Using a tree jack

FISA Technical Note 001

September 2025 - the TN has been updated with higher quality photos; updated text around ‘when not to use a tree-jack’; and updated QR codes on final page

Advice from the Chainsaw Working Group aimed at Operators is summarised in this document. These are general guidelines and set out advice at the date of issue; they may not be relevant to your situation or site and it is necessary to use common sense when applying them. A full glossary of terms used is found at the end of the document.

Jacking is a method of causing the controlled fall of a tree against its natural lean or weighting.

A jack can provide a greater controlled mechanical advantage than wedges or a breaking bar. However, these advantages come with additional hazards if the equipment is used without good assessment and planning or in inappropriate situations.

This is a LIVE document and industry comments/feedback is welcome, please email technical@ukfisa.com.