Challenges:

The discovery of extensive decay within the lime trees presented a serious safety concern. The compromised structural integrity of the trees posed a high risk to nearby properties and the public, necessitating their removal. However, the trees’ protected status under a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) required us to obtain permission from the local authority. Additionally, ensuring the safety of our team while removing the unstable trees was a critical challenge.

Result:

After documenting the evidence of decay and hollowing, we consulted with the local authority tree officer. Given the substantial risk to property and public safety, the officer agreed that the removal of the trees was necessary. Permission was granted to proceed with the removal in the interest of safety.

To minimise risk to our climbers and ensure a controlled removal process, we decided to use a tracked Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP). This equipment allowed us to safely access and dismantle the trees without having to rely on traditional climbing techniques, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

The use of the tracked MEWP enabled our team to remove the trees efficiently and safely, with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. By adapting our approach and employing advanced machinery, we successfully mitigated the risks associated with the decayed lime trees, ensuring the safety of our team, the public, and nearby properties.

Challenges:

On the first day of climbing, something felt off with the movement of the trees. The owner of the garage informed us that during recent construction work for the nearby houses, an excavator had removed all the roots on one side of the trees. This significant root damage compromised the stability of the trees, making traditional climbing and rigging techniques highly risky. The presence of the car garage and surrounding properties further complicated the situation, necessitating a careful reassessment of our approach to ensure safety.

Result:

Upon receiving the new information, we conducted a thorough risk assessment and determined that having climbers rig the tops out of the trees was too dangerous. With only half of the root plates intact, there was an unacceptable risk of tree failure, which could endanger both property and life.

To mitigate these risks, we arranged for a grapple saw to be brought on site. This specialised equipment allowed us to remove the trees safely without requiring climbers to ascend them. The grapple saw provided greater control and precision, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safe removal of the compromised trees.

By adapting our approach and utilising the grapple saw, we successfully completed the project while maintaining the highest safety standards. The use of advanced machinery not only ensured the safety of our team but also minimised disruption to the surrounding properties, delivering a satisfactory outcome for all parties involved.