European Chainsaw Certificate (ECC)
Project Info
Establishment of EFESC together with the development of the European Chainsaw Certification (ECC) is supported by the Leonardo da Vinci Programme - Transfer of Innovation from 2009-2011. Project title: "Evaluation and Implementation of Chainsaw Operators Certification" (Project Number 2009-1-GB2-LEO05-01413).
Rationale
The rationale behind this project has been the development of a common training standard and examination for chainsaw users throughout Europe. With the primary aims to:
- Reduce accidents & fatalities
- Reduce associated economic & personal costs related to accidents
- Improve & enhance operator skills and efficiency in the workplace
- Enhance operator mobility and employability throughout Europe
- Improve & expand delivery of existing vocational training and assessment standards
- Encourage & promote life-long learning and continuous professional development
A dangerous 'Barber Chair'
A graphic reminder why the European Chainsaw Certificate (ECC) is necessary!
An unexpected test...
An unexpected and very dangerous test of the effectiveness of chainsaw trousers
The potiential hazards...
Tree felling in a steep slope environment.
Cross-cutting large stems
Awareness of safe postion here is critical
Tasks
The project was designed into a series of work packages to be undertaken by the project team:
- WP1 - Management (deadlines met, budget controlled, problems solved, monitoring etc)
- WP2 - Mapping (research & analyse national standards and prepare draft EU standards)
- WP3 - Standard Setting (evaluate, refine & review the standards)
- WP4 - Industry Consultation (promote to target groups, survey & feedback to the standards)
- WP5 - Testing of Standards (undertake pilot tests and set verification & exam methods)
- WP6 - Quality Assurance (to review & manage examiners/structures and processes)
- WP7 - Dissemination (to ensure project communication & end product promotion)
Outcome
The production of high quality EU standards of assessment for the following:
- ECC Level 1: Chainsaw Maintenance & Crosscutting
- ECC Level 2: Basic Tree Felling
- ECC Level 3: Advanced Tree Felling
- ECC Level 4: Windblown Trees





