The Greater Accra Regional Office of the Forest Services Division (FSD) has initiated a four-day training programme on the safe and efficient operation of chainsaws for technical staff within the Greater Accra Region.
The training brought together some Forest Guards and Forest Range Managers from the Greater Accra Regional Office, Amasaman and Tema/Ada District Offices. It was initiated in response to the growing demands for chainsaw services by patrons of urban forestry in the Region and the need to strengthen the capacity of FC personnel to undertake chainsaw-related operations safely and efficiently.
Speaking on the purpose of the exercise, the Greater Accra Regional Manager, Rev. Jonathan Obour-Wiredu, explained that under the law, individuals who wish to fell trees within their homes or on their properties are required to contact the Forestry Commission (FC) for a technical assessment at a prescribed fee. Following the assessment, the Commission makes a recommendation on whether the tree should be pruned or felled, and the requisite permit is issued to authorise the activity.
He noted, however, that after obtaining the necessary permits, patrons often approach the Commission for assistance to safely and professionally fell the trees which the Commission currently does not provide.
In response to the growing demand and following consultations with the Executive Director of the Forest Services Division (FSD), Dr. Gordon Kofi Sarfo- Adu , the Greater Accra Regional Office initiated the training programme. “The purpose is not only to equip field staff with this skill but also to create another avenue to generate revenue for the Commission,” Rev. Obour-Wiredu stated.
Rev. Obour-Wiredu further explained that improper tree-felling could result in serious damage to property and endanger human lives. He therefore stressed the need for competent personnel to undertake or supervise such operations, noting that tree felling should not be treated simply as cutting down a tree, but as a technical activity requiring appropriate techniques, planning and strict adherence to safety precautions.
The Regional Human Resource Officer, Mrs. Faustina Osei, in her address, encouraged participants to actively engage in all aspects of the training, stressing that their participation would contribute to the success of the initiative and ultimately benefit the Commission.
The programme combined theoretical and practical sessions, with support from internal trainers and external experts. The sessions were facilitated by the Regional Manager, Rev. Jonathan Obour-Wiredu; the Greater Accra Deputy Regional Manager, Mrs. Winifred Ohene – Wiafe; an engineer from the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Mr. David Mensah Abudey; and a Resource Guard from the Amasaman District Office; Mr. Charles Obeng, who brought in technical and practical experience in chainsaw operations to the program.
Participants were trained in chainsaw components and functions, personal protective equipment (PPE) usage, pre-start safety checks, safe handling techniques, maintenance and effective tree-felling procedures.
The training also focused on key safety practices, including proper use of the chain brake, maintaining a two-hand grip, avoiding the chainsaw’s kickback zone, ensuring stable footing and keeping bystanders at a safe distance. Participants were further equipped with skills in assessing trees and work sites, planning escape routes, and safely retreating once a tree begins to fall.
Maintenance and regulatory compliance also formed part of the training, with participants receiving guidance on chain sharpening, lubrication, equipment inspection, site assessment, exclusion zones and ensuring that the necessary felling permits and other regulatory requirements are met.
At the end of the exercise, Rev. Obour-Wiredu also cautioned participants to consider the cultural and spiritual significance that some trees may have in certain communities. He advised that the necessary consultations and enquiries should be made from opinion or traditional leaders before felling such trees, even when the necessary permit had been obtained.
Participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their successful completion of the programme, as well as the knowledge and practical skills acquired in chainsaw operation.
The initiative is expected to strengthen the Region’s capacity to respond to the growing demands of urban forestry by equipping field personnel with specialised chainsaw operation skills. It will also promote safer and more professional tree-felling practices while enhancing the Commission’s ability to deliver effective services in accordance with established safety and regulatory standards. Discussions are underway to extend this initiative across all district and regional offices of the FSD
