Firedamaged trees
Risks
Structural failure of compromised roots or trunk timber .
Struck-by injuries caused by failure of crown branches or stems .
Most structural defects – such as decay or cavities – can develop comparatively slowly . Living trees will compartmentalise the damaged sections , and put on adaptive growth to compensate for weaker areas .
Recent fire damage may result in trees that have been significantly damaged , and may fail in the near future with no opportunity to put on adaptive growth over time . Where there is damage to the structural timber and the fire has occurred recently , the degree of damage may be hard to assess , and the tree may be extremely hazardous to work with .
Control measures Investigate extent of fire damage .
Avoid loading if possible . Load test if possible .
Brace or guy if necessary .
Fungal fruiting bodies
Risks
Decay may significantly weaken the structural timber of the tree .
Structural failure may occur at low and unpredictable loads .
Fungal fruiting bodies are evidence of fungal infection and are predominantly found in dead and decaying timber .
Some species of fungi can compromise the structural integrity of a tree faster than the tree ’ s ability to produce new wood .
Control measures
Avoid loading if possible .
Look for evidence of adaptive growth in the tree .
Load test if possible .
Test the tree part by sounding with a mallet or using a simple drill test to determine extent of internal decay .
Brace , strap , cinch or guy if necessary .
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