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NPTC - tree climbing and aerial rescue training - SK053

Course overview 

This course is designed for Lancashire County Council employees, who, during their daily duties are required to use tree climbing and aerial rescue equipment, due to the nature of this course group sizes are restricted to a maximum of 3 people. 

Course aim 

This course has been developed to ensure that Lancashire County Council employees who are required to use tree climbing and aerial rescue equipment are aware of the legal implications, Lancashire County Council policies and procedures and hazards associated with using tree climbing aerial rescue equipment. 

Learning objectives and equipment required 

  • Provide information on the legal responsibilities Lancashire County Council polices and procedures and risk assessments

  • Safety helmet with chin strap (rock climbing/mountaineering type helmets are required) – equivalent to safety standard EN12492

  • Pair of work gloves - comfortable and close fitting are advised 

  • Chainsaw boots – to standard EN345/2 and bearing a shield depicting a chainsaw to show compliance with EN381/3  

  • Or boot offering good ankle support and a firm grip may also be utilised. 

  • Wet weather clothing 

  • Sit harness or full body harness – prEN813 / BSEN361 respectively 

  • Arborists climbing line, 10mm diameter minimum. Nylon or polyester BS4928 or low stretch ropes for work positioning prEN1891 

  • Prussik loops, strops and split tails of same construction and standards as lifeline 

  • Minimum of five, spring-loaded, self-locking gate karabiners, requiring at least three distinct movements to open it (three-way action). 

  • 60cm sewn tape sling. 

  • Sharp knife with retractable blade 

  • Handsaw, complete with scabbard 

  • Climbers / spikes and associated fliplines / strops 

Learning outcomes 

  • Create a safe working environment and compliance with legislation and Lancashire County Council polices /procedures

  • Understand the importance of carrying out pre-use checks on all `Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue` equipment and any related hazards when equipment is faulty/defective

  • Competency in being able to demonstrate the correct pre-use checks and operate safely in the workplace

  • Reducing risk of injury to operator and third parties and equipment damage prevention

NB. If you are providing facilities or equipment, please ensure that the requirements under the health and safety at work Act 1974 and other relevant regulations are met.  

Learning methods 

A range of teaching and learning methods including presentation and demonstration will be used with a focus on individual and group participation. 

 Course duration 

 7 hours excluding any breaks 

 3 places maximum 

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