Training for Trees

As ever at Training for Trees we are following the example of the nature, reacting, adapting and evolving within a whole new world that is emerging.

As I am writing this, the pandemic continues and looks like it’s here to stay for the foreseeable future, borders open, borders In nature as with trees in particular every action causes a reaction and usually following on from natural disasters – such as fire, flood, pest and disease – after a while the reactive forces develop and adapt and you will begin to see signs of recovery everywhere in nature and the environment.

We need to follow the examples of trees and nature and develop some sound reactions to our actions, for example to practise social distancing and good hygiene practices, be responsible for our actions and consider our environment.

As I have always maintained, those of us that are lucky enough to be involved in the Arboricultural industry are usually well placed to react and adapt and usually end up being extremely busy in times of natural disasters as we are usually required to be in the thick of things – like storm clean-up – usually resulting in even more demand for qualified and competent operators in the rural industries both at the trade and the diploma levels.

The world is changing and instead of just having to be good at using dangerous machinery and lifting heavy things we now also have to be able to integrate with the digital revolution although, however we decide to integrate our world with digitisation, we will always need to have a plan to work safely in the practical environment.

I truly believe that although we can mechanise and digitalise many facets of our industry, there will always be a need for skilled manual labour.

We also need to be able to, “touch trees” as was the catchphrase used by the late and great Dr Alex Shigo. We have a huge responsibility to be responsible for our actions and the reactions that we can create within the course of our work.

“I truly believe that although we can mechanise and digitalise many facets of our industry, there will always be a need for skilled manual labour.”

The arboricultural industry has become well respected and established, and is recognised throughout the world as a highly sought after skilled trade and is also a major provider of employment.

Pruning

One of the biggest causes of action and reaction within trees is the result of pruning operations pruning work requires an essential skill set to be developed by operators and takes a lot of care and extensive understanding of how a tree works along with many hours of practice to perfect the required skills and ability to carry out high quality pruning work.

Most of you will be aware it is a legal requirement that any personal protective clothing, machinery tools and equipment used in the workplace conforms to the relevant Australian Standards, is fit for purpose, in good working order and well maintained.

When you complete a pruning job you are leaving your mark on every final cut also the canopy shape and form for all to see and, as trees are generally major structures, the finished work is highly visible and will be seen by a lot of people.

Careless or misguided pruning techniques cause irreversible damage to the subject tree in the form of scars along the branches, coat hanger like stubs, large flush cuts or wrongly angled branch collar pruning cuts which collectively cause future problems for the tree such as causing unnecessary stress and leaving the tree open to secondary infection and future problems.

Consideration must also be given to choosing the right time of year to carry out the works. As some species react adversely to being pruned at the wrong times, this can also affect flower/fruit production.

Generally any large scale pruning work is usually best carried out during the winter months when the trees are in their dormant stage.

Prior to commencing any pruning operation be aware of any legal and environmental restraints such as tree protection legislation and avoid disturbing any nesting birds or wildlife. Follow the guidance of industry standards.

Currently, the Australian standard that sets out the minimum requirements that are required to achieve correct pruning results is called AS4373 Pruning of amenity trees (2007).

When pruning tools are selected care should be taken to ensure they are sharp and that good quality hand tools such as hand saws, pole saws, secateurs and pruning shears that have a bypass action of the blades. Ensure all tools are selected and maintained correctly.

Always plan the sequence of operation and always consider the outcomes of your actions before cutting. As the old saying goes you can always take more off but you can’t put it back on!

Make sure that access methods into and around the tree are also considered as well as how the tree will look when the work is completed.

Ropes passing through unprotected branch crotches can cause major bark and cambium abrasion that may not be apparent until well after the pruning works are carried out. Also, spikes must not be used for accessing or working on trees that are being pruned.

“The secret of a good pruning job is to make sure that the finished work retains the natural form of the tree and it looks like you were never there.”

The tree to be pruned must be taken into consideration including factors such as the species, normal natural growth habits and shapes, its overall condition and structure, the reason for carrying out the pruning and the required outcome for the work.

Tools and equipment must be selected that are appropriate to the task and should be of good quality, clean, sharp and well maintained. Remember that the secret of a good pruning job is to make sure that the finished work retains the natural form of the tree and it looks like you were never there whilst achieving the aim of the pruning works overall.

Pruning works in some ways are a bit like going for a haircut, in most cases you just want to remove the bulk but don’t want to change the style and shape and you still want your friends to recognise you when it’s finished.

Good pruning should be carried out in the same fashion to reduce the size thin and shape endeavouring to achieve a smaller, neater version of what you started with.

Make sure that you are able to correctly identify the branch bark ridge and that the final cuts are made to the outside edge of the branch collar and that the branch is removed without damage, rips or splits to the surrounding bark and cambium layers.

Once you have decided on the need to prune, you should consider the fact that in most cases you are beginning a pruning regime as an ongoing project. You need to remember that pruning in some species causes vigorous regrowth throughout the canopy which, if not attended to on a regular basis, can result in branch failure due to weak attachment points.

The regrowth will also add to the density of the tree canopy and can cause a sail effect presenting greater wind resistance throughout the canopy which may contribute to limb or total tree failure in high winds.

Tree owners will need to be advised that future ongoing inspection, care and maintenance work will need to be carried out on a regular basis.

This will also ensure that you have regular contact with your clients as well as a supply of regular ongoing maintenance work.

