Essential first aid training for tree surgeons

Working at height. Handling chainsaws. Dealing with heavy branches, unstable ground, and unpredictable weather. For tree surgeons, every day on the job comes with a degree of risk. That’s why having the right first aid training is absolutely vital – not just to tick a compliance box, but to save lives in real-world situations.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the right first aid training for tree surgery and forestry work.

Why standard first aid isn’t enough for tree work

Tree surgeons face hazards most workers never encounter. From chainsaw lacerations to falling injuries and remote location delays, your first aid course needs to reflect the environment you work in.

Common injuries tree surgeons may face:

• Severe bleeding from chainsaw cuts

• Crush injuries from fallen limbs or equipment

• Falls from height requiring spinal care

• Hypothermia or exposure in cold/wet conditions

• Tick bites and Lyme disease risk

• Being first on the scene in isolated or wooded locations

Standard first aid just doesn’t cut it. You need something built for your world.

EFAW +F: emergency first aid at work + forestry

If you’re in forestry or arboriculture, this course is often a legal and insurance requirement.

What EFAW +F covers:

• Life-threatening emergencies (CPR, choking, unconsciousness)

• Catastrophic bleeding control

• Chainsaw-specific injuries

• Crush injuries and limb entrapment

• Cold-related illness (hypothermia)

• Ticks and Lyme disease awareness

It’s a 1-day course that builds on standard emergency training by adding “+F” forestry content, which is essential for tree surgeons.

Outdoor first aid: a step beyond

If you often work in remote rural locations or carry out lone working, outdoor first aid takes things further.

Why choose outdoor first aid?

• 2-day course with more time to build confidence

• Focuses on remote care when help may be delayed

• Practical, scenario-based learning outdoors

• Includes casualty handling, communication, and survival priorities

Many tree surgeons and rope access technicians opt for this course for its relevance to working off-grid or in locations with poor signal.

What makes our training different?

Real-world experience

Our trainers have military, rescue, and outdoor medical backgrounds. We’ve dealt with trauma in the field and know what it takes to stay calm when things go sideways.

Tailored content

We don’t just read from a manual. We show you how to treat a casualty tangled in ropes, bleeding heavily, or pinned by a branch.

Fully compliant

All our courses meet or exceed the standards of:

• HSE (Health and Safety Executive)

• LANTRA and NPTC training expectations

• Forestry Commission guidelines (including +F content)

Ideal for:

• Tree surgeons and arborists

• Forestry contractors

• Rope access teams

• Utility workers in wooded areas

• Groundskeepers and estate managers

Whether you’re self-employed or managing a team, being prepared isn’t optional. It’s professional.

Course options at a glance

Summary: don’t just tick the box – train to save a life

First aid for tree surgeons isn’t just about compliance—it’s about capability. Whether you choose a quick EFAW +F course or the more comprehensive outdoor first aid, you’re investing in the safety of yourself, your team, and everyone you work around.

With realistic training, experienced instructors, and a focus on what actually happens in the woods, the right training helps you prepare for the worst while hoping for the best.