Managing tree risk has become increasingly important in urban environments as cities become greener and more trees are preserved around developments. It’s essential to adopt a formal approach to address hazards associated with mature trees.
In areas with high foot traffic, such as schools, it’s crucial to identify hazards and implement plans to mitigate risks of tree failures like branch or deadwood drop, or tree collapse. Often, signs of hazards are evident well before a failure occurs. Engaging an experienced AQF5 arborist to assess your trees and develop a remediation plan can significantly minimise risk.
Tree risk assessments identify potential hazards, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors.
Proactively addressing tree risks minimises liability exposure for property owners.
Assessments help prolong the lifespan of valuable trees by targeting preservation strategies.
Mitigating tree risks prevents damage to structures and vehicles.
Some authorities mandate tree risk assessments for high-risk areas to ensure regulatory compliance.
Documentation of risk management efforts aids in negotiating favourable insurance rates and terms.
Clients gain confidence knowing they've addressed potential hazards and can enjoy their property safely.
At Assurance Trees, we adhere to the tree risk assessment methodology outlined by the International Society of Arboriculture and hold the associated ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
Our risk assessment process includes:
Discussing the tree owner's comfort level with risk, typically categorised as Low, Moderate, High, or Extreme.
Allocating occupancy rates for different areas on the site to determine focus areas.
Conducting a thorough site inspection and collecting tree data to identify and grade hazards according to a risk matrix.
Developing a management plan to mitigate risks and specifying necessary works.
Documenting the risk assessment in a clear manner to facilitate accurate quoting by tree contractors.
While schools are the most common clients requesting tree risk assessments, anyone managing trees in public spaces has a duty of care to address risks. Like workplace hazards, quantifying risks is crucial to developing management activities to reduce risks to acceptable levels.
With our background in tree removal and pruning, we understand the needs of contractors conducting such works, ensuring our reports are easy to follow and provide clear scope, reducing costs for our clients. We also offer supervision of tree contractors to safeguard high-value tree assets if preferred.
Our tree risk assessments employ various methods, including visual tree assessments (VTA), aerial inspections, and resistograph testing to detect decay. To request a fee proposal for a tree risk assessment, simply fill out the our enquiry form, and we’ll be in touch to discuss your project.
A Tree Risk Assessment is a process used to evaluate the potential risks posed by trees. It involves inspecting a tree’s condition, structural integrity, and potential for failure to determine the risk it may pose to people, property, and infrastructure.
Tree Risk Assessments are important for ensuring safety by identifying and managing potential hazards associated with trees. They help prevent accidents, property damage, and legal liabilities by addressing issues before they become problematic.
There are concerns about the health or stability of a tree.
Trees are located near structures, pathways, or high-traffic areas.
Planning for construction or development that might affect trees.
Insurance claims or legal disputes involve tree-related damage.
Routine maintenance or management of a tree is required.
Examining the tree’s structure, canopy, and root zone for visible signs of damage or disease.
Assessing the likelihood of tree failure and the potential consequences.
Providing a detailed report with findings, risk ratings, and recommended actions.
A qualified arborist conducts a Tree Risk Assessment by inspecting the tree and using tools and methods to evaluate its condition. This can include visual assessments, decay detection, and structural analysis.
Different species and sizes have varying risk profiles.
Signs of disease, decay, or structural damage.
Proximity to buildings, roads, and pedestrian areas.
Recent weather events, soil conditions, and surrounding changes.
The frequency of Tree Risk Assessments depends on factors such as the tree’s location, condition, and the surrounding environment. High-risk trees or those in dynamic conditions may require more frequent assessments. We conduct TRA’s in schools annually or biannually as a reference.
A Tree Risk Assessment should be performed by an experienced AQF5 arborist with expertise in risk management and tree health assessment.
While not always legally required, Tree Risk Assessments are required for demonstration of compliance with duty of care legislation in Australia.
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