A tree risk assessment is a tool used to identify potential hazards posed by trees. It is based on an evaluation of the tree’s size, condition, location and history.
The first step in conducting a tree risk assessment is to identify the hazard. The most common hazards posed by trees are falling branches, falling trees and root failure.
Once the hazard has been identified, the next step is to assess the likelihood of it occurring. This is done by considering the tree’s size, condition and location. For example, a large tree in poor condition is more likely to fall than a small tree in good condition.
After the likelihood of the hazard occurring has been assessed, the next step is to assess the consequences if it does occur. This includes considering what could be damaged or injured if the hazard did occur. For example, a falling branch could damage cars or injure people walking underneath it.
Once all of this information has been considered, a decision can be made about whether or not to remove the tree or take other action to reduce the risk it poses.