Publications and Resources
The National Tree Safety Group publishes and maintains guidance on the common sense risk management of trees in the UK for owners, managers and advisers.
NTSG Guidance
Hard copies of both the Full Guidance Publication and the Summary document are available to purchase from the Arboricultural Association's online book shop: www.trees.org.uk/Book-Shop
Common sense risk management of trees:
Full guidance
Second Edition, 2024
Nationally recognised guidance on tree-safety management in the UK. It is intended for anyone responsible for trees, including duty holders, who may be landowners of estates or smallholdings, householders, as well as those who manage, advise and work on trees.
Common sense risk management of trees: Summary
Second Edition, 2024
A summarised version of guidance on trees and public safety in the UK for owners, managers and advisers.
risk research
NTSG recognises the need to establish and build a robust evidence base to support tree risk management. The Group has previously commissioned research from the Centre for Decision Analysis and Risk Management (DARM), at Middlesex University.
This is in three parts: the first to determine the risk posed by trees, using existing data sources and collating information to one authoritative reference; the second to focus on the public perception of the risks posed by trees and tree failure; and finally the third – to estimate the costs and benefits of changing the approach to tree safety management.
Trees and the Risk of Harm
1st Part
This report is one part of a work package commissioned in 2008 by the National Tree Safety Group aimed at determining what would constitute a reasonable and appropriate inspection regime for trees in relation to public safety.
Risk perception and arboriculture
2nd Part
This report explores through a number of routes, based on government recommendations and academic research, the issue of public concern over the risk of injury posed by trees.
Costs and benefits of changing the approach to tree safety
3rd Part
This report estimates the costs and benefits of changing the approach to tree safety management and the role of local risk/benefit evaluation.