K - Preliminary Arborist Report (29.08.2019)

Arboricultural Work Method Statement (AWMS)




Activity: General Excavation




Description of Works



Excavation with the use of a mechanical device within the Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) of tree(s) nominated for retention.


The methodologies within this AWMS follow a logical sequence of events. Variation to the sequence could significantly reduce the efficiency
of the tree protection measures. This method statement should be read in conjunction with the relevant design drawing(s) and supporting
technical reports.


Work Method


        1.      All site works/plant operators are to receive tree protection site induction by the Site Manager and/or Supervising Project
                Arborist if deemed necessary.


        2.      No vehicle or plant with upward pointing exhausts are to be operated under the subject tree canopy (to avoid heat damage to
                the tree canopy) where possible.


        3.      No vehicle or plant is to be operated within the designated Tree Protection Zone (TPZ) unless authorisation has been obtained
                by the Supervising Project Arborist.


        4.      No bulk or harmful materials such as concrete wash is to be placed in a defined TPZ.


        5.      Access into a defined TPZ or movement of the protection barriers/fencing will only be permitted in consultation with the
                Supervising Project Arborist.


        6.      The excavator bucket is to be inverted so that it presses down into the soil, severing any roots that may have been missed
                rather than lifting and tearing roots toward the lower trunk region when working near trees.


        7.      Ensure a spotter is available to confirm that any vehicles and machinery do not come into contact with any tree nominated for
                preservation.


        8.      All tree roots that are uncovered when excavating which are greater than 25mm in diameter are to be cut cleanly and straight
                by the Supervising Project Arborist.


        9.      Hand digging must occur if machinery is not capable of work in and around tree roots deemed worthy of retention without
                causing damage as determined by the Supervising Project Arborist on a case by case basis.


        10.     Where air spades/water knife are to be used to aid identification of tree roots, the pressure must be reduced to mitigate the
                potential of bark being stripped from the roots or the occurrence of root severance.


        11.     Water is not to be used for cutting purposes unless instructed by the Supervising Project Arborist and in consultation with the
                relevant representatives.


        12.     If the area of excavation has an extensive network of tree roots or a tree root with a 75mm diameter or greater, the area of
                excavation is to be backfilled within 12hrs of opening without causing damage to tree roots or covered using wet hessian, to
                ensure the tree roots retain moisture and do not dry out. The hessian is to be comprised from 100% Jute which is a natural
                fibre & will rot down over time.


        13.     When backfilling around tree roots, the subject soil is to be comprised of an indigenous topsoil and organic matter with a
                neutral pH, free from weed growth and harmful materials. The backfilling of soil is to be carefully rammed & watered in and
                around tree roots to eliminate air pockets.


        14.     All works within the defined exclusion zone as outlined within this report requires authorisation by the Supervising Project
              Arborist.


Reporting of Incidents


All damage to protective barriers or accidental damage to trees (above or below ground) no matter how insignificant it may seem, must be
reported to the relevant representative and the Supervising Project Arborist immediately. A record of the damage is to be made by the Site
Manager and reported to the relevant representatives and the Supervising Project Arborist.


Name:                             Date:                         Signature:                             Name:                        Date:
Signature:
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PAR: V2
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