Training Packages

Currently industry best practice and industry standards are based around industry training packages and units of competency.

The training packages contain a specific range of competency units and rules for completing a qualification, these training packages are managed under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and as explained in an earlier article range from level one to advanced diploma levels.

As a working Arborist, qualifications should be attained at a minimum of AQF level III to work unsupervised.

Making the effort and spending the time to study and achieve the relevant arboricultural qualifications will lead you on a lifelong journey in one of the most diverse industries I know and build you a skill base that once all the travel restrictions are lifted you will be able to use your skills anywhere in the world.

To be able to be considered a qualified person within the arboricultural industry the general requirements are that you will complete a period of training and assessment based in both the practical workplace environment and the classroom. The minimum industry requirement to enable you to be officially recognised as a qualified arborist is to attain the qualification AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture. This qualification is currently classified within Australian Standard definitions and accepted throughout Australia as the minimum industry standard requirement to be able to be considered as a trade level qualified working arborist.

The journey to achieve the Certificate III in arboriculture qualification currently involves the completion of 23 industry endorsed units of competency that have been designed according to industry requirements and composed engineered checked and industry approved.

Once you have achieved the Certificate III in Arboriculture or want to consolidate and recognise your industry experience, the next step would be to continue your progression within the arboricultural industry and to follow the pathway from trade level working arborist and take it to the next level by undertaking the AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

To achieve the Diploma of Arboriculture you will begin a journey that will see you develop and gain an intimate and considerable working tree knowledge, you will be educated through a combination of online and face-to-face training and assessment methods resulting in your successful completion of 10 nationally recognised industry endorsed units of competency that make up the Diploma of Arboriculture.

To consider and comply with the broad expectations of the arboriculture industry and the emphasis on training and standards and the requirements of the Diploma of Arboriculture our students follow a process that covers the following points:

• Introduction into the workings of a tree with its anatomy and physiology explained and explored. Specification and planting of new trees
• Introduction and overview of legislation and compliance requirements
• Extensive Visual tree assessment and risk management
• Disease and decay diagnosis and management
• Looking after trees on development sites

Preparation And Submission Of Quality Reports For Clients And Management

Achieving your Diploma will enable you to achieve recognition for one of the highest most useful and most recognised arboricultural qualifications within the arboricultural industry and enable you to progress in your career in arboriculture as a business owner, lead arborist, tree officer arboricultural manager or consulting arborist.

To all of the employers out there, remember new workers don’t grow on trees unfortunately, but if you want to have reliable professional staff you have to be prepared to invest in them.

As your workers trainees or apprentices are working their way through the training process they will steadily begin to repay your investment in their future by becoming more useful and able to operate more efficiently within your company.

If your newly qualified apprentice decides to leave and move on once they are qualified, then at least you will have had some return on your investment as they were becoming more useful to you while they were progressing with their training and, if you get the balance right, then there will always be upcoming apprentices that will keep the cycle flowing giving you access to staff that already know your business and systems that will continue to provide a return on the investment you have made in them.

“Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery, after all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business”.

“Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed”. Training for Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO).

We are completely independent and are not auspiced, attached to or operating underthe direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company.

This means we are personally able look after our students and employers at every step of their journey and beyond. “It has been proven that independent training and assessment increases staff retention safety awareness productivity and efficiency.”

Remember to schedule in regular refresher and update training sessions.

If you want to be officially classified as a qualified arborist you will need to complete the appropriate level of qualification:

• Tree worker or climbing Arborist AHC30816 Certificate III in arboriculture
• Consulting Arborist AHC50516 Diploma of arboriculture

“Safety Rules”

Check out your eligibility for funding. Enrol now for the next intake Certificate III Arboriculture and Diploma, chainsaw courses (all levels), EWP Licence, First Aid, Working at heights, Chipper, Polesaw and AC/DC.

Contact us for your qualifications, short courses VOC, RPL and refresher training. Train with us and leaf qualified. See our website www.trainingfortrees.com.au for details or email info@trainingfortrees.com.au

During the lockdown we have seen the nature strive. As arborists what can we do to help the nature and the environment recover and regenerate?

What a year this is turning out to be with the pandemic and the new terminology of these “unprecedented times” and “flattening the curve!”

As we are the lucky ones that are able to look around us and take stock /reschedule our lives, we see many examples of people and nature rebuilding, repairing and striving to survive.

As ever at TFT we are following the course of nature and seem to be forever reacting and evolving within a whole new world.

So as we all begin to escape our safe isolation restrictions and anxiously await the result of large gatherings and hope for a lack of community transmission, we may well be on the way back to normality, although we don’t know yet when we will be able to call life normal again

Anyway, during the lockdown stay home time, it got me thinking that what really matters is that everyone should just work together and look after themselves and their families.

Looking around there are signs of recovery everywhere in nature and in the environment. The pollution is down because no one could go anywhere, everyone was working from home, no planes in the sky, maybe the air really is cleaner?

So what can we do as arborists to continue with helping nature out?

