The NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw and Related Operations has been recognised by the industry and HSE as the industry standard. However, candidates are not required by law to hold a Chainsaw Certificate of Competence unless they are using it professionally within the industry.

Candidates are recommended to attend a course of instruction before the assessment to ensure that they are up to date and properly equipped with the knowledge, skills and resources for a successful assessment.

The qualification is made up of a series of units, mainly requiring pre-requisite units before progression can be made.  Please check the relevant assessment schedules for information on the pre-requisites and recommended training.

Award in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting

Award in Felling and Processing Trees up to 380mm

Award in Ground Based Operations

Award to Fell and Process Trees over 380mm

Award in Severing Uprooted or Windblown Trees

Award in Branch Removal and Breakdown of a Crown

Award in Tree Climbing and Perform Aerial Rescue

Award in Aerial Cutting of Trees using Free-Fall Techniques

Award in Aerial Tree Pruning

Award in Aerial Tree Rigging

Award in Preparing and Agreeing Emergency Treework

Award for Safe Use of Powered Pole Pruners

CoC in Utility Arboriculture

NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Stump Grinding Operations

NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Brushcutting Operations

NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Manually Fed Wood Chipper Operations

Forestry and Arboriculture Factsheet