Operatives need to be confident operating and maintaining this long-reach cutting tool in order to minimise the risk of accidents. This training course is ideal for those working in a number of industries, from agriculture to conservation and forestry.
They will learn about the health and safety requirements and how to maintain the machinery. Pre-cutting tests will be explained before they move on to practical work.
By the end of the course learners will be able to:
- Complete basic environmental checks prior to work operations
- Identify the necessary personal protective equipment required, report on its condition and locate standard markings
- Identify the health and safety features required on a pruning saw
- Identify faults and defects on a pruning saw and cutting equipment and decide which the operator can remedy and which require a service engineer’s attention
- Carry out correctly all routine maintenance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction book and/or the Lantra Awards workbook
- Prepare the pruning saw for use with the correct fuel/oil mix and chain lubrication
- Start the pruning saw for use with the correct fuel/oil mix and saw chain lubrication
- Carry out pre-cutting safety tests and state the procedures if the pruning saw fails these tests
- State the possible hazards/risks when carrying out maintenance or operational tasks and complete a risk assessment
- Assess and explain the terms ‘tension’ and ‘compression’ in timber
- Adopt safe procedures to remove a trapped guide bar
- Use correct pruning methods
- Clear the pruned branches in a safe manner
- Organise site safety and state the procedures required.
Note: There is a physical element to this course. As a result, a minimum level of fitness is an essential requirement.
This is an assessed course. Upon successful completion learners will receive a Lantra Awards Certificate of Competence.
