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Small Tree Felling Refresher Course (CS31)

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm (0041-02)

Course Description

The City & Guilds Level 2 NPTC CPD Module in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm (0041-02) provides qualified chainsaw operators with structured continuing professional development to review felling techniques and demonstrate continued competence. This assessor-led CPD module combines practical refresher training with formal assessment and is intended to confirm that small tree felling operations are carried out safely, efficiently, and in accordance with current industry standards. The module forms part of the City & Guilds NPTC CPD framework and is recognised across the arboricultural and forestry sectors.

Small Fell Refresher Training (CS31)

Course Overview

Qualification Title

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Felling Small Trees up to 380mm  (0041-02)

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 Felling Small Trees up to 380mm (CS31) 

  • Have a minimum level of fitness to be able to manoeuvrer and carry out ground based chainsaw work safely.

Who's This Course For?

This CPD module is suitable for:

  • Arborists and forestry workers

  • Grounds maintenance and estates staff 

  • Employers and contractors meeting PUWER duties for ongoing competence

  • Operators returning to tree felling operations  following a period away

Assessment & Certification

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 small tree felling

  • A range of felling 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 0041-02

This certification provides industry-recognised evidence of:

  • Ongoing professional development

  • Felling small trees up to 380mm safely.

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View assessment guidance

City and Guilds NPTC Small Tree Felling CPD Module (CS31)

What This CPD Module Covers

Felling Safety & Best Practice Review

  • Review of FISA best practise guidance

  • Site-specific risk assessment

  • Tree condition and hazards

  • Safe working distances and communication

Small Tree Felling

Processing & Handling 

  • Safely and efficiently processing felled trees 

  • Safe cross-cutting techniques in a range of scenarios

  • Reducing chainsaw trapping and kickback risk

  • Handling and stacking of felled timber 

  • Felling direction and determining lean

  • Preparing escape routes 

  • Felling techniques up to 380mm in diameter 

  • Hung up tree removal techniques

  • Felling techniques for tree under 200mm in diameter

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

  • Felling lever and wedge

  • Tool and sharpening kit suitable for chainsaw 

  • Fuel and chain oil

  • 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 CS31 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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