Award in Tree Climbing and Rescue (formerly CS38), NPTC

This is a five day training course for delegates who require training in tree climbing and aerial rescue before moving on to using a chainsaw in a tree.

This is a five-day training course for delegates who require training in tree climbing and aerial rescue before moving on to using a chainsaw in a tree. Candidates are required to hold this certificate before proceeding to 'Award in Aerial Cutting of Trees Using Free-fall Techniques' (formerly CS39).

You are required to provide your own climbing equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). A full list of the required equipment is shown on the 'Course' tab.

Assessment
Assessment will be arranged by the National Proficiency Tests Council (NPTC) at a future date convenient to you.

Place of study
Study takes place at the Brackenhurst campus. Located near the market town of Southwell and just 14 miles from Nottingham city centre, Brackenhurst is an idyllic 200 hectare estate with specialist units, making it a unique place to learn. Brackenhurst benefits from:

• purpose-built teaching facilities
• an equestrian centre
• a brand-new Veterinary Nursing Building and Animal Unit.

New student accommodation is also available and students have on-site access to:

• a library
• careers service
• computing facilities
• shop
• cafe
• bar.

Tour the Brackenhurst campus on an Open Day

• Check out our Flickr photostream!
• Find out more about the facilities at Brackenhurst.

Course content

• Identify the risk assessment and emergency procedures on a work site.
• Identification and checking of equipment necessary for tree climbing.
• Tie rope climbing knots and prepare strops.
• Entering, ascending and descending trees using the safe working techniques.
• Rescue of an injured climber.

You are required to provide your own tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as listed below.

Climbing equipment required:

• tree climbing harness, either full or sit type.
• tree climbing rope, minimum 12mm diameter and of suitable length (recommended 40mtrs long).
• climbing irons (spikes - this item can be provided by NTU on loan).
• four large triple action karabiners.
• maillon rapide for certain types of harness e.g. Willans.
• adjustable strop or three metre flipline.
• four prusik loops or split tails. 1.5 metres in length.
• any climbing or lifting equipment used during the NPTC assessment must be LOLER compliant - this means that it should be uniquely identifiable and have a record of thorough inspection presented with it.

Personal protective equipment required:

• work boots
• non-snag clothing
• combination helmet with four point chin strap EN12492
• hand cleaner or wet wipes
• personal first aid kit suitable to take up a tree
• knife with retractable blade
• whistle.