As far as the environment goes, perhaps we could consider developing an environmental policy and consider for example some of the following points:

• Ensure to analyse and recycle all waste from business operations
• Sort out office paper and kitchen waste into the correct bins each week
• Changing to LED energy saver lighting
• Using solar energy
• Specify and operate battery powered chainsaws hedgers and pole saws where possible
• Use hybrid machinery and vehicles as possible
• Do not leave truck or machinery engines idling unnecessarily when not working
• Use biodegradable oils for saws and hydraulic equipment
• Recycle all tree waste for mulch timber or firewood
• Ensure to consider all options before removing a tree such as can it be managed with sustainable arboricultural practices

Demand For Qualified And Competent Operators

One thing that our industry has in common with nature is that, historically in almost all disasters, it would seem that anyone working in the rural industries becomes even more in demand and that, along with the building trades and everyone that carries out manual or outdoor work, it would seem that it is almost business as usual which is resulting in even more demand for qualified and competent operators in rural industry, both at the trade and the diploma levels.

The world is changing. Instead of just having to be good at lifting heavy things, we now also have to be able to integrate with the digital revolution.

Making the effort and spending the time to study and achieve the relevant arboricultural qualifications will lead you on a lifelong journey in one of the most diverse industries I know and build you a skill base that, once all the travel restrictions are lifted, you will be able to use your skills anywhere in the world.

To be able to be recognised as a qualified person within the arboricultural industry the general requirements are that you will complete a course of training usually in the form of an apprenticeship.

The minimum requirement to be able to say you are a qualified arborist is to attain the qualification AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture. This qualification is currently classified within Australian Standard definitions and accepted throughout Australia as the minimum industry standard requirement to be able to be considered as a trade level qualified working arborist.

The journey to achieve the Certificate III in Arboriculture qualification involves the completion of 23 industry endorsed units of competency that have been designed according to industry requirements and composed engineered checked and industry approved.

Once you have achieved the Certificate III in Arboriculture or want to consolidate and recognise your industry experience, the next step would be to continue your progression within the arboricultural industry and to follow the pathway from trade level working arborist and take it to the next level by undertaking the AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

To achieve the Diploma of Arboriculture you will begin a journey that will see you develop and gain an intimate and considerable working tree knowledge, you will be educated through a combination of online and face to face training and assessment methods resulting in your successful completion of 10 nationally recognised industry endorsed units of competency that make up the Diploma of Arboriculture.

To consider and comply with the broad expectations of the arboriculture industry and the emphasis on training and standards and the requirements of the Diploma of Arboriculture, our students follow a process that covers the following points:

• Introduction into the workings of a tree with its anatomy and physiology explained and explored. Specification and planting of new trees
• Introduction and overview of legislation and compliance requirements
• Extensive Visual tree assessment and risk management
• Disease and decay diagnosis and management
• Looking after trees on development sites
• Preparation and submission of quality reports for clients and management

Achieving this qualification will enable you to demonstrate the highest arboricultural standards within the arboriculture industry such as business owner, lead arborist, tree officer arboricultural manager or consulting arborist.

A process for employers that we at TFT have been suggesting for several years now is proving to be so true regarding the almost everyday question we get from employers: “We urgently need a new qualified groundie climber or consulting arborist to join our operation”.

Remember, new workers don’t grow on trees unfortunately, but if you want to have reliable professional staff you have to be prepared to invest in them.

We at TFT recommend employing as many new recruits as you are able to support but bear in mind that apprenticeship supervision is recommended to be one qualified worker to one apprentice.

As your apprentice is working their way through the training process they will steadily begin to repay your investment in their future by becoming more useful and able to operate more efficiently within your company.

By the time they graduate they will probably go on to become your next lead climber, crew leader or manager and could also be helping to train your next apprentice to keep your company evolving.

If your apprentice decides to leave and move on once they are qualified, then at least you will have had some return on your investment, while they were employed with you and, if you get the balance right, then there will always be upcoming apprentices that will keep the cycle flowing giving you access to staff that already know your business and systems that will continue to provide a return on the investment you have made in them.

The Government has realised the skills shortage and the importance of our industry and there is considerable support available for organisations that are investing in and training their staff.

“Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery. After all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business”.

“Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed”.

Training for Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO). We are completely independent and are not auspiced attached to or operating under the direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company. This “Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery. After all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business”.

“Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed”.

Training for Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO). We are completely independent and are not auspiced attached to or operating under the direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company. This It has been proven that independent training and assessment increases staff retention safety awareness productivity and efficiency.

Remember to schedule in regular refresher and update training sessions.

If you want to be officially classified as a qualified arborist you will need to complete the appropriate level of qualification:

• Tree worker or climbing Arborist AHC30816 Certificate III in arboriculture
• Consulting Arborist AHC50516 Diploma of arboriculture

Check out your eligibility for funding.

“Safety Rules”

Enrol now for the next intake Certificate III Arboriculture and Diploma. Now booking chainsaw courses running regularly (all levels), EWP Licence, First Aid, Working at heights, Chipper Stump grinder Polesaw and AC/DC. Contact us for your qualifications, short courses VOC, RPL and refresher training. Train with us and leaf qualified.

See our website www.trainingfortrees.com.au for details or email info@trainingfortrees.com.au

As I write this, I realise that during the past fourteen years since I have been contributing to this magazine, Australia seems to have weathered one major event after another.

We have worked and evolved through the GFC, cyclones, floods, drought, fires and now we are in the middle of the COVID-19 world pandemic and working through yet another one in a hundred year event.

As well as the tragic loss of life and livelihoods of people throughout the world, demand and supply requirements have gone through an extra few years of pulpwood and rice supplies in the quest to provide society with its needs (hoarders!). We have seen selfless dedication of essential frontline workers and healthcare professionals as well as selfishness and greed within others.

