Course Description
Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting (CS30) is the essential entry-level course for anyone who needs to operate a chainsaw safely in the UK. This practical training course teaches learners how to maintain and use a chainsaw on the ground while meeting UK legislative requirements such as PUWER, HSE and FISA best practice. Ideal for new arborists, forestry workers, land managers, and estate teams, this qualification forms the foundation for all further chainsaw related training and NPTC qualifications. Our instructors deliver a clear, hands-on training course to help every candidate develop confidence, competence, and a strong understanding of safe and efficient chainsaw use.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (Units 201 & 202)
Course Cost
£457 including City and Guilds NPTC registration and assessment fees.
Course Duration
2 days training followed by 1 day independent NPTC assessment.
Entry Requirements
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Be 16 years old or above
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Have a minimum level of fitness to be able to manoeuvrer a chainsaw safely
What This Qualification Allows You To Do
After completing the course and assessment, successful candidates are qualified to:
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Maintain and operate a chainsaw on the ground
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Prepare and cross-cut timber safely and efficiently
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Progress to CS31 – Felling Small Trees or other chainsaw units
Who's This Course For?
Assessment & Certification
This course is ideal for:
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New entrants to arboriculture and forestry
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Grounds maintenance and estates teams
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Farmers and agricultural workers
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Landscaping and contracting professionals
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Anyone needing chainsaw certification for insurance or compliance
Assessment is completed by an independent City & Guilds NPTC assessor. Candidates must demonstrate:
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Correct chainsaw maintenance
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Safe starting procedures and operational checks
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Accurate cross-cutting of timber
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Hazard awareness and safe working techniques
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Successful learners receive a City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Award in Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting (CS30 - Unit 201&202).
This qualification is recognised by the Forestry and Arboricultural industry in the UK and other countries around the world. Also, widely recognised by UK employers, insurance providers and local authorities.
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What Will You Learn?
Chainsaw Safety & Risk Assessment
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Understanding PUWER and other relevant legislation.
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Identifying and controlling hazards
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Safe working zones and communication
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Correct body position, stance, and movement
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Preventing kickback, chain pinch, and other common risks
Cross Cutting Techniques (Unit 202)
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Safe starting procedure from cold
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Assessing timber for tension and compression
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Cross-cutting techniques and safe use of bore cuts
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Preventing saw trapping and dealing with timber under tension
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Efficient material handling
Chainsaw Maintenance (Unit 201)
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Performing daily checks and identifying chainsaw safety features
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Chain sharpening, tensioning, and guide bar maintenance
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Chainsaw maintenance
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Troubleshooting performance issues
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Cleaning, storage, and safe transportation of equipment
PPE & Equipment Required
FAQs
All equipment must be in good/safe working order, and meet minimum standards in accordance with PUWER regulations.
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Chainsaw protective trousers (Class 1 minimum), Type A or C
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Chainsaw protective boots
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Safety helmet with visor and ear protection
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Chainsaw protective gloves
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Personal first aid kit
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Recommended 50cc petrol chainsaw with 15” guide bar
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Fuel and chain oil
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Tool and sharpening kit suitable for chainsaw
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Weather appropriate clothing
Is this the right course for beginners?

Yes — CS30 is designed for those with little or no prior experience.
Does this certificate expire?

NPTC certificates do not expire, but refresher training every 3–5 years is recommended.
Do I need CS30 before progressing?

Yes — CS30 is required before CS31, Small Tree Felling and all other felling courses.