Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure tree pruning services at the Empangeni Swimming Pool. The work aims to promote tree health, structural integrity, safety, and aesthetic appeal by performing pruning, trimming, shaping, crown lifting, hazard reduction, and removal of dead wood from trees located at the specified site.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Pruning, trimming, shaping, and crown lifting of trees at the Empangeni Swimming Pool.
• Hazard reduction and removal of dead, broken, diseased, or dying branches.
• Collection, removal, chipping, or proper disposal of all branches, logs, and debris resulting from pruning.
• Specific pruning instructions such as clearance above roads (4.5 m) and pedestrian pathways (2.4 m), and height/spread reduction to meet safety or aesthetic standards.
• Ensuring minimal crown removal (not more than 25% per cycle unless directed).
• Use of approved arboriculture techniques, tools, and equipment, ensuring no damage to trees or surrounding infrastructure.
• Immediate cleanup and proper disposal of all debris, with on-site chipping permitted under noise and safety regulations.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Carrying out pruning to promote tree health, safety, and structural integrity.
• Performing hazard reduction pruning to remove branches posing immediate risks.
• Making clean, smooth cuts outside the branch collar, avoiding stub cuts or flush cuts.
• Using sharp, clean, and well-maintained tools; employing the three-cut method for large limbs.
• Climbing trees using approved arborist techniques; prohibition of spikes/spurs during pruning.
• Utilizing bucket trucks or aerial lifts where accessible.
• Ensuring no damage to tree bark, roots, or adjacent infrastructure.
• Maintaining public safety with barricades, cones, signage, and spotters.
• Immediate collection and removal of all pruned material and debris.
• Compliance with health and safety regulations, including PPE and certified chainsaw operators.
• Adherence to environmental disposal regulations, with approved disposal sites.

Skills Requirements

The contractor must:

• Employ qualified arborists or trained tree-workers.
• Ensure all staff are equipped with appropriate PPE: helmets, goggles, gloves, chainsaw trousers, safety boots.
• Hold valid competency certificates for chainsaw operators.
• Maintain equipment safely and in compliance with legal standards.
• Follow arboriculture best practices and safety procedures during all operations.
• Provide proper documentation, including experience, competency certificates, and insurance certificates.