Top 10 Questions for Feller Interview

1. What are the different types of felling techniques?

There are three main types of felling techniques:

• Conventional felling: This is the most common type of felling, where the tree is cut down using a chainsaw. The tree is felled in one piece, and the stump is left behind.
• Selective felling: This type of felling is used to remove specific trees from a stand, while leaving the remaining trees intact. The trees are selected based on their size, species, or other characteristics.
• Clear felling: This type of felling is used to remove all of the trees from a stand. It is typically used for land clearing purposes, such as for development or agriculture.

2. What are the key factors to consider when planning a felling operation?

Safety

• Identify and assess potential hazards, such as overhead power lines, unstable ground, and other obstacles.
• Establish safety zones around the felling area to keep personnel and equipment away from danger.

Tree assessment

• Determine the species, size, and condition of the tree to be felled.
• Identify any defects or weaknesses in the tree that could affect its stability.

Felling direction

• Choose a felling direction that is away from people, property, and other obstacles.
• Consider the slope of the ground and the presence of any nearby trees that could be damaged by the falling tree.

3. What are the different types of felling equipment?

• Chainsaws: Chainsaws are the most common type of felling equipment. They are powered by a gasoline engine and use a rotating chain to cut through the tree.
• Felling axes: Felling axes are used to manually fell trees. They are typically used for smaller trees or for trees that are difficult to reach with a chainsaw.
• Mechanical felling heads: Mechanical felling heads are attached to excavators or other heavy equipment. They use a hydraulically powered blade to cut through the tree.

4. What are the safety precautions that must be taken when using felling equipment?

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a hard hat, safety glasses, and ear protection.
• Inspect the felling equipment before each use to ensure that it is in good working condition.
• Never operate felling equipment under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep clear of other people and equipment.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the felling equipment.

5. What are the different methods for felling a tree?

• Undercut: The undercut is a notch cut into the base of the tree on the side where it is to fall. The undercut helps to direct the tree’s fall and prevent it from splitting or kicking back.
• Back cut: The back cut is a cut made on the opposite side of the tree from the undercut. The back cut is made parallel to the undercut and meets it at a point called the hinge. The hinge helps to control the tree’s fall.
• Felling: Once the undercut and back cut are made, the tree is ready to be felled. The tree is pushed or pulled in the direction of the undercut, and it will fall away from the hinge.

6. What are the potential hazards associated with felling operations?

• Falling trees: Falling trees can cause serious injury or death to people or damage property.
• Kickback: Kickback is a sudden and violent backward movement of a chainsaw that can occur when the tip of the chainsaw bar contacts an object.
• Pinch: Pinch is a situation where a tree falls and traps a person or piece of equipment between the tree and another object, such as a stump or a rock.
• Overhead hazards: Overhead hazards, such as power lines, can create a serious risk of electrical shock or electrocution.

7. What are the emergency procedures for felling operations?

• In the event of an emergency, stop work immediately and evacuate the felling area.
• Call for emergency medical assistance if anyone is injured.
• Report the incident to the supervisor and the appropriate authorities.
• Do not attempt to clear the felling area until it is safe to do so.

8. What are the environmental considerations for felling operations?

• Minimize soil disturbance: Avoid driving heavy equipment over sensitive areas, such as wetlands or steep slopes.
• Protect water quality: Keep felling debris out of streams and rivers.
• Dispose of felling debris properly: Follow local regulations for the disposal of felling debris.
• Preserve wildlife habitat: Leave standing snags and other features that provide habitat for wildlife.

9. What are the training and certification requirements for felling operations?

• Felling operators must be trained and certified in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
• Training must cover topics such as felling techniques, safety precautions, and emergency procedures.
• Certification is typically obtained through a combination of training and experience.

10. What is the future of felling operations?

• The future of felling operations is likely to see a continued emphasis on safety and sustainability.
• New technologies, such as drones and GPS-enabled equipment, are being developed to improve the safety and efficiency of felling operations.
• There is a growing trend towards using sustainable felling practices to minimize the environmental impact of felling operations.

Fellings are highly specialized workers responsible for felling trees in a safe and efficient manner. Their primary duties include:

1. Tree Assessment

Assessing trees to determine if they are healthy, hazardous, or need to be removed.

• Inspecting trees for signs of disease, decay, or damage
• Evaluating tree health, including root structure and canopy condition

2. Tree Felling

Safely and effectively felling trees using a variety of techniques and equipment.

• Planning and executing tree felling operations to minimize damage to surrounding property
• Using chainsaws, axes, and other specialized tools to fell trees

3. Debris Removal

Clearing felled trees and debris from the worksite.

• Trimming and removing branches from felled trees
• Preparing logs for removal or processing

4. Safety Management

Ensuring the safety of themselves and others during tree felling operations.

• Following established safety protocols and procedures
• Wearing appropriate safety gear

Preparing for an interview for a Feller position requires a combination of technical knowledge and practical experience. Here are some tips to help you ace your interview:

1. Research the Company and Position

Before the interview, research the company and specific Feller position you are applying for. This will help you understand the company’s culture, values, and specific requirements for the role.

• Visit the company’s website and social media pages.
• Review industry news and articles to gain insights into the company’s operations and market position.

2. Highlight Your Technical Skills

In your interview, be prepared to discuss your technical skills in detail. Demonstrate your proficiency in tree assessment, felling techniques, and safety protocols.

• Provide specific examples of your experience with different tree felling methods.
• Explain your understanding of tree biology and how it informs your felling decisions.

3. Emphasize Safety Consciousness

Safety is paramount in tree felling operations. Highlight your commitment to safety and your knowledge of industry best practices.

• Describe your experience with developing and implementing safety plans.
• Explain how you assess and mitigate risks during felling operations.

4. Show Your Enthusiasm and Passion

Tree felling is a physically demanding and often dangerous job. Interviewers will be looking for candidates who are passionate about the work and committed to performing it safely and efficiently.

• Share your reasons for pursuing a career in tree felling.
• Discuss your previous experiences that have ignited your interest in this field.