Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:07 PM AWST

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Perform pruning operations

Perform pruning operations

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCARB316
State Code
OBV46
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
26/08/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
13/11/2020
Field of Education
050301 - Horticulture
Original Release Date
13/11/2020
Nominal Hours
70
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to perform corrective and remedial pruning operations to trees either from the ground or whilst working at height. The unit applies to individuals who work in arboriculture under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources and for solving problems.The arboriculture industry requires that all pruning operations work is undertaken according to preferred industry practices (as outlined in the Companion Volume).Legislation, regulations and by-laws relating to the treatment and removal of trees apply in some states and territories.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for pruning operations
  • 1.1 Receive and confirm instructions with supervisor
  • 1.2 Confirm access to site and location of trees and work zones
  • 1.3 Determine type, extent and limit of pruning work in accordance with specifications, scope of works and client brief
  • 1.4 Undertake a site-specific job safety analysis (JSA) and record and implement site-specific control measures
  • 1.5 Communicate with work team using agreed methods according to works undertaken and site and environmental conditions
2. Prepare tools, equipment and work environment
  • 2.1 Select tools and equipment for pruning work
  • 2.2 Consider access and impact of selected pruning tools and equipment on tree
  • 2.3 Carry out pre-operational and safety checks on pruning tools and equipment
  • 2.4 Select, check and use personal protective equipment
  • 2.5 Disinfect pruning equipment during tree work according to hygiene and biosecurity procedures and tree assessment outcomes
  • 2.6 Implement workplace health, safety, site, environmental and traffic control measures according to JSA
3. Determine tree parts to be removed and plan pruning operations
  • 3.1 Investigate tree canopy shape, structure and defects to determine pruning plan
  • 3.2 Assess tree structure for stem co-dominance and branch attachment to determine options for pruning cut procedure
  • 3.3 Identify tree part requiring removal and select pruning procedure and location of cut from identified pruning cut options
4. Perform pruning operations
  • 4.1 Prepare pruning equipment to ensure cuts are clean
  • 4.2 Use pruning tools to make pruning cuts according to industry standards and manufacturer operating instructions
  • 4.3 Make cuts from a secure body position with awareness of extant tree hazards
  • 4.4 Maintain awareness of power line proximity, safe approach distances and clearances
  • 4.5 Select pruning cuts for crown maintenance or crown modification according to scope of works
  • 4.6 Perform pre-cutting techniques to avoid splitting or tearing of the stem and bark
  • 4.7 Perform final cut according to the principles of compartmentalisation of decay in trees (CODIT) and current industry standards
  • 4.8 Ensure bark at edge of all pruning cuts remains firmly attached
5. Improve pruning quality
  • 5.1 Review previous pruning cuts to determine tree response to pruning activities
  • 5.2 Assess tree response to previous pruning methods and compare with current work practice
  • 5.3 Seek advice from consulting arborists on quality of current pruning work practice
  • 5.4 Identify substandard current pruning cuts and rectify according to advice
6. Complete pruning operations
  • 6.1 Drop or lower pruned material into designated drop zone
  • 6.2 Clean, maintain and store tools and equipment
  • 6.3 Collect and dispose of pruned material according to environmental procedures
  • 6.4 Maintain pruning records according to workplace procedures
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAR61 AHCARB303 Perform pruning operations Unit of competency