TRAINEES
A course for operators of chainsaws who hold NPTC Units CS30, CS31 and CS32. The basic course will involve the severing and processing of windblown trees of a diameter up to 1¾ effective guide bar length. Also covers using a winch to control tension and root plates, and the felling of partially blown leaning trees.

Optional objectives are available covering dealing with broken trees with hanging tops, and working in multiple windblow with a view towards subsequent extraction, to ensure that material is presented correctly.

Successful completion of this course will prepare trainees for assessment for NPTC Units CS34 and CS35.

The course is physical in nature and requires the carrying and movement of items in a forest and/or woodland environment, partly or wholly consisting of windblown trees.

OBJECTIVES
The expected learning outcomes are that the trainee: -

1. Understands the regulations and safety requirements related to the use of chainsaws.

2. Severs trees of a diameter up to 1¾ effective guide bar length.

3. Fells partially blown and leaning trees safely.

4. Uses a winch to control excessive side tension and/or overhanging rootplates.

5. Processes broken trees with attached hanging tops that touch the ground.*

6. Processes multiple windblown trees and presents produce as specified to facilitate subsequent extraction or loading.*

*OPTIONAL

SYLLABUS
1. Update and revise on: protective clothing; safety regulations; AFAG Guides 301, 302, 303, 306, 802, 804 and manual handling.

2. Up date and revise on: machine components, functions and controls, daily, weekly and periodic maintenance of the saw, guide bar and chain, chainbrake testing.

3. Identification of tension and compression in tree stems. Factors affecting choice of severing method: safety, location of tension and compression, size of tree, slope, escape routes. AFAG 306. Site factors: electric power lines, remaining standing trees, climatic conditions, subsequent extraction, other work. Identification of other hazards.

4. Assessment of tree size. Choice of techniques. Movement of tree and root plate. Subsequent actions.

5. Minimum specification of winch components. Location of components. Setting up. Winching technique.

6. Identification of hazards. Techniques employed.*

7. Work organisation - planning.
Short wood: conversion of timber to given end product specification; kinetic principles in moving produce; aid tools; presentation in the wood.
Whole pole: partial processing; communication with skidder, safety; sequence of extraction; completion.*

*OPTIONAL

DURATION
Two days.

LOCATION
To be advised.

NB Full discussion with the instructor prior to the course will help determine course content and training specification required to suit individual needs