As we, the lucky ones, are able to look around us and restock /reschedule our lives, we see many example

One thing that our industry has in common with nature is that in almost all disasters it would seem that anyone working in the rural industries becomes even more in demand. Along with the building trades and everyone that carries out manual or outdoor work, it would seem that it is almost business as usual, which is resulting in even operators in rural industry, both at the trade and the diploma levels.

It has proved my point yet again that, while working within the tree industry, you will always benefit from continuing learning and professional development through attaining and maintaining trade or diploma level qualifications, achieved through the VET sector (Vocational Education & Training). This is our Australian further education system that ensures nationally accredited competency-based training is developed with industry reference and focuses on providing practical skills for work.

At TFT we are busy with a full cohort of students, some who are graduating as trade and Diploma level arborists, and some who are just beginning the journey towards achieving their goals.

As ever we are following the course of nature and reacting and evolving to a whole new world due in some pts to the current pandemic and social distancing, but along with the wonders of modern technology – as well as reacting to the ever changing needs of our education system – we have been busy at TFT with a new task called “digitalisation”.

This means that, in addition to our face-to-face training abilities, the majority of our theory classes’ qualifications and RPL will now be able to be completed online.

Training Package

In Australia all industries serviced by the VET sector are assigned a specific training package. Each training package contains a range of competency units managed by the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) who set the national policy for regulated qualifications.

in the Australian education and training system, together with rules that specify how a particular qualification – for example the Certificate III in Arboriculture – is assembled, delivered and meets the requirements of the training package. The training package is compiled to set industry standards regarding assessment rules.

Training organisations must comply with standards that are set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) who are the national regulator for the vocational education and training (VET) sector.

Training packages are reviewed and managed through a series of organisations as explained below.

Australian Industry And Skills Committee (AISC)

This is a committee of industry leaders from across Australia who make decisions about what qualifications are needed and when.

Skills Service Organisations (SSOS)

Formally known as Industry Skills councils, SSO’s are organisations that develop the training packages that industry needs.

These groups are assigned to a range of industries and their job is to manage update and recommend how the training package is implemented.

The organisations consult with Industry and advisory groups to produce and set up individual units of competency as industry standard requirements.

In the older arboricultural Certificte III qualification, according to the rules, it was almost mandatory that, to be able to achieve a Certificate III in Arboriculture, trees had to be climbed using a rope and harness and this unfairly precluded some applicants who for example were working in the utility industry and trimming trees around power lines from an EWP (Elevated Work Platform) or those that will only carry out work from an EWP.

To facilitate these factors in a stream was added to the Certificate III to enable all at height work to be completed using an EWP.

A ground-based stream was also added for those who wish to be qualified in the Arb industry but have no need or desire to carry out work above ground.

So now it is possible to choose your option to become a qualified arborist at Certificate level, whether you access the trees with ropes or only work from a EWP or just want to be ground based. It’s a great opportunity and also important to make sure you choose the level that suits your needs and abilities. There are some that would argue that climbing trees is essential and that to be an arborist you must be a climber, but what about industry legends such as the likes of Dr Alex Shigo and Claus Mattheck? They didn’t climb trees but they changed and will forever influence our industry and the way we care for trees.

The world is changing. Instead of just having to be good at lifting heavy things we now have to be able to integrate with the digital revolution.

“Making the effort and spending the time to study and achieve the relevant arboricultural qualifications will lead you on a lifelong journey in one of the most diverse industries I know and build you a skill base that once all the travel restrictions are lifted you will be able to use your skills anywhere in the world”.

Refresher and VOC

Within the current WHS legislation there is a general obligation for persons in the workplace to act with diligence, which is a pretty open ended term, placing obligations on everyone while they are at work including employers the self-employed and employees with the general requirement to carry out their duties as responsible operators it is also a requirement that all workers are trained in their roles and deemed competent and current in their required skills.

One of the best ways to maintain current within industry would be to undertake refresher training to update the qualification or relevant unit of competency and receive an update certificate, sometimes referred to as a VOC or verification of competency.

Refresher / VOC assessment is generally carried out in a shorter time frame than a full training course. It consists of an overall assessment and general update of current skill levels which generally picks up and corrects any bad habits that may have crept in over time.

Take It To The Next Level

To be able to be recognised as a qualified person within the arboricultural industry the general requirements are that you will complete a course of training in the form of an apprenticeship and, while working in the industry, attending a training facility If you are more experienced, then you may consider supplying evidence to be able to undertake a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process to achieve the AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture.

This is the qualification (AQF3) that is currently classified within Australian Standard definitions and accepted throughout Australia as the minimum industry standard requirement to be able to be considered as a trade level qualified working arborist.

The journey to achieve the Certificate III in Arboriculture qualification involves the completion of 23 industry endorsed units of competency that have been designed according to industry requirements after being composed, engineered, checked and industry approved.

Once you have achieved the Certificate III in Arboriculture or want to consolidate and recognise your industry experience, the next step would be to continue your progression within the arboricultural industry and to follow the pathway from trade level working arborist and take it to the next level by undertaking the AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

To achieve the Diploma you will begin a journey that will see you develop and gain an intimate and considerable working tree knowledge, you will be educated through a combination of online and face to face training and assessment methods resulting in your successful completion of 10 nationally recognised industry endorsed units of competency that make up the Diploma.

