The correct way to cut down a tree

Press, 12 June 1987, Page 18

The correct way to cut down a tree

The Accident Compensation Corporation outlines six correct steps in cutting down a tree. 1. Check that the direction the tree will fall is clear of obstructions. 2. Before starting to cut, make sure that all growth is out of the way and a clear emergency path is available.

3. Remove all branches up to shoulder height and clear them away from the emergency exit. 4. The first cut should be made at about 45 degrees to the horizontal, at right angles to the direction of the fall (on the side of the tree which you would like to fall to the ground), and to a depth of

one third the diameter of the tree. , 5.. The second cut is horizontal and below the first, making sure both cuts meet perfectly. A large wedge has now been taken out of the side of the tree which will fall to the ground. There should be no overlap. 6. The third or “backcut” is also made horizontally on the opposite side of the tree and about scm to 6cm above the scarf formed by the other two cuts. If all cuts

are made correctly, there will be a section called “holding wood” in the centre of the tree between the two cuts. This holding wood should be cut through (from the opposite side to which the tree is to fall) only after all the limbing has been completed. If all the cuts have beenmade correctly, the tree will fall in the planned direction with minimum movement at the cutting area. - ' .