Felling and Processing Trees up to 380 mm
Prepare for safe, supervised tree felling and processing with H&W Training. This course covers trees up to 380 mm, from site and tree assessment to felling cuts, snedding, cross-cutting and suitable hung-up tree techniques. Work through ten illustrated modules, watch 32 supporting videos and complete the learning activities before practical training. Course access requires the password supplied by your instructor.
Felling and Processing
Trees up to 380 mm
Online learning and practical preparation
10 modules | 38 lessons | 32 videos
START HERE
Using your Hub learning material
This H&W Training Hub material supports practical instruction in preparing, felling and processing trees with an effective felling diameter up to 380 mm. Work through the ten modules, study the retained illustrations and diagrams, and use the video observation prompts to prepare for supervised training. Complete the activities and knowledge checks in the learning notes and record points to revisit with your instructor.
Using the illustrations. Illustrations and diagrams help you recognise tree features, cut geometry, forces and unsafe situations. Use them alongside your instructor’s demonstrations of the full sequence, body position, saw reactions, escape and final result.
Course outcomes
- Explain the legal, competence, PPE, emergency and environmental controls for chainsaw felling work.
- Assess the site, weather, tree, neighbouring trees and intended felling direction.
- Prepare the work area, two escape routes and the tree for safe felling.
- Explain how the sink, hinge and felling cut control the direction and behaviour of a falling tree.
- Select and describe an appropriate felling method for trees up to 380 mm, within the learner's training and assessment scope.
- Remove branches, break down crowns and cross-cut timber using controlled techniques.
- Assess a hung-up tree and describe permitted manual takedown methods and prohibited actions.
- Organise timber, maintain safe working height, clear the site and complete post-use checks.
Guidance and course requirements
Use the current HSE Working with chainsaws and Chainsaws at work (INDG317) guidance, relevant FISA Safety Guides, the H&W course requirements explained by your instructor, and the chainsaw manufacturer’s instructions. Ask your instructor if you are unsure which requirements or methods apply to your work.
How to record your learning
Use your learning notes for written answers, reasons, sketches and annotated diagrams. Add the lesson, video or question ID to each response and record points to discuss with your instructor.
COURSE MAP
Modules and learning sequence
Module | Learning topic | Videos |
|---|---|---|
01 | Safety law competence and emergency planning | V01–V02 |
02 | Site tree and felling assessment | V03–V05 |
03 | Preparing the tree and work area | V06–V08 |
04 | Directional felling foundations | V09–V11 |
05 | Standard felling cut and felling aids | V12–V14 |
06 | Alternative cuts difficult trees and stump treatment | V15–V19 |
07 | Snedding de-limbing and crown breakdown | V20–V23 |
08 | Cross-cutting and timber handling | V24–V26 |
09 | Hung-up trees and manual takedown | V27–V30 |
10 | Organised working close-down and course review | V31–V32 |
The 32 video lessons are placed beside the relevant learning material. Each video has preparation prompts, observation points, a key reminder and a follow-up task.
The 20 original multiple-choice knowledge checks are grouped at the end of their relevant modules. Retain an explanation for each answer; these learning checks do not establish practical competence.
COURSE SCOPE
Scope and training boundaries
Included | Not automatically included |
|---|---|
Rear-handled petrol chainsaws used from the ground | Top-handled chainsaws or chainsaw use from a rope, harness, ladder or platform |
Trees with an effective felling diameter up to 380 mm and within the effective cutting length specified for the course | Large-tree techniques, trees beyond the operator's qualification, or work where the selected saw and bar are unsuitable |
Basic directional felling and specified alternative cuts under instruction | Winch-assisted directional felling, tree jacks, machinery-assisted felling or high-risk dead, diseased, storm-damaged or uprooted trees without additional training |
Manual takedown of suitable hung-up trees using approved hand tools | Complex hang-ups, unstable supports or situations needing winch or machine assistance |
Snedding, de-limbing, crown breakdown and cross-cutting of safely felled timber | Aerial pruning, dismantling or processing timber that cannot be stabilised |
Before you begin
Identify any equipment, technique or work situation in the scope table that you need your instructor to explain. Record the questions in your initial learning response.
