Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:57 AM AWST

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Trim trees using a pole saw

Trim trees using a pole saw

Unit of competency
National Code
FWPCOT3301
State Code
OCR75
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
04/12/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
07/04/2021
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
07/04/2021
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use a fuel or battery powered pole saw to trim tree branches within safe height and angle limits.The unit applies to individuals who operate pole saws to trim tree branches as part of arboriculture, forestry, agriculture, conservation and land management, local government, emergency services and other government agency operations. All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for trimming
  • 1.1 Determine job requirements from work order or instruction and, where required, seek clarification from appropriate personnel
  • 1.2 Confirm safety and environmental requirements for the task according to workplace procedures
  • 1.3 Identify, assess and take actions to mitigate risks and hazards associated with using pole saw to trim branches
  • 1.4 Plan trimming activities according to workplace procedures
  • 1.5 Consult with team members and other appropriate personnel to ensure that work is coordinated effectively with others in the workplace
  • 1.6 Obtain pole saw and other support equipment needed for the work
  • 1.7 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment
  • 1.8 Conduct pre-start-up checks of pole saw to determine serviceability according to manufacturer instructions
2. Assess trees
  • 2.1 Identify and assess tree type, location and stability for safe working conditions
  • 2.2 Plan trim of tree according to workplace procedures and environmental conditions
  • 2.3 Identify trees unsafe to be trimmed, and refer to supervisor
  • 2.4 Identify hazards in immediate vicinity of the tree to be trimmed, and refer to supervisor
  • 2.5 Determine whether the height of branches to be trimmed is within safe reach and safe working angle when using the pole saw
  • 2.6 Establish general falling direction of branches to be trimmed, and identify clear escape routes
3. Trim trees
  • 3.1 Trim accessible branches within safe height and angle limits according to work order or instructions and manufacturer recommendations
  • 3.2 Monitor location and movement of people in work area to ensure work site is safe
  • 3.3 Undertake sequence of cuts to trim tree branches
  • 3.4 Operate pole saw according to workplace procedures and manufacturer instructions, adjusting technique in response to condition of the tree
  • 3.5 Identify unexpected tree characteristics during trimming operations, and review tree assessment if required
  • 3.6 Complete cutting once initiated to minimise splitting
  • 3.7 Clear cut branches from the site according to workplace procedures and environmental requirements
4. Conduct operator maintenance
  • 4.1 Follow workplace safety procedures and manufacturer instructions to lock out equipment
  • 4.2 Inspect condition of pole saw and other equipment on completion of trimming activities
  • 4.3 Clear pole saw of dust, shavings and debris, and check for serviceability
  • 4.4 Remove, sharpen, adjust or replace chain and other components according to manufacturer recommendations
  • 4.5 Recycle, re-use or dispose of blunt or damaged chain and other components according to workplace procedures and environmental requirements
  • 4.6 Record and report equipment faults and maintenance activity
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
AXL25 FWPCOT3238 Operate a pole saw Unit of competency