European Chainsaw Standards (ECS)
Prior to establishment of an EU independent assessment specification (chainsaw test) a common European standard had to be developed. This involved a research & mapping exercise of the national standards used by various countries within the Leonardo EAICOC project. An understanding was gained of what an operator needed to know (knowledge) and actually do (practice). A common European set of standards then had to be adapted which incorporated the range in requirements between the various countries involved. A key factor in establishing these chainsaw standards was a consultation exercise and exchange of information. Without the standard a European chainsaw certificate (ECC) with its independent test could not be established.
European Chainsaw Certificate
Following the successful development of standards a range of independent chainsaw assessments were developed from chainsaw maintenance through to advanced felling/windblown techniques. Pilot tests have been undertaken alongside further evaluations in various countries. Consultation with the industry, further work on quality assurance, harmonisation within the European qualifications framework and the subsequent establishment of EFESC are ongoing.
| Category | Candidate Guide | Level | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chainsaw | Chainsaw Maintenance & Crosscutting | 1 | Under development |
| Basic Tree Felling | 2 | Under development | |
| Advanced Tree Felling | 3 | Under development | |
| Windblown Trees | 4 | Under development |