Decisions over use of machinery are usually dictated by factors of cost and access. Footpath work can involve hard labour, especially in transport of materials, which machines can usually do more efficiently. When considering the use of a machine on a task involving volunteers, bear in mind the following points.
- The machine must only be operated by a trained or skilled person. Insurance cover must be arranged, through TCV, the hire company or insurance agent.
- Will the machine present a hazard to volunteers? Can the machine work be finished before the volunteers arrive on site, or if not, can the volunteers work at a safe and quiet distance from the machine?
- If the job is only possible with the use of a machine, is it really suitable for volunteer labour?
- Will the volunteers simply be ‘slaves’ to serve the machine, or will it take away much of the drudgery and leave volunteers free to do more skilled and constructive work?
- The conservation of the landscape is a primary aim. Will the machine damage more than it helps mend?
Details of specialist suppliers are given here. Most machines are also available on hire. Look under ‘Contractors Plant and Machinery Hire’ in the Yellow Pages telephone directory.
- Chainsaw. Only trained and qualified operators should use chainsaws. TCV has Policy and Code of Practice for chainsaw use which is compulsory for all its own projects and those of any affiliated group where TCV insurance cover is in operation. Further reading recommended by the policy include Forestry Industry Guide FSC10 and the Agricultural Safety Leaflet AS20.
- Brush cutter.
- Power carriers. These are tracked barrows, powered by a 4 or 5.5 horsepower engine, and useful for moving pitching stone and other bulky and heavy materials over rough ground. Loads of up to 500kg can be carried on level ground, equivalent to 10 times the capacity of a wheelbarrow. They have low ground pressure tracks which cause little damage to soft ground, and can climb gradients of up to 25 degrees. They can also negotiate a properly constructed stone cross drain without damage to the drain or machine. They are manufactured by Honda, from whom a list of local suppliers is available.
- Dumper truck. On suitable ground that is not too soft, these can be invaluable for transporting surfacing materials. They do not handle as expected by a car driver, and should only be driven by trained volunteers.
- Quad, All Terrain Vehicle (ATV), or ‘farm bike’. These vehicles have a low ground pressure, less per wheel than that of a person’s footprint, and are widely used in farming, forestry and countryside management. Many accessories are available, including trailers, flail and rotary mowers, sprayers and weed wipes, winches, log trailers and skids. The larger four wheel drive models have a towing capacity of 500kg. Manufacturers include Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha and Kawasaki. Available from agricultural machinery suppliers. Lantra can provide training.
- Argo multi-purpose vehicles. All-terrain amphibious vehicles, with load capacities from 327kg to 450kg. Lightweight design and low ground pressure minimise ground damage.
- Helicopters. Used for moving heavy and bulky materials onto sites where there is either no alternative method, or where ground transport would cause unacceptable damage. Helicopter airlifts avoid the need to build paths wide enough and strong enough for ground vehicles to transport materials from roadside to trailhead. They are proving cost effective for path construction on deep peat and other upland areas. Materials transported include pitching stone and aggregate in bags or hoppers, flagstones in slings or cradles, and bridge components. Mini-excavators and other plant can also be airlifted. Used in the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, Scotland and elsewhere. All operations involving helicopter airlifts must be carefully planned to avoid risk to people on the ground. Pilots and ground teams must be properly briefed concerning safe working practices.
- Vibrator roller or vibrating plate, for compacting surfacing material.
- Grader. This is a tractor-mounted blade for making cross falls on path surfaces.
- Excavator, for clearance, drainage and surfacing work.
- Generator to supply any power tools needed for bridge building. It will normally be hired with tools to suit, but check that the voltage supply is correct for the tools required.
- Compressor. This is needed for heavy duty air-powered tools such as rock breakers. Vehicle access to the site is necessary, as compressors are very heavy.
- ‘Atom’ chainsaw drill attachment, for drilling holes in wood, steel or masonry. Can be fitted to most makes of chainsaw. Available from suppliers of forestry equipment.
- Rock drill, such as the Pionjar 120 which is petrol driven and weighs 26kg. It can be carried to inaccessible sites on a pack frame. Available from specialist tool hire firms. Hydraulic rock breakers can be used on sites where a power carrier or vehicle can be used to transport the generator.
