HSE's tree work case studies: the five themes and what HSE says under each
How the HSE page of tree work case studies is set out, the five themes it covers and what HSE says should follow from each, with the links to HSE's fuller pages.
Checked against the sources at the bottom of this page on October 9, 2026. Rules, fees and pay change: the source has the last word.
This page reports what the named codes, regulators and makers say. It is not training and does not teach the work. It describes how the Health and Safety Executive's page of tree work case studies is laid out and what HSE says under each heading, and links to it. It does not replace the page or add a talk of its own. HSE text is adapted under the Open Government Licence v3.0. All pages were read on October 9, 2026. The courses that teach the work are in the guides on chainsaw tickets and UK awards.
The page
The HSE page Case studies: treework accidents sets out five short cases, each under a theme heading, with a short "how to prevent this type of accident" note and links to HSE guidance. HSE points to more case studies on the National Archives site. The cases are brief accounts of fatal events in forestry and tree work in Great Britain. Names are not given, and this page gives no more of the accounts than the theme and what HSE says should follow from each.
The five themes and what HSE says under each
| Theme | What HSE says under it |
|---|---|
| Working with chainsaws | Working at height with a chainsaw is extremely high risk; those doing it are fully trained and competent, and the equipment used to work off the ground is suitable. HSE links the leaflet on top-handled chainsaws (AFAG 308) |
| Lone working | Slips and trips cannot be eliminated in forestry, but a clear work area, suitable footwear and attention to the ground reduce the chance of an accident; employers of lone workers have reliable procedures to know where they are and keep in touch. HSE links its leaflet on working alone |
| Working at height | A climbing rope that became entangled and took the weight of a falling tree section is the cause HSE gives for a fatal fall. HSE links its working at height guidance |
| Vehicles at work | Many serious incidents involve vehicles at tree work sites, and operators are particularly at risk during maintenance. HSE gives a "Safe Stop" of four steps for maintenance: handbrake on, controls neutral, engine off, key removed |
| Overhead power lines | Work is planned to minimise contact with lines; HSE sets out what the operator of a vehicle in contact with a line does, described in the electricity guide linked below |
The fuller HSE pages behind the case studies
The HSE page on working with chainsaws lists key lessons for felling that cover a site survey, risk assessment and emergency planning, work planning, escape routes, staff competency and experience, and things to avoid with pulling lines. It says HSE's investigations show most fatal and major injuries involve chainsaw operators taking shortcuts and not following good practice guidance. The HSE page on lone working in tree work lists five steps for a lone working policy, as set out in the guide to working alone. For the electricity case, see the guide to electricity and tree work sheets.
To correct or remove an entry, write to the address at the foot of this page.
Sources
- HSE, case studies: treework accidents, Open Government Licence v3.0, read October 9, 2026
- HSE, working with chainsaws, Open Government Licence v3.0, read October 9, 2026
- HSE, lone working in tree work, Open Government Licence v3.0, read October 9, 2026
- HSE, working at height overview for tree work, Open Government Licence v3.0, read October 9, 2026