Updated Industry Code of Practice for Arboriculture released

After reviewing the ICoP, HSE issued the following endorsement: “The Health and Safety Executive was involved with the Arboricultural Association in producing this guidance. HSE endorses the guidance, as it follows a sensible and proportionate approach to managing health and safety.”

The first edition of this document was published in 2015. Following recent developments, chiefly around two-rope working, there was a need to revise the guidance on the principles of managing tree work at height.

This second edition of the ICoP provides revised and updated guidance, with planning protocols for managing resources, personnel and equipment aimed at ensuring safe and efficient working practices. It also provides the basis for the further development of detailed technical guidance on individual tasks and equipment.

The ICoP is not intended to provide guidance on how tasks and specific techniques should be performed. It identifies and considers the underpinning principles, informing the upcoming technical guidance that relates to specific arboricultural operations.

The industry consultation for Technical Guide 1 will be launched this month. The subjects of each guide are as follows:

Technical Guide 1: Tree climbing and aerial rescue

Technical Guide 2: Use of tools in the tree

Technical Guide 3: Rigging and dismantling

Technical Guide 4: Use of mobile cranes in tree work

Technical Guide 5: Use of mobile elevating work platforms in tree work.

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