Steve Bullman

ECHO has launched the CS-621SX heavy-duty rear handle chainsaw. The new saw is a reduced emissions version of their best-selling CS-620SX, yet it retains all the power and dependability of its predecessor. This is a chainsaw built for arborists and landscaping professionals who use this type of saw daily for felling large trees. The CS-621SX boasts a new 59.8cc low emission, professional-grade 2-stroke ECHO engine, designed and manufactured in Japan. It is the latest chainsaw in the ECHO X-series of ‘Best in Class’ products which aim to be industry-leading in terms of power and performance. The saw is packed with advanced features to help the commercial operator power through their work. For a heavy-duty saw, it is surprisingly lightweight at only 6.3kg (dry weight) but that doesn’t take anything away from its cutting performance, which exceeds that of many higher capacity machines. Its balance and ergonomic design offer manoeuvrability and precision, with dual bumper spikes enabling better control when sawing through stumps and thicker branches. The CS-621SX is a superior saw in every respect, say ECHO, with its range of additional features designed to make the working day easier and more productive. There’s a decompression button for easy starting, a side-access chain tensioner and drop prevention nuts which can’t be lost during maintenance. A rotating plastic chain catcher is designed to help protect the user from potential injury while also preventing chain damage. The heavy-duty aluminum handle has a secure rubber grip and reduces vibration in the hand. Fuel and oil caps are made larger for easier filling and the fuel tank is translucent to show the fuel level. The ‘G-FORCE’ air cleaner system features a large air filter to keep out debris. It all adds up to a powerful, durable and heavy-duty chainsaw built to ECHO’s usual exacting specifications, which is borne out by a two-year professional or five-year domestic warranty. You can find out more from your local authorised ECHO dealer. You can also visit www.echo-tools.co.uk or call 01844 278800 for more information.

The Arboricultural Association has issued an update following industry feedback on the draft ‘Industry Code of Practice for Arboriculture (Tree Work at Height)’. Thank you to over 170 professionals who took the time to review and provide detailed feedback on the draft Industry Code of Practice (ICoP) consultation which closed on Friday 17th January. The revision of the ICoP will continue, utilising feedback from the comprehensive consultation process; however it has now been agreed with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) that Arboriculture should take a different approach to other Work At Height industries, because trees are three dimensional, organic structures, which require a variety of different climbing techniques and systems to achieve safe, efficient working. The new definition of what is required for Arboriculture now references “Personal Fall Protection Systems” (PFPS) and essentially states that a Personal Fall Protection System must be used at all times for tree work, (i.e.: your primary system for working in the tree, whether that is SRT or DRT) and a secondary backup must also be used in case of failure of the primary system. This is regardless of whether an Arborist is ascending, descending or moving around the tree and can be a combination of systems. There will be certain circumstances where it will be acceptable to omit the backup for short-duration tasks. These will be detailed in the forthcoming ‘Technical Guide 1: Tree Climbing & Aerial Rescue’, designed to replace both the ‘Guide to Good Climbing Practice’ and ‘AFAG 401/402’. Until detailed guidance becomes available the Association recommends climbers continue to climb following current safe practice, using 2 lines wherever practicable; but without trialing techniques and equipment which are unproven. The safety of our workforce should remain everybody’s priority. We envisage the revised ICoP being published in April 2020, to be followed by the draft Technical Guide 1 which, after a further consultation process, will be published in the summer. The Arboricultural Association will keep the industry and all stakeholders informed throughout the coming months. See previous updates

STIHL continues to expand its range of high-performance mowers with the introduction of the new RMA 765 V, a professional cordless mower with a 63cm cutting width, ideal for landscapers tackling large grass cutting jobs. Powered by a 36V high capacity Lithium-Ion batteries from the STIHL PRO cordless system, the robust RMA 765 V is ideal for work in noise-sensitive areas and is highly manoeuvrable thanks to the zero turn function of the front wheels. Both front and rear wheels are height adjustable from 25mm-100mm. The new mower boasts an innovative five-speed control panel, featuring an eco-mode and a battery power level indicator to ensure professional users have full sight of the performance of the machine at a quick glance. The ergonomic mono-comfort handlebar, with super soft grip, is adjustable to three different heights, allowing users to find the most suitable setting and providing easier access to the grass catcher box. Designed with strength, weight and protection in mind, the aluminium and polymer hybrid housing features front, side and gearbox protection, as well as the polymer inner housing being impact and abrasion resistant. In addition, the 63cm cutting deck utilises synchronised multi-blades that lift the grass, cut it efficiently and blow the grass cuttings into the grass catcher bag. Thanks to the optimised design shape and air guide, the 80 litre bag can be 100% filled, while the combination of tear resistant fabric, polymer base and steel frame ensure the catcher box is hard wearing. Designed with a foldable handlebar, the STIHL RMA 765 V cordless mower is easy for landscapers to transport and convenient to store. Additional features include a diagnostic connection for servicing and a safety key required for operation. For more information please visit www.stihl.co.uk.