Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment – What Do Tree Surgeons Arborists Use?

Tree surgery is a complex and specialised job, requiring the correct tools and equipment to ensure a successful outcome. Tree surgeons and arborists use a range of tools depending on the task at hand, from pruning shears for removing small branches to chainsaws for larger ones. Protective gear is also essential when working with trees, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and hard hats. In some cases, harnesses might be worn as well if the tree surgeon is required to climb up into the canopy of taller trees.

Other important tools include loppers and pruners for shaping plants, brush cutters or trimmers that are used to cut away overgrown grass or weeds near roots, pole saws to reach higher foliage without needing to climb, and chippers to break down branches into smaller pieces.

Ladders may also be used in addition to harnesses or climbing spikes (which are inserted directly into the tree) to reach high branches. Tree surgeons are careful with their tools and use them sparingly, taking care not to damage surrounding trees or plants during their work.

Tree surgeons must always consider safety first when using any tool, so having the right equipment for each job is essential. With proper training and experience, a tree surgeon will know exactly which tool is best for a given task. The right tools can make all the difference in creating a safe environment that allows a tree to continue thriving after it has been worked on. This ensures that everyone involved is safe and that the tree is unharmed.

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Chain Saws

Tree surgeons rely on chainsaws to safely and effectively cut through large branches and trunks with precision and accuracy. It is important for tree surgeons to maintain their chainsaws in good condition, as a dull or damaged tool can increase the risk of injury from kickback or lead to inaccurate cuts. Before using a chainsaw, always check that all bolts are tight, lubricate the chain according to your owner’s manual, wear protective clothing and goggles, and ensure that you have a secure footing before starting the job.

When working with a chainsaw, always remember to keep your hands away from the spinning chain, only use appropriate accessories designed for use with your saw model, never start the saw with your foot, and never reach into a tree or branch without first stabilising it. Following these safety precautions will help you to work safely and accurately when using chainsaws as a tree surgeon.

Once the work is finished, the blades of your chainsaw should always be cleaned off with water and oiled according to manufacturer instructions before storing to prevent rusting and other damage. With proper use and maintenance, your chainsaw can provide many years of reliable service in helping you do your job as a tree surgeon.

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Wood Chippers

Wood Chippers are essential tools for tree surgeons, as they allow them to quickly and efficiently break down large branches into smaller manageable pieces. They also help reduce disposal costs by reducing the amount of material that needs to be taken away. Wood Chippers are typically powered by either petrol or electric motors, providing great portability and flexibility while still delivering powerful chipping performance. 

Wood chippers are powerful tools that can help speed up the process of clearing away tree stumps and limbs, as well as reduce the amount of material that needs to be taken away after pruning or trimming trees. By investing in quality tools such as wood chippers, you can ensure that your tree surgery work is done quickly and safely. 

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Stump Grinder

Tree surgeons often use a stump grinder to remove tree stumps. It is an effective tool for grinding away large amounts of wood and reducing the stump too small chips. The tool features sharp blades that quickly cut through the tough outer layer of a tree, enabling it to grind down deeper into the trunk and roots. Using a stump grinder can help make trees safer in heavily populated areas, as well as make them easier to maintain and prevent the disease from spreading in the environment. Tree surgeons should always use safety equipment when using this powerful tool, including ear protection, face masks, gloves, goggles, and steel-toed boots. Proper training is also essential; stump grinder operators should be properly trained in how to operate the machine safely and efficiently. Additionally, these operators should be aware of their surroundings and ensure that the area is free from people or pets before commencing work. Stump grinders are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit different jobs, so it is important for tree surgeons to select the right equipment for the job at hand.

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Hand Saws

Hand saws are one of the most important tools in a tree surgeon’s arsenal. These versatile saws can be used for cutting, pruning, and trimming with precise accuracy. Hand saws come in various sizes and shapes, from small-toothed handsaws to large-toothed power saws. The type of hand saw selected depends on the material being cut and the job at hand. Smaller teeth create a finer cut when dealing with softer woods, while larger teeth can handle tougher materials such as hardwood or metal. A variety of blades are available for different applications; some have curved blades for making curved cuts, and others have short handles for reaching tight spots or in places that require maneuoverability. Hand saws can also be used for shaping and forming, allowing tree surgeons to make smooth cuts in awkward or difficult-to-reach areas. Hand saws are an essential tool for any tree surgeon, and should always be part of their tool kit. 

