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Aerial Tree Cutting Refresher Course (CS39)

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness  (0041-04)

Course Description

The City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness (0041-04) is designed for qualified arborists who require structured CPD to review aerial tree cutting and safe working practices. The module combines refresher training with a formal assessment element to confirm continued competence in line with current Arboriculture Association Technical Guide 1 & 2, best practises.

City and Guilds NPTC Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness CPD module (CS39)

Course Overview

Qualification Title

City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 CPD Module in Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness (0041-04)

Course Cost

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

Course Duration

1 day, including independent NPTC assessment. 

Entry Requirements

  • Hold a City and Guilds NPTC (or LANTRA) Certificate of Competence in Aerial Tree Cutting (CS39)

  • Have a suitable level of fitness for tree climbing

  • Experience with using a chainsaw in a tree 

Who's This Course For?

This CPD module is suitable for:

  • Arborists 

  • Grounds maintenance and estates staff 

  • Employers and contractors requiring refresher training

  • Operators returning to tree climbing activities 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:

  • Safe use of a chainsaw from rope and harness

  • 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 0041-04

This certification provides industry-recognised evidence of:

  • Ongoing professional development

  • Performing aerial cutting safely 

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View assessment guidance

Aerial Tree Cutting Refresher Training (CS39)

What This CPD Module Covers

Planning & Risk Assessment

  • Evaluating a tree for hazards

  • Planning tree climbing operations 

  • Climbing in accordance with AATG2

Chainsaw Use & Work Positioning

Aerial Cutting

  • Aerial cutting techniques

  • Controlled removal of limbs

  • Correct target pruning techniques for tree health

  • Work positioning techniques

  • Safe starting and handling techniques

PPE & Equipment Required

FAQs

All equipment must be in good/safe working order, and meet minimum standards in accordance with WaHR, LOLER, PPE regulations.

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Minimum climbing kit to include:​

  • Tree climbing harness

  • Two climbing ropes (35m minimum recommended)

  • 3 Prussick loops 

  • 5 carabiners (three way,  auto locking)

  • Side strop system

  • Climbing spikes

  • Personal first aid kit and rescue knife

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  • Helmet with 4 static point chin strap, Ear protection and Eye protection

  • Chainsaw trousers, minimum class 1 type C

  • Chainsaw boots

  • Weather appropriate clothing 

  • Top handle chainsaw with tool strop in good condition

  • Maintenance and sharpening kit for chainsaw

  • Fuel and chain oil

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All climbing kit must have an in date LOLER certificate, or if purchased within six months, receipts. This must cover the training and assessment dates.

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 CS39 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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