Professional Tree Survey Inspection

Prospective trainees should be experienced and qualified arboriculturists with an in-depth knowledge of plant and arboricultural science, including a thorough knowledge of wood-decaying fungi, identification and interpretation of signs and symptoms of ill health and structural failure across a wide range of tree species and circumstances. They should be thoroughly experienced in carrying out tree inspection and survey. A minimum arboricultural qualification at level three or equivalent, plus five years experience in carrying out tree survey and inspection, is expected. This course is assessed during the course, either by written test, practical demonstration or oral questioning.

Course Overview

This in depth 3-day course will enable all successful candidates to recognise the role of the tree inspector in risk management and identify the legal framework in the context of statute and common law that affect tree inspection and the duties and liabilities of the owner, manager and inspector. To achieve this they will summarise how a tree system functions, what constitutes a safe tree and know that energy is required to keep the tree in a healthy/safe state. Also it is necessary for them to adopt a systematic and consistent methodology for carrying out visual tree inspection at an advanced level with the aid of binoculars, mallet and probe and from here collect data out in the field in accordance with the inspection instructions (having determined the scope and limitations) using a suitable format. (For this course a written survey template with appropriate headings will be used). Candidate will recognise a range of observable mechanical and biological defects as seen in trees and confirm by the use of textbooks where necessary and identify a range of commonly seen pests, diseases and disorders that affect tree safety, confirm their identity by the use of textbooks, where necessary, and state the arboricultural significance of finding them in the field. They will state the appropriate control/remedial measures required to eliminate or reduce risks identified in the inspection process to an acceptable level. Determine when an aerial inspection is required, also if pro-active management recommendations can be made which may eliminate future defects from forming. The candidate will need to prioritise the necessary tree/management works with time scales based on a broad category of risk assessment and identify when it is appropriate to recommend the use of decay detecting or measuring equipment, based on a basic knowledge of the working principles of commonly available equipment. They must understand that a balance between the remedial measure opted for and the range of benefits/values that a tree may have requires special attention e.g. amenity, wildlife, historical, veteran, rarity and public access.

Duration: 3 days

Costs including VAT and Registrations: POA