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Tree Care
How to Use a Cherry Picker for Tree Care | Safe Arborist Access in Hertfordshire
Using a cherry picker for tree care is one of the safest and most efficient ways to carry out pruning, crown reduction, sectional dismantling and storm-damage work at height. For arborists, tree surgeons and grounds maintenance teams across Hertfordshire, professional cherry picker hire provides stable, controlled access that reduces risk compared to traditional climbing methods.
At our Hemel-based access company, we supply fully certified cherry pickers for tree care projects throughout Hemel Hempstead and surrounding areas including St Albans, Watford, Berkhamsted and Tring.
Why Use a Cherry Picker for Tree Work?
Tree work is high-risk. Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of serious injury in arboriculture. A properly operated cherry picker (also known as a MEWP – Mobile Elevating Work Platform) provides:
A stable working platform
Guard-railed basket for fall protection
Controlled ascent and descent
Improved positioning for precision cutting
Reduced physical strain compared to climbing
Faster completion of large or hazardous jobs
Cherry pickers are especially beneficial for:
Dead or storm-damaged trees
Roadside tree maintenance
Trees near power lines
Large crown reductions
Dismantling unstable trees
Commercial and estate management contracts
Step-by-Step: How to Use a Cherry Picker for Tree Care
1. Carry Out a Full Site Risk Assessment
Before any machine is positioned, assess:
Ground conditions (soft ground, slopes, voids)
Overhead hazards (power lines, cables, branches)
Underground services
Traffic and pedestrian access
Weather conditions (especially wind speeds)
For roadside or public areas, ensure proper traffic management is in place.
2. Inspect the Equipment
Before use:
Conduct pre-use checks
Confirm LOLER certification is current
Inspect harness anchor points
Check emergency lowering systems
Test controls at ground and basket level
Never operate a cherry picker without proper training (IPAF certification is recommended).
3. Wear the Correct PPE
Tree care using a cherry picker requires:
Approved safety helmet with chin strap
Chainsaw protective trousers
Cut-resistant gloves
Eye and ear protection
Full body harness with short restraint lanyard attached to basket anchor point
Unlike climbing, you must remain clipped into the basket at all times.
4. Position the Machine Correctly
Deploy outriggers fully on stable ground
Use spreader pads if necessary
Level the machine according to manufacturer guidance
Keep a safe working distance from overhead cables
Never reposition the base unit while the platform is elevated unless the machine is designed for that function.
5. Operate Smoothly and Maintain Stability
When elevated:
Avoid sudden movements
Do not overreach outside the basket
Keep tools secured
Cut in manageable sections
Be aware of swing radius
When dismantling sections, ensure ground crew maintain exclusion zones.
6. Lower and Reposition Safely
Bring the basket down fully before relocating the machine. Reassess ground stability if moving to a new position.
When Is a Cherry Picker Safer Than Climbing?
A cherry picker is often the safest option when:
The tree is structurally compromised
There is significant decay
Storm damage has weakened anchor points
The tree leans over buildings or roads
Fast completion is required in commercial settings
For many professional tree surgeons, MEWPs are now preferred for larger dismantling projects.
Tree Care Services Supported by Cherry Picker Hire
Our access equipment supports:
Crown thinning and reduction
Pollarding
Deadwood removal
Sectional dismantling
Hedge and estate maintenance
Highway tree management
Emergency storm response
We work with domestic tree surgeons, local authorities, facilities managers and commercial contractors throughout Hertfordshire.
For many projects, using a cherry picker is more cost-effective than extended manual climbing time.
Cherry Picker Hire in Hemel Hempstead for Tree Surgeons
Based in Hemel Hempstead, we provide reliable cherry picker hire for tree care across Hertfordshire and nearby towns. Our machines are maintained to the highest safety standards and available for:
Short-term hire
Long-term contracts
Emergency call-outs
Weekend work
We understand the needs of arborists and utility vegetation management teams and can recommend the right access solution for your specific project.
Need Advice on Using a Cherry Picker for Tree Care?
If you're unsure which machine is right for your tree project, our experienced team can help you choose the safest and most efficient option. Whether you're carrying out crown reduction in a residential garden or managing roadside trees near overhead services, we provide dependable access solutions across Hertfordshire.
Contact us today for expert advice and competitive cherry picker hire in Hemel Hempstead.
Our Services
Based in Hemel Hempstead, our company provides reliable cherry picker hire for projects of all sizes across Hertfordshire, the Home Counties, and North London.. Whether you’re working at height on a construction site, carrying out building maintenance, or handling specialist installations, our modern, well-maintained cherry pickers offer a safe and efficient solution. With flexible hire options and prompt local service, we help keep your project moving smoothly and on schedule.
Serving customers throughout Hertfordshire, we pride ourselves on professional support and equipment you can depend on. Our team in Hemel Hempstead is on hand to advise you on the right cherry picker for your specific requirements, ensuring maximum reach, stability, and safety. From short-term hires to longer projects, we deliver cost-effective access solutions backed by expert knowledge and a commitment to quality service.
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