Ensuring Roadside Safety: Safely Removing an Ash Tree for a Local Landowner
At Thompson Tree Services, we take pride in our commitment to ensuring the safety of our local communities. Our recent project for a local landowner stands as a testament to this dedication. Referred to us by another satisfied client, the landowner contacted us after a large branch from an ash tree fell, blocking a road. Once this immediate issue was sorted, thought went into assessing and reducing the risk for this landowner.
The Importance of Addressing Roadside Trees:
Roadside trees can offer aesthetic value and shade to local streets, but they also come with their fair share of responsibilities. Trees adjacent to significant targets, such as roads, need regular inspection and appropriate maintenance to prevent hazards such as falling branches or whole tree failure. We encourage proactively managing trees in such locations.
Assessing Health and Safety Risks Posed by Trees:
Upon inspection, it became clear that the ash tree was at risk of further failure. Ash trees have been facing an increasing threat from Ash Dieback, a disease caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. This disease weakens the trees' structure, making them susceptible to branch failure or even whole tree failure. With the potential for more branches to fall and further endanger road users, the decision was made to remove the ash tree entirely to mitigate the risk.
To read more about Ash Dieback click this link to our Ash Dieback service page.
Arboricultural Safe Working Methods:
Safety is paramount in all our operations. Climbing the unstable ash tree would have put our arborists at risk and was not an option. Instead, we utilised a Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP) to dismantle the tree.
Our Methodology:
- Thorough Evaluation: Our experienced team inspected and assessed the condition of the ash tree and this evaluation informed our decision to remove the tree.
- Safe Equipment Use: The use of a MEWP eliminated the need for climbing, reducing risks associated with working at height.
- Controlled Dismantling: The tree was methodically dismantled from top to bottom, with each section carefully lowered to the ground to prevent damage to surrounding areas and to ensure the safety of the team.
- Efficient Removal: Once the tree was safely dismantled, we efficiently removed all arisings using our Avant loader and Forst woodchipper, leaving the area clean and free from any hazards.
Are you a landowner with roadside trees?
At Thompson Tree Services, we prioritise the safety of our communities and our team members. The removal of the ash tree for the local landowner highlighted the potential dangers posed by roadside trees, particularly those affected by diseases like Ash Dieback. Our utilisation of the MEWP showcased our commitment to adopting safe and efficient practices to achieve excellent results.
If you're a landowner with concerns about roadside trees or tree health, please, contact us. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.