Achieving this qualification will enable you to demonstrate the highest arboricultural standards within the arboriculture industry such as tree care business owner, lead arborist, tree officer, arboricultural manager or consulting arborist.

New Staff

We understand that within the tree industry staff are often quite transient and some employees are prone to move around a lot more than others, which results in employers always looking for new staff.

I well remember from my days as an employer this is not a favourite task for anyone who employs staff. Please don’t use that as a reason for not training any new staff though.

A process that we at TFT have been suggesting for several years now is proving to be so true regarding the almost everyday question we get from employers we urgently need “a new qualified groundie climber or consulting arborist to join our operation”. Remember, new workers don’t grow on trees unfortunately, but if you want to have reliable professional staff you have to be prepared to invest in them.

One of the best sources for new staff often overlooked is that some of the best new recruits could actually come from within your company where a current employee is encouraged and supported to step up to the plate and develop new skills while to some extent learning on the job and continuing to earn their keep at the same time.

When this process is coupled with the journey through the arboricultural Certificate III or the Diploma qualifications and you are prepared to work with your trainee and their training organisation the outcome is a well-rounded competent and qualified staff member that is a real asset to your business.

We at TFT recommend employing as many new recruits as you are able to support but bear in mind that apprenticeship supervision is recommended to be one qualified worker to one apprentice.

As your apprentice is working their way through the training process, they will steadily begin to repay your investment in their future by becoming more useful and able to operate more efficiently within your company.

By the time they graduate they will probably go on to become your next lead climber crew leader or manager and could also be helping to train your next apprentice to keep your company evolving.

If your apprentice decides to leave and move on once they are qualified, then at least you will have had some return on your investment, while they were employed with you and, if you get the balance right, then there will always be upcoming apprentices that will keep the cycle flowing, giving you access to staff that already know your business and systems that will continue to provide a return on the investment you have made in them.

The government have realised the skills shortage and the importance of our industry and there is considerable support available for organisations that are investing in and training their staff.

Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery, after all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business.

At TFT we believe the message is finally getting through regarding the importance of training and qualification and the benefits that it can bring to everyone including the trees. Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed. Training for Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO). We are completely independent and are not auspiced attached to or operating under the direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company.

“Nature is a wonderful mechanism and it will survive, and then it will thrive.”

This means we are personally able look after our students and employers at every step of their journey and beyond.

“It has been proven that independent training and assessment increases staff retention safety awareness productivity and efficiency.”

Remember to schedule in regular refresher and update training sessions. If you want to be officially classified as a qualified arborist you will need to complete the appropriate level of qualification;

• AHC30816 Certificate III in arboriculture Or
• AHC50516 Diploma of arboriculture

“Safety Rules”

Check out your eligibility for funding. Enrol now for the next intake Certificate III Arboriculture and Diploma. Now booking chainsaw courses running regularly (all levels), EWP Licence, First Aid, Working at heights, Chipper, Stump grinder, Pole saw and AC/DC. Contact us for your qualifications, short courses VOC, RPL and refresher training. Train with us and leaf qualified.

See our website www.trainingfortrees.com.au for details or email info@trainingfortrees.com.au

As I write this, we are finally seeing green again, after a year’s worth of rain fell in a matter of days – with heat, storms and humidity at record levels – no wonder everyone is looking forward to the winter.

At TFT we are busy with a full cohort of students, some who are graduating as trade and Diploma level arborists and some who are just beginning the journey towards achieving their goals.

Become a Good Climber

One of the commonest questions we get to our office is from individuals wanting to know what it takes to become a good climber. This is often almost echoed by the calls from employers who are either wishing to upskill their current climber or looking for a new one due to the current climber moving on to another employer.

What Is It That Makes A Good Tree Climber? Could An EWP Ever Take Over The Role Of The Climber?

Here are a few things that come to mind regarding the general requirements industry have for a tree climber role:

• Must be qualified as an arborist at least to Certificate III in Arboriculture
• Must be a safe operator with a good WHS knowledge and must ensure everyone will like working with them in the crew

Can They Drive A Truck And Reverse A Chipper? Can They Also Fix And Maintain The Truck And Chipper?

• Must have a current working knowledge of all arboricultural machinery equipment and processes including the following areas:
• PPE
• Ropes and rigging equipment
• Safe operation and maintenance of stump grinders, loaders, chippers, chainsaws and any other arboricultural-related equipment
• Must be able to run a crew and organise work sites
• General life skills are required
• Will be required to identify trees correctly
• Must communicate well with clients
• Demonstrate knowledge in all aspects of the arboricultural industry
• Must have the ability to maintain paperwork in good order
• Would be good if they have good computer and business technology skills
• Must be physically fit and able to carry out the works required?

There is probably a lot more that I could add here but I think you would have the general idea that requirements for a climbing arborist are quite demanding and climbing arborists often have to work under immense pressure and, even though they have excellent equipment and systems to access and work in trees, strains, sprains, musculoskeletal disorders, long term injuries and bodies wearing out are often common issues.

Use of EWPs

EWP or climber, do we need to climb at work anymore? What are some of the pros and cons regarding the use of an EWP?