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Cranes

Cranes are essential pieces of equipment in the tree surgeon’s toolkit. They allow for easier transportation and maneuovering of heavy objects, such as large branches or entire trees. Mobile cranes can be easily set up to support a variety of operations like lifting, hoisting, rigging, and long-distance hauling. Stationary cranes provide stability when dealing with larger loads and boast greater reach than their mobile counterparts which is ideal for pruning taller trees or removing entire trees. In addition, modern cranes come equipped with advanced safety features such as anti-collision sensors that alert the operator when obstacles are nearby. This ensures that accidents are avoided even in hazardous areas like on slopes or near power lines. Well-maintained cranes will help keep a tree surgeon’s job safe and efficient. With the right crane, tree surgeons can easily lift, move, and transport logs or entire trees with minimal risk of injury to themselves or bystanders.

Tree Surgeon Tools and Equipment: Rigging, hoists, and pulleys

Tree surgeons use rigging, hoists, and pulleys to move logs and branches safely while protecting the surrounding area. Rigging is used to set up an anchor point that can be attached to a rope or cable system which is then used to lower limbs or logs into place. Hoists are powered devices that lift heavy objects using winches and cables and can be used to move logs and branches that are too heavy or cumbersome for rigging. Pulleys are usually incorporated into the hoisting system and provide mechanical advantage, allowing loads to be moved over greater distances with less effort. Tree surgeons may also use cranes, aerial lifts, and other specialised equipment when larger trees need to be removed or pruned. Safety is of utmost importance when using such equipment, and proper training and protective gear must be worn at all times. With the right tools and equipment, tree surgeons can safely perform the necessary tasks to keep trees healthy and beautiful.

Tree Surgeon Safety Equipment: 

Tree surgeons are required to wear a range of safety equipment for every job. This includes helmets or hard hats, protective eyewear like goggles, ear protection such as plugs or muffs, and safety boots. For climbers, arborists must also use special climbing gear like harnesses and lanyards.

When using tools and other machinery, protective clothing like gloves and heavy-duty work jackets can help to prevent injury. Respiratory protection such as masks may also be needed when using hazardous materials or working in confined spaces. It is important for tree surgeons to make sure they have the right safety equipment for every job, and that it is properly maintained and replaced when necessary. 

Tree surgeons should also be aware of the hazards associated with their work and take the necessary precautions to reduce risks. This may include using proper body mechanics when lifting heavy loads, staying vigilant for falling branches or debris, and avoiding contact with hazardous materials. In addition, tree surgeons must have a good understanding of first aid procedures in case of injury.

Tree Surgeon and their consumable Items:

Tree surgeons often use a variety of consumable items to help them in their work. These may include safety equipment, such as helmets, gloves, and goggles; protective clothing (such as chainsaw chaps); cutting tools (chainsaws, pruners, and loppers); rigging equipment (ropes and slings); ladders; hand saws; shovels; and tarps. They may also use lubricants (such as bar and chain oil for chainsaws) and other specialty items, such as climbing spikes. Lastly, tree surgeons often use a variety of consumable items to help them in their work, including insecticides, fungicides, and other chemicals used to treat pests or diseases on trees. These chemicals must be used with caution, as they can be hazardous to both humans and the environment. With proper training and care, tree surgeons are able to use these items safely and effectively, ensuring that trees remain healthy for years to come.

Important: A Tree Surgeon Will always have a first aid box

A first aid box is a must-have for any tree surgeon. It is critical to have the right supplies on hand in case of an emergency while working high up in trees. A good tree surgeon will always ensure they have their first aid box nearby, filled with essential items such as bandages, antiseptic ointment, and painkillers. Not only can these items come in handy for minor scrapes and cuts, but they can also be used to treat more serious injuries such as broken limbs or burns. Furthermore, a first aid box can help support the cleanliness of any tree work environment by providing wipes and disinfectant sprays to reduce the risk of infection. For ultimate safety and peace of mind, a first aid box should be at the top of any tree surgeon's list.

Having a first aid box in your tree surgery kit can also be helpful for preventing and treating illnesses or allergies that may be present on site. If you have any allergies to dust, pollen, or insects it is important to have antihistamines in your first aid box to help reduce the severity of any symptoms. Furthermore, protective gear such as safety goggles and gloves should be kept in your box as well so that you can protect yourself from potential irritants or hazards at the site.