Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
24/07/2026 12:39 AM AWST

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Perform a ground-based tree defect evaluation

Perform a ground-based tree defect evaluation

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCARB408
State Code
OBV51
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
26/08/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
13/11/2020
Field of Education
050301 - Horticulture
Original Release Date
13/11/2020
Nominal Hours
90
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to examine trees from the ground, assess and test them for defects, evaluate the potential risk of failure, secure the site and report the condition to specialist arborist for a tree risk assessment.The unit applies to individuals who work in arboriculture and apply specialist skills to provide solutions to technical and unpredictable problems. They work autonomously, instruct and monitor the work of others within a team. They use discretion and judgment in the selection, allocation and use of available resources.Legislation, regulations and by-laws relating to the treatment and removal of trees apply in some states and territories.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine evaluation requirements
  • 1.1 Confirm trees to be evaluated according to client brief
  • 1.2 Undertake a site-specific job safety analysis (JSA) and record and implement control measures
  • 1.3 Determine tree health and hazard benchmarks for project according to industry standards
2. Examine tree visually for indicators of potential failure
  • 2.1 Examine tree for indicators of general poor health
  • 2.2 Examine tree for visual defects
  • 2.3 Examine tree for indication of damage from organisms
  • 2.4 Assess examination outcomes to determine potential for structural failure of tree components according to industry benchmarks
3. Undertake basic testing of tree for indicators of potential failure
  • 3.1 Conduct tests for cavities according to visual indicators
  • 3.2 Expose root crown and examine for concealed root defects according to visual examination outcomes
  • 3.3 Remove loose bark and examine stems for concealed defects according to visual examination outcomes
  • 3.4 Assess test outcomes for potential impact on tree health and structural integrity according to industry benchmarks
4. Record tree attributes and indicators
  • 4.1 Capture images and record botanical name, dimensions and location of tree under evaluation
  • 4.2 Document the results of examinations and tests conducted for tree under evaluation
  • 4.3 Capture images, location and visual indicators of defects in tree for inclusion in documentation
  • 4.4 Estimate and record dimensions of defect and affected tree component
5. Assess and mitigate potential risk, and document actions
  • 5.1 Identify possible targets affected by tree under evaluation from client brief
  • 5.2 Assess identified defective tree components for structural integrity and potential risk on possible targets
  • 5.3 Validate assessment of severe defects on structural integrity of tree with consulting arborist
  • 5.4 Advise client of outcomes of tree defect evaluation where a heightened potential risk to targets is identified
  • 5.5 Take action to mitigate potential risk according to client advice and workplace policies and procedures
  • 5.6 Document action taken to mitigate potential risk on target
6. Document and report hazards and recommendations
  • 6.1 Review and assess tree defect evaluation results, and consider options for resolving any unmitigated risk
  • 6.2 Identify and document recommended options for client approval
  • 6.3 Compile records, results and recommendations, and document tree defect evaluation report according to workplace procedures and industry standards
  • 6.4 Submit tree defect evaluation report to client according to workplace procedures
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAO26 AHCARB403 Perform a ground-based tree defect evaluation Unit of competency