Pros

• No sick days, no heatstroke, no complaining
• Don’t need a rescue climber on site
• Won’t need to take long weekends and holidays
• Reduces fatigue and easier on the body
• Can be more suited to the older climbers
• Good for any climber to give them a break
• Machines are tested and load rated to a safe working load and contain many sensors and micro switches for operator protection
• Generally the safety devices fitted as standard won’t allow operation unless the machine is correctly set up and on a stable base

Cons

• Purchase price can be akin to that of a small house or a really nice Ute
• Maintenance and service costs add up over time including 10-year rebuilds and retirement costs
• Safety features are all good as long as they don’t go wrong!
• If ground conditions are not suitable for supporting the machine, it can overturn
• Some sites are just not able to be accessed using an EWP
• You always need a higher reaching machine no matter how far your current one is able to reach

TFT believes that in our industry climbing arborists will always be required for areas with no access for machinery and there will always be a need for specialised climbing tree work experts and canopy explorers carrying out scientific studies and the like.

Continuing innovation and development could see the arb industry having access to EWP machines that will enable access to all areas as they say and will maybe equal or even negate the role of the average climbing arborist over time.

“The modern world of arboriculture is a far cry from the days that we just felt lucky to be doing a job using big, noisy equipment and lifting heavy things.

Making the effort and spending the time to study and achieve the relevant arboricultural qualifications will lead you on a lifelong journey in one of the most diverse industries I know and build you a skill base that you can use anywhere in the world.”

Be WHS Compliant

Within the current WHS legislation there is a general obligation for persons in the workplace to act with diligence which is a pretty open ended term placing obligations on everyone, while they are at work, including employers the self-employed and employees with the general requirement to carry out their duties as responsible operators. It is also a requirement that all workers are trained in their roles and deemed competent and current in their required skills.

Penalties for non-compliance with the work health and safety act can be quite severe so you must maintain compliance and currency of your trade qualifications.

It’s really important to update your certification levels regularly over time as new techniques and standards are developed and updated fairly often it is recommended that regular updates are carried out and documented.

“TFT believes that in our industry climbing arborists will always be required for areas with no access for machinery.”

One of the best ways to maintain currency is to undertake a refresher update for the relevant unit of competency and receive an update certificate. Refreshers are generally carried out in a shorter time frame than a full training course consisting of an assessment and update of current skill levels which generally picks up and corrects any bad habits that may have crept in over time. To be able to be recognised as a qualified person within the arboricultural industry the general requirements are that you will complete an apprenticeship training or RPL process to achieve the AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture, which is currently accepted as the minimum industry standard requirement to be able to be considered as a trade level qualified working arborist.

Tree keepers are becoming better educated and are demanding quality work to be carried out to at least the requirements of Australian standards and increasingly are asking to see evidence of qualifications, including their currency and the subject list of units undertaken, as well as proof of adequate insurance, prior to engaging a contractor.

The pathway to achieve the Certificate III in Arboriculture qualification involves the completion of 23 industry endorsed units of competency that have been engineered approved and nationally mandated by industry working groups and government funded skills organisations.

Once you Complete the Certificate III in Arboriculture Why Not Take the Next Step and Follow the Pathway to the Diploma of Arboriculture

Once you have achieved the Certificate III in Arboriculture or want to consolidate and recognise your industry experience, the next step is to continue to progress within the arboricultural industry and to follow the pathway from trade level working arborist and take it to the next level by undertaking the AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

To achieve the Diploma you will begin a journey that will see you develop and gain an intimate and considerable working tree knowledge. You will be educated through face-to-face training and assessment, resulting in the completion of the 10 nationally recognised industry endorsed units of competency making up the Diploma that have been engineered approved and nationally mandated by industry working groups and government funded skills organisations to ensure that achieving this qualification will enable you to operate with the highest standards with the required skills as a Business owner, lead arborist, tree officer arboricultural manager or consulting arborist in the arboricultural industry.

At TFT we believe the message is finally getting through regarding the importance of training and qualification and the benefits that it can bring to everyone including the trees. We are also so very proud that, through high quality education and training, and working within the national training package, we are seeing extremely high standards of arboricultural prognosis and tree care.

New Workers

A tried and tested process that we at TFT have been suggesting for several years now is proving to be so true regarding the almost everyday question we get from employers which is: “We need a new groundie climber or consulting arborist to join our operation”

New workers don’t grow on trees unfortunately, but if you want to have reliable professional staff you have to be prepared to invest in them.

The government have realised the skills shortage and the importance of our industry and there is considerable support available for organisations that are investing in and training their staff.

One of the best sources for new staff often overlooked is that some of the best new recruits could actually come from within your company, where a current employee is encouraged and supported to step up to the plate and develop new skills, while to some extent learning on the job and continuing to earn their keep at the same time.

When this process is coupled with the journey through the arboricultural Certificate III or the Diploma qualifications and you are prepared to work with your trainee and their training organisation, the outcome is a well-rounded competent and qualified staff member that is a real asset to your business.

We at TFT recommend employing as many new recruits as you are able to support but bear in mind that apprenticeship supervision is recommended to be one qualified worker to one apprentice.

Various incentives are available to assist employers and students that are eligible.

As your apprentice is working their way through the training process they will steadily begin to repay your investment in their future by becoming more useful and able to operate more efficiently within your company.

By the time they graduate they will probably go on to become your next lead climber crew leader or manager and could also be helping to train your next apprentice to keep your company evolving.

If your apprentice decides to leave and move on once they are qualified, then at least you will have had some return on your investment while they were employed with you and if you get the balance right then there will always be upcoming apprentices that will keep the cycle flowing giving you access to staff that already know your business and systems that will continue to provide a return on the investment you have made in them.

Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery. After all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business.

Training at TFT

At TFT we conduct the majority of our training and assessment at our modern training centre with access to in house trainer assessors, we supply all the required up to date tools equipment, local worksites and resources.

We take our students on a journey which begins with their enrolment and continues through the individual units of competency that collectively make up the qualification with regular face to face classroom sessions and issuing of assignments to be completed in the workplace. We work with apprentices, the self-employed, persons looking for a career change and employers to ensure students are able to progress efficiently and meet the volume of learning and performance requirements of the relevant qualifications.

“Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed.”

Training for Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO). We are completely independent and are not auspiced, attached to or operating under the direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company. This means we are personally able look  after our students and employers at  every step of their journey and beyond.

It has been proven that independent training and assessment increases staff retention safety awareness productivity and efficiency.

Remember to schedule in regular refresher and update training sessions. If you want to be officially classified as a qualified arborist you will need to complete the appropriate level of qualification:

• AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture or
• AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

“Safety Rules”

Check out your eligibility for funding. Enrol now for the next intake Certificate III Arboriculture and Diploma. Now booking chainsaw courses running regularly (all levels), EWP Licence, First Aid, Working at heights, Chipper, Stump grinder, Pole saw and AC/DC. Contact us for your qualifications, short courses VOC, RPL and refresher training. Train with us and leaf qualified.

See our website www.trainingfortrees.com.au for details or email info@trainingfortrees.com.au

At TFT we are busy with a full cohort of students some who are graduating as trade and Diploma level arborists and some who are just beginning their journey.

Any tree particularly if it is lucky enough to be under the supervision of a TFT qualified arborist will be a very happy tree indeed. Hopefully after last month’s edition you will have had a chance to consider your workplace chipper operations and safety practices and that you continue to realise that you are part of a profession which is a bit like a family, made up from some of the most wonderful individuals involved in the arboricultural industry the world over, that generally have one thing in common – regardless of any conflicting values and opinions which often result in the experts not always agreeing with each other – the common factor is that they all care about trees.

Stump Grinder Training And Certification

The Subject that I would like to share with you for this issue involves the requirements for Stump Grinder training and certification.

AHCARB206 Operate and Maintain Stump Grinding Machines is a nationally recognised industry endorsed unit of competency that covers use of these machines.

Operators that are trained and certificated will have a greater understanding in the operation and maintenance of these machines and the end result will be seen in the standard of maintenance and operation.

There have been several serious accidents that have occurred over the past few years with these machines and training is often minimal or just not completed by operators, considering the high risk nature of these machines we feel comprehensive training and assessment for operators is essential.

I have included a few points for consideration regarding stump grinder maintenance and operation, however this is not intended to be used as a substitute for training and assessment.

“It’s important to update your certification over time as techniques and industry standards are often updated.”

Before attempting maintenance and operation of any machine ensure that you carry out a risk assessment and implement any relevant control measures.

Make sure to read and understand the operator’s manual.

Operation

There should be a plan of operation agreed upon and most importantly communicated to all personnel on site.

Take note of any work site issues, emergency procedures, the surroundings, exclusion zones, public access roads and any other issues that may be raised during the on site assessment.

• Check for the proximity of buildings and obstructions and set out an exclusion zone around the work area
• Flying debris can travel in excess of 15m and ricochet off solid objects such as boundary walls and fences so you need to plan for the unexpected suitable screens should be used to contain flying debris
• Check to see if there are any underground services present, ask the client or check out the local phone book for the dial before you dig number if you are unsure
• Inspect the stumps to be removed for any stones or metal that may be embedded in them and remove it prior to grinding if possible
• When loading and unloading the machine from a truck or trailer ensure that ramps of the correct load bearing capacity and of a sufficient length to produce an acceptable angle for loading / unloading that are securely attached to the truck or trailer are used
• Make sure that the machine can be operated on level ground that is firm enough to support its weight
• Ensure to operate at the correct engine or PTO speed
• If the stump is on a slope check out the machine specification and capabilities. (the machine manual will advise on maximum angles of operation)
• Ensure correct fitment or deployment of stabilisers or extra width axles for the machine.

Q.Do Stump Grinder Operators Need A Ticket?

A: WHS states that persons must be adequately trained a nationally recognised statement of attainment AHCARB206 Operate and maintain stump grinding machines would ensure to demonstrate that approved training and assessment has been carried out.

It’s important to update your certification over time as techniques and industry standards are often updated. It is recommended that regular updates are carried out and documented.

One of the best ways to maintain currency is to undertake a refresher update for the relevant unit of competency and receive an update certificate.

Refreshers are generally carried out in a shorter time frame than a full training course consisting of an assessment and update of current skill levels which generally picks up and corrects any bad habits that may have crept in over time.

Regular refresher and update training and assessment programs to suit relevant skills as required are offered by us at Training For Trees.

The modern world of arboriculture is a far cry from the days that we just felt lucky to be doing a job using big noisy equipment and lifting heavy things.

Making the effort and spending the time to study and achieve the relevant arboricultural qualifications will lead you on a lifelong journey in one of the most diverse industries I know and build you a skill base that you can use anywhere in the world.

AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture

To be able to work as a qualified person within the arboricultural industry the general requirements are that you will complete an apprenticeship training or RPL process to achieve the AHC30816 Certificate III in Arboriculture which is currently accepted as the minimum industry standard requirement to be able to be considered as a trade level qualified working arborist.

