Arboricultural Health & Safety Survey
An Arboricultural Health and Safety Survey, also known as a Hazard Safety Audit, allows tree owners to be reassured that their trees do not pose an unacceptable risk to users of theirs and neighbouring land.
In all circumstances the owner of the land on which the tree stands is liable for the consequences of any failure of the tree, in whole or in part. Clients should therefore consider the benefit and assurance provided by a professional arboricultural report, in this instance a Health and Safety Survey.
Our consultants carry out ground level tree inspections which provide a detailed analysis of tree condition, any defects and their consequence. We offer expert advice in the form of a tree work schedule and recommend timescales for completing any works identified. Where further investigation works may be required in the instance of suspected decay, we are able to use the latest decay detection equipment to carry out a more detailed examination.
Visual Tree Assessment
Visual Tree Assessment (VTA) is a non-invasive method of examining the health and structural condition of individual trees. The assessment provides information on the condition of the, trunk, main branch structure, crown, buds and leaves together providing an assessment of general tree health and vitality. Basic decay detection tools such as percussion may be utilised to determine whether further investigation is required, using decay detection methods.
Tree Health (Decay Detection)
CBA Trees can provide a complete decay detection service to assist in maintaining a safe and healthy tree stock. Decay investigation is carried out in accordance with industry best practice using the latest diagnostic equipment and techniques utilising our state-of-the-art equipment.
The extent of decay is normally examined following a full Visual Tree Assessment and may include one or more of the following techniques:
Percussion
The surface roots, buttress roots, trunk and main branches are lightly struck with a soft faced hammer (sounding). CBA Tree consultants are trained to recognise changes in pitch where decay or other defects occur. This technique is used as part of the initial assessment, is non-invasive and frequently identifies areas requiring a more thorough and detailed inspection.
Decay Detection
The mirco drill records the drilling pressure required to push the probe into the wood. Where decay, a cavity or other defect is present there is a significant reduction in drilling resistance. CBA Trees has recently purchased the latest microdrill (IML Resi PD-400 Microdrill) to assist with decay detection and to assess the internal condition of a tree. It is versatile and can be used to investigate all parts of a tree.
Tree Management Plan
CBA Trees undertake woodland surveys for reasons of safety, amenity and conservation improvement. All surveys and plans are designed to meet the clients’ management objectives or to comply with requirements of any planning conditions.
