BS3998 Compliant Tree Surgeons

When you choose to use Browns Landscape Solutions LTD, you are choosing contractor who works to BS3998. But what does this mean for you and how does working to this standard help our clients and customers?

What is BS3998?

BS 3998 is the British Standard (BSI) for tree work — recommendations, providing guidance on the best practice for the pruning, care and maintenance of trees. It sets out principles for safe, appropriate and horticulturally sound work to protect tree health, minimise risk, and ensure legal and environmental responsibilities are met. The standard is used by arborists, contractors, local authorities and landowners to inform decisions about pruning techniques, tree support and aftercare, and to assess tree condition and risk.

• Scope: Guidance on operations such as pruning, felling, crown reduction, crown lifting, deadwood removal and remedial work; not a legal statute but widely adopted as best practice.

• Objectives: Protect tree health, promote safe working practices, conserve amenity value and biodiversity, and reduce risk to people and property.

• Methods: Recommends diagnostic assessment, use of appropriate pruning cuts, avoiding excessive or harmful pruning, and favouring natural crown form where possible.

• Health & Safety: Advises on safe working methods, contractor competence, site management and risk assessment.

• Tree condition assessment: Encourages inspection for pests, disease, structural defects and root or soil issues prior to operations.

• Compatibility: Should be read alongside other guidance (e.g. wildlife protection, planning/tree preservation orders) and with consideration of site-specific constraints.