Tree keepers are becoming better educated and are demanding quality work to be carried out to at least the requirements of Australian standards and increasingly are asking to see evidence of qualifications including their currency and the subject list of units undertaken as well as proof of adequate insurance prior to engaging a contractor. a requirement that all workers are trained in their roles and deemed competent and current in their required skills.

The pathway to achieve the Certificate in Arboriculture qualification involves the completion of 23 industry endorsed units of competency that have been engineered approved and nationally mandated by industry working groups and government funded skills organisations.

Take the next step and follow the pathway to the Diploma of Arboriculture

Once you have achieved the Certificate in Arboriculture or want to consolidate and recognise your industry experience, the next step is to continue to progress within the arboricultural industry and to follow the pathway from trade level working arborist and take it to the next level by undertaking the AHC50516 Diploma of Arboriculture.

To achieve the Diploma you will begin a journey that will see you develop and gain an intimate and considerable working tree knowledge, you will be educated through face-to-face training and assessment, resulting in the completion of the10 nationally recognised industry endorsed units of competency making up the Diploma that

Within the current OHS legislation there is a general obligation for persons in the workplace to act with due diligence, which is a pretty open ended term, placing obligations on everyone while they are at work, including employers, the self-employed and employees, with the general requirement to carry out their duties as responsible operators. It is also  have been engineered, approved and nationally mandated by industry working groups and government funded skills organisations to ensure that achieving this qualification will enable you to operate with the highest standards with the required skills as a Business owner, lead arborist, tree officer arboricultural manager or consulting arborist in the arboricultural industry.

We are also so very proud that through high quality education and training and working within the national training package that we are seeing extremely high standards of arboricultural prognosis and tree care.

At TFT we believe the message is finally getting through regarding the importance of training and qualification and the benefits that it can bring to everyone including the trees.

A tried and tested process that we at TFT have been suggesting for several years now is proving to be so true regarding the almost everyday question we get from employers which is:

“We need a new groundie climber or consulting arborist to join our operation.”

New workers don’t grow on trees unfortunately but if you want to have reliable professional staff you have to be prepared to invest in them.

The government have realised the skills shortage and the importance of our industry and there is considerable support for organisations that are investing in and training their staff.

Penalties for non-compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act can be quite severe so you must maintain compliance and currency.

Can you demonstrate evidence of recent staff training or updating within your company?

Do you have a safety policy that includes safe work method statements, risk assessment and machinery checklists?

Have staff members attended recent courses workshops or verification of competency (VOC) sessions?

Are your qualifications and licences up to date?

One of the best sources for new staff often overlooked is that some of the best new recruits could actually come from within your company where a current employee is encouraged and supported to step up to the plate and develop new skills while to some extent learning on the job and continuing to earn their keep at the same time. When this process is coupled with the journey through the arboricultural Certificate III or the Diploma qualifications and you are prepared to work with your trainee and their training organisation the outcome is a well-rounded competent and qualified staff member that is a real asset to your business.

We at TFT recommend employing as many new recruits as you are able to support but bear in mind that apprenticeship supervision is recommended to be one qualified worker to one apprentice.

Various incentives are available to assist employers and students that are eligible. Training in general could tend to slow things on the work site down a little initially, although as your apprentice makes progress through the training process, they will steadily begin to repay your investment in their future by becoming more useful and able to operate more efficiently within your company.

By the time they graduate they will probably go on to become your next lead climber crew leader or manager and could also be helping to train your next apprentice to keep your company evolving. If your apprentice decides to leave and move on once they are qualified then at least you will have had some return on your investment while they were employed with you and if you get the balance right then there will always be upcoming apprentices that will keep the cycle flowing giving you access to staff that already know your business and systems that will continue to provide a return on the investment you have made in them.

Training is as important as the servicing of vehicles and machinery. After all, workers are the machinery that you run and need to maintain to enable the smooth operation of your business.

At TFT we conduct the majority of our training and assessment at our modern training centre with access to in-house trainer assessors, we supply all the required up to date tools equipment, local worksites and resources.

We take our students on a journey which begins with their enrolment and continues through the individual units of competency that collectively make up the qualification with regular face to face classroom sessions and issuing of assignments to be completed in the workplace. We work with apprentices, the self-employed, persons looking for a career change and employers to ensure students are able to progress efficiently and meet the volume of learning and performance requirements of the relevant qualifications.

Training For Trees is a registered training organisation (RTO).

We are completely independent and are not auspiced attached to or operating under the direction or licence of any other RTO or parent company.

This means we are personally able look after our students and employers at every step of their journey and beyond.

It has been proven that independent training and assessment increases staff retention safety awareness productivity and efficiency.

Remember to schedule in regular refresher and update training sessions.

If you want to be officially classified as a qualified arborist you will need to complete the appropriate level of qualification:

• AHC30816 Certificate III in arboriculture Or
• AHC50516 Diploma of arboriculture

“Safety Rules”

Check out your eligibility for funding. Enrol now for the next intake Certificate III Arboriculture and Diploma. Now booking chainsaw courses running regularly (all levels), EWP Licence, First Aid, Working at heights, Chipper, Stump grinder, Pole saw and AC/DC. Contact us for your qualifications, short courses VOC, RPL and refresher training. Train with us and leaf qualified. See our website www.trainingfortrees.com.au for details or email info@trainingfortrees.com.au