by aggressive fungi. If this plant is used at home harsh, artificial fertilisers should be avoided.

There are many things that individuals can do to maintain their trees and keep them healthy, but they should avoid doing work that is dangerous. If that type of work is required, professional help should be sought.

Learn more about site clearance or tree clearance