Removing an unwanted, diseased or damaged tree is one thing, but removing the base is quite another. Stump grinding is a separate service from cutting and trimming due to the unique demands of the work. It requires specific equipment and a different process. Stump removal also has its own set of safety risks that need to be identified and mitigated to protect everyone involved in the operation.

1. Use the Right Tools

Tree service professionals use the right tools and equipment before grinding down a stump. Using the wrong tools can be dangerous to anyone within the immediate area. It can also increase the chances of injury.

2. Inspect the Work Site

Just like with tree trimming and pruning, professionals always investigate the entire work site before they make an action plan. They check the stump itself for signs of insect or animal life, particularly things like wasp nests, snakes or animal burrows. They also check soil stability around the stump to make sure it’s good enough to support the equipment.

3. Zone Off the Area

Zoning off the area is more about protecting other people than the grinding team. People who might come closer out of curiosity or simply to observe the operations don’t appreciate the risk of flying debris, dust and potential toxins. Professionals usually use cones, warning tape or other visible boundaries to keep observers at a safe distance.

4. Plan and Pause

Professionals often think about how to approach each grinding operation according to the scale, positioning and surrounding terrain. They also periodically pause to check on the progress of their work and adjust their next steps if necessary. Root systems aren’t always predictable and they may need to deal with unexpected obstacles, like buried rocks, before continuing.

5. Keep Emergency Supplies on Hand

There are a lot of potential risks involved in stump grinding, so it’s always good to be ready for the worst-case scenarios. Professional teams should always keep basic medical supplies on hand to conduct first aid in the event of an injury. Additionally, anyone with severe allergies to toxins or insects should have the appropriate tools to deal with anaphylactic shock.

Removing Stumps Without the Risk

Safety, efficiency and good results are why many people simply turn to a professional team to remove pesky stumps from their property. Residents in Harrisonburg, VA can rely on Potter’s Tree Service for exceptional stump removal solutions, so call today to learn more about our services.