Glossary term
What is Open-face notch?
Short answer
An open-face notch is a wide face cut, usually around 70 degrees or more, that stays open longer so the hinge holds as the tree falls.
Open-face notch, explained for tree service owners
An open-face notch is a face cut opened wide, often about 70 degrees or more. Because the notch is wide, the tree has more room to fall before the notch closes, and the hinge keeps guiding the tree for longer. That gives better control, especially on larger trees or trees on a slope. It may also lower the risk of a barber chair, a dangerous split up the trunk. Many crews use this notch on larger trees. For a tree service owner, this is the kind of detail that supports safety talks: the crew has a reason for each cut and can explain it clearly to a customer.
Related terms
- Conventional notch
A conventional notch is a wedge cut with a flat bottom and a sloped top that guides a tree to fall in a set direction.
- ANSI Z133
ANSI Z133 is the American national safety standard for tree care operations, such as climbing, rigging, chipping and working near power…
- Back cut
A back cut is the final cut made on the opposite side of the notch that frees the tree to fall, leaving the hinge intact.
- Chainsaw chaps
Chainsaw chaps are cut-resistant leg guards that clog a saw chain if it touches the leg, giving time to stop.
- Chipper feed rollers
Chipper feed rollers are the powered rollers at the chute that pull branches into the blades at a steady pace.
- Climbing spikes
Climbing spikes are sharp metal points strapped to a climber's boots that bite into the trunk, used mainly on trees being removed.
- Drop zone
A drop zone is the marked area on the ground where cut branches and wood are expected to fall, kept clear of people.
- Experience modification rate
An experience modification rate (EMR) is a number that raises or lowers your workers' comp cost based on your past claims compared with…
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