Description

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The Use of a Chainsaw from a MEWP course provides learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to safely undertake aerial tree work using a chainsaw from a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) in accordance with current arboricultural best practice, relevant health and safety legislation and recognised industry guidance.

Combining classroom-based learning with extensive practical training, delegates will develop the knowledge, practical skills and confidence required to plan and undertake aerial chainsaw operations from a MEWP, carry out pre-use inspections, safely position and operate the MEWP, apply safe cutting techniques and maintain effective communication whilst minimising risks to themselves, others and the surrounding environment. The course prepares delegates for the associated NPTC assessment, which can be arranged separately.

Training is delivered in line with the UK Rural Skills (UKRS) Course Standard, ensuring a structured, competence-based approach that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application in realistic arboricultural working conditions.

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Who Should Attend?

• Arborists and tree surgeons.
• Forestry and woodland workers.
• Utility arboriculture personnel.
• Estate and land management staff.
• Grounds maintenance contractors.
• Individuals required to undertake chainsaw operations from a MEWP.
• Experienced chainsaw operators preparing for the associated NPTC assessment.

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What You Will Learn

• Relevant health and safety legislation and operator responsibilities.
• Hazard identification and site-specific risk assessment.
• Planning safe aerial tree work using a MEWP.
• Selection and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Pre-use inspections of the MEWP, chainsaw and associated equipment.
• Selecting and positioning a suitable MEWP.
• Safe work positioning within the MEWP platform.
• Safe starting, handling and operation of a chainsaw at height.
• Aerial pruning and dismantling techniques from a MEWP.
• Managing falling timber, branches and exclusion zones.
• Communication between the MEWP operator and ground staff.
• Emergency procedures and aerial rescue planning.
• Routine operator maintenance and daily checks.
• Preparation for the associated NPTC practical assessment.

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Practical Training

• Carrying out pre-use inspections and safety checks.
• Selecting and positioning a suitable MEWP.
• Preparing equipment and establishing exclusion zones.
• Safely operating a chainsaw from a MEWP.
• Applying recognised pruning and dismantling techniques.
• Managing branches and timber safely during aerial operations.
• Maintaining effective communication with the ground team.
• Carrying out routine operator maintenance and cleaning.
• Practising the practical tasks required for the associated NPTC assessment.

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Assessment

Delegates are continuously assessed throughout the training through practical observation and instructor questioning to monitor progress and readiness for independent assessment.

This course does not include the NPTC assessment. Where required, the NPTC assessment can be arranged separately through an approved NPTC assessment centre.

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Certification

Upon successful completion of the training, delegates will receive a UK Rural Skills (UKRS) Certificate of Training confirming they have completed the training programme.

Where an NPTC Certificate of Competence is required, delegates must successfully complete the associated independent NPTC assessment, which is arranged separately.

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Entry Requirements

Delegates must hold current competence in chainsaw maintenance and cross-cutting and hold the appropriate, current licence to operate the type of Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) used during training.

Delegates should be physically capable of undertaking arboricultural work at height and possess a sufficient understanding of spoken and written English to fully participate in training and assessment.

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Course Duration

Course duration will vary depending on delegates' previous experience, the number of delegates attending and the complexity of the aerial tree work being undertaken. Training is tailored to individual requirements and is designed to prepare experienced operators for the safe use of a chainsaw from a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (MEWP) and the associated NPTC assessment.

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