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Chainsaw Refresher Course (CS30)

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (0041-01)

Course Description

The City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Chainsaw Maintenance & Cross-Cutting (0041-01) is intended for qualified chainsaw operators who are undertaking refresher training and formal competence review following completion of their original NPTC qualification. This CPD module combines structured refresher training with an assessment element, allowing candidates to demonstrate continued competence in accordance with current industry best practice and FISA guidance. Delivered and assessed by a City and Guilds NPTC-approved assessor, successful completion provides recognised evidence of ongoing professional development within arboriculture and forestry.

Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting City and Guilds NPTC CPD Module

Course Overview

Qualification Title

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (0041-01)

Course Cost

£250 including City and Guilds NPTC registration and assessment fees.

Course Duration

1 day, including NPTC assessment. 

Entry Requirements

  • Hold a City and Guilds NPTC (or LANTRA) Certificate of Competence in Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (CS30) 

  • Have a minimum level of fitness to be able to manoeuvrer a chainsaw safely 

Who's This Course For?

Assessment & Certification

This CPD module is suitable for:

  • Arborists and forestry workers

  • Grounds maintenance and estates staff

  • Contractors 

  • Employers meeting PUWER duties for ongoing competence

  • Operators returning to chainsaw work following a period away

This CPD module includes formal assessment conducted by a City and Guilds NPTC-approved assessor.

Candidates are assessed on their ability to demonstrate:

  • Continued competence in chainsaw maintenance

  • Safe and controlled cross-cutting techniques

  • Appropriate hazard awareness and compliance with safe systems of work

Successful Completion

Candidates who meet the required standard will be awarded:

City & Guilds NPTC CPD Certification – Module 0041-01

This certification provides industry-recognised evidence of:

  • Ongoing professional development

  • Maintaining and using a chainsaw safely

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View assessment guidance

Chainsaw refresher training (CS30)

What This CPD Module Covers

Chainsaw Safety & Best Practice Review

  • Review of current HSE and FISA best practise guidance

  • Site-specific risk assessment and hazard identification

  • Safe working distances, communication and exclusion zones

Cross Cutting Techniques

  • Assessment of timber for tension and compression

  • Safe cross-cutting techniques in a range of scenarios

  • Reducing chainsaw  trapping and kickback risk

  • Efficient and safe working practices

Chainsaw Maintenance 

  • Pre-use and periodic inspection of chainsaw safety features

  • Chain condition and sharpening

  • Guide bar wear and maintenance

  • Fuel handling, lubrication and environmental considerations

  • Identification of faults that may affect safe operation

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

  • Chainsaw protective boots

  • Safety helmet with visor and ear protection

  • Chainsaw protective gloves 

  • Personal first aid kit

  • Recommended 50cc petrol chainsaw with 15” guide bar

  • Tool and sharpening kit suitable for chainsaw 

  • Weather appropriate clothing 

Is this a refresher course or an assessment?
This module combines refresher training with a formal CPD assessment element.

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Does this replace my original CS30 certificate?
No. The CPD module provides evidence of continued competence and does not replace or invalidate existing qualifications.

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How often should this CPD module be completed?
Industry guidance commonly supports competence review every 3–5 years, or sooner if work practices or circumstances change.

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