(MEWPS) for tree work - Urban Access

The main objectives of the field trials were:1. Evaluate each MEWP selected with regard to the following factors:The capability and limitation of each model with regard to:- Access – in reaching the tree and the crown in association with the maximum height andreach.- Manoeuvrability – around the tree and within the crown in association with sidewaysmovement available.- Terrain – with regard to soft conditions, gradients, side slopes and rough groundAccess into and out of the platformNumber of operators required for each operationThe ease of each operationAll safety aspects associated with each machine type and operation in comparison with the risksof tree climbing. A full risk assessment to include such as guards, communications and whatdangerous aspects of tree surgery using tree climbing are removed or reduced and at what cost.Identification of best working practice for each piece of equipment2. To test the ability of the MEWPs to provide a platform to allow a practitioner to carry out arange of simulated operations such as a crown reduction, crown thinning or complete takedown.3. Evaluate the design and method limitations that prevent maximising the use of MEWPs inarboricultural operations.4. Ascertain a comparison of outputs and costs, where possible, between methods of climbingand MEWPs.To address the needs of the evaluation the trials included a representation of types and models thatare known to be currently available. This enabled evaluation of the range of sites and equipmentrequirements.2