Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to engage a qualified contractor to carry out pruning and/or removal of street trees in Worcester, ensuring safety, infrastructure protection, and aesthetic appeal. The work aims to mitigate risks posed by hazardous trees, maintain urban vegetation, and ensure compliance with safety standards and municipal regulations.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Pruning of street trees to maintain safe clearance from overhead power lines, specifically ensuring a minimum clearance of approximately 1.5 meters between the treetop and overhead lines.
• Removal of trees where necessary, including stump treatment and disposal at registered sites.
• Inspection of trees before and during work by qualified personnel.
• Adherence to safety procedures, including demarcation, signage, and traffic management.
• Coordination with municipal departments for electrical switching and permits.
• Disposal of branches and debris in accordance with municipal by-laws.
• Completion of work within a specified period of 3 weeks after receipt of the order.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements encompass:

• Registration with the Department of Labour for Compensation and a valid Letter of Good Standing.
• Qualified and experienced personnel, including certified chainsaw operators and safety officers.
• Use of appropriate PPE and safety equipment, with valid certificates.
• Implementation of minimum safe working clearances around energized overhead lines, as per SABS 0280 standards.
• Visual inspection of trees by qualified arborists or trained personnel prior to and during pruning activities.
• Pruning to specific objectives: cleaning, thinning, raising, reduction, and removal, with adherence to specified size and location parameters.
• Proper demarcation, signage, and traffic control measures to ensure public safety.
• Compliance with electrical switching procedures, including obtaining permits and ensuring power is safely isolated before work near live equipment.

Skills Requirements

The successful contractor must possess:

• Proven experience in street tree pruning and removal projects, with references and evidence of completed similar works.
• Qualified personnel with relevant certifications in arboriculture, tree felling, and safety standards.
• Competence in operating chainsaws, climbing equipment, and other tree maintenance tools.
• Knowledge of municipal safety regulations, electrical safety protocols, and environmental legislation.
• Ability to prepare and implement risk assessments, emergency plans, and safety procedures.
• Capability to coordinate with municipal departments for electrical switching, permits, and site access.
• Effective debris management and disposal skills, ensuring environmental compliance.