Course Description
Aerial Cutting with a Chainsaw (CS39) is an arboricultural qualification for climbers who need to operate a chainsaw safely while working in a tree. Building on the climbing skills gained in CS38, this course focuses on controlled cutting techniques, secure work positioning, and managing risk while using a top-handled chainsaw aloft. Ideal for trainee arborists wanting to progress, CS39 develops the competence required for safe aerial cutting in accordance with UK legislation and industry best practice.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
City and Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness (0039-23)
Course Cost
£462 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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Hold Chainsaw Maintenance and Cross Cutting (CS30)
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Hold Small Tree Felling (CS31)
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Hold Tree Climbing and Aerial Rescue (CS38)
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Have a suitable level of fitness for tree climbing and a head for heights
What This Qualification Allows You To Do
After completing the course and assessment, successful candidates are qualified to:
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Use a chainsaw while working from rope and harness
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Progress to Aerial Tree Pruning (CS40)
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Progress to Aerial Tree Rigging (CS41)
Who's This Course For?
Assessment & Certification
This course is ideal for:
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Trainee arborists wanting to progress in their careers
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Tree surgeons moving into aerial cutting roles
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Contractors requiring aerial chainsaw certification
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Local authority operatives
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Forestry and estates workers
Assessment is completed by an independent City & Guilds NPTC assessor. Candidates must demonstrate:
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Demonstrating safe aerial chainsaw use
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Controlled cutting from rope and harness
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Maintaining correct work positioning
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Awareness of risk and surroundings
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Successful learners receive a City & Guilds NPTC Level 2 Certificate of Competence in Using a Chainsaw from Rope and Harness.
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?
Planning & Risk Assessment
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Assessing hazards while aloft
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Communication with ground staff
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Emergency procedures
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Working in accordance with Arboricultural Association Technical Guide 2
Safe Chainsaw Use & Work Positioning
Aerial Cutting Techniques (Unit 308)
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Aerial cutting techniques
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Controlled removal of limbs
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Correct target pruning techniques for tree health
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Using cutting techniques to reduce splitting and tearing of limbs
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Work positioning techniques
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Safe starting and handling techniques
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Avoiding kickback
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:​
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Tree climbing harness
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Two climbing ropes (35m minimum recommended)
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3 Prussick loops
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5 carabiners (three way, auto locking)
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Side strop system
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Climbing spikes
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Personal first aid kit and rescue knife
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Helmet with 4 static point chin strap, Ear protection and Eye protection
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Chainsaw trousers, minimum class 1 type C
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Chainsaw boots
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Weather appropriate clothing
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Top handle chainsaw with tool strop in good condition
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Maintenance and sharpening kit for chainsaw
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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 CS38 required before CS39?
Yes — CS38 is mandatory before using a chainsaw in the tree.
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Do I need climbing experience?
No — this course is designed for new climbers, although a minimum level of fitness and head for heights is required.