Posted By Kenneth Dodd
Hi Kevin

I am currently researching approaches to tree risk assessment with a view to publishing good practice guidance on the Visitor Safety in the Countryside Group website (www.vscg.co.uk).

As far as I am aware there are no specific laid down minimum qualifications for tree inspection. The sheer number of trees managed by VSCG members means that it would not be reasonably practicable for ALL trees to be inspected by a qualified arboriculturist.

Our member organisations (for example RSPB and the National Trust) train staff to carry out initial basic inspections. A key competence is to be able to judge when it is necessary to bring in more professional advice.

I am aware that the Arboricultural Association(www.trees.org.uk) runs one-day courses on basic tree survey and inspection for non-arborists such as highway inspectors and park rangers. (http://www.trees.org.uk/course.php)
The training is accredited by Lantra and certificates are issued.

(The Arb Assoc also offers examined courses for professionals.)

The level of skill and experience needed for tree inspection in zones of high risk is clearly critical. (High risk zones would typically include areas next to railways and busy roads; heavily used car parks, picnic areas, gardens and playgrounds; in fact any areas where large numbers of people congregate.) A recent judgement, Gary Poll v Viscount Asquith of Morley, seems to confirm this. (http://www.ala.org.uk/cases/2006HC-4BC50384.pdf)

Ken Dodd
Chairman, Visitor Safety in the Countryside Group