Specialist Grapple
Saw Tree Removal &
Heavy Lifting Services
Supporting Infrastructure, Utility and Principal Contractor Projects
Goblin Grapple Saw provides mechanised tree removal utilising specialised grapple saw capabilities for infrastructure, utility and commercial projects where conventional arboricultural methods are impractical or present increased operational risk. Operating as a specialist arboricultural subcontractor, Goblin supports principal contractors, local authorities and utility providers on complex sites requiring controlled, efficient and safety led tree works. The grapple saw system allows large sections of timber to be securely held, cut and removed in a controlled manner, providing a safer and more efficient method for dismantling large or hazardous trees. This mechanised approach reduces manpower requirements, improves site safety and supports reliable programme delivery on technically demanding projects.
Our Services
Mechanised Tree Removal
Heavy Lifting Services
What is a Crane Truck Mounted Grapple Saw
A crane truck mounted grapple saw is a specialist attachment fitted to a hydraulic crane on a lorry. It combines a powerful grab and a chainsaw cutting unit in one machine head.
The attachment grips a section of tree or timber, cuts through it, and holds it securely at the same time. Once cut, the crane operator can lift and place the section exactly where it is needed rather than allowing it to fall uncontrolled.
This allows trees to be dismantled in a controlled, mechanised way from the ground using a crane, rather than relying on climbers cutting sections that must fall or be rigged down manually. UK industry guidance such as FISA Safety Guide 608 recognises grapple saws as a mechanised method of tree dismantling used with cranes or excavators.
Why use a Grapple Saw?
| A grapple saw provides a mechanised approach to tree dismantling, allowing large sections of timber to be securely held, cut and removed under controlled conditions. This method is particularly effective on sites where conventional arboricultural techniques are impractical due to access constraints, safety considerations or operational risk. | By maintaining control of timber during cutting and removal, grapple saw operations help reduce the potential for uncontrolled movement and improve overall site safety. This level of control is especially valuable when working near infrastructure, buildings, highways or other sensitive environments. |
| Mechanised tree removal can also improve efficiency on larger or more complex projects. The ability to safely dismantle and remove sections of timber in a controlled sequence can reduce time on site and support reliable delivery on projects operating within defined working windows. | Grapple saw systems are commonly used on infrastructure and commercial sites, including highway corridors, utilities environments, construction sites and estates where safety, planning and precision are critical to successful project delivery. |
Why it is Safer than Traditional Methods?
Tree work is recognised as a high risk activity in the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive, the main causes of serious injury and fatalities in arboriculture involve chainsaws, falls from height, and being struck by falling trees or branches.
A crane mounted grapple saw reduces exposure to these risks in several ways.
Removes the need for climbers in hazardous trees
Work can be carried out from the ground using the crane rather than placing a person in the canopy.
Controls the timber during the cut
The attachment holds the section before it is cut, preventing uncontrolled falling material.
Allows planned lifting operations
Works are carried out under formal lift planning and equipment inspection regimes in line with LOLER and PUWER requirements.
Reduces workforce exposure beneath the tree
Fewer people are required within the drop zone compared with traditional dismantling methods.
The result is a more controlled process that aligns with the hierarchy set out in UK arboricultural guidance which encourages avoiding work at height where reasonably practicable.
When this Type of Machinery is Used?
Crane truck mounted grapple saws are a specialised piece of equipment used on complex or higher risk sites where conventional climbing or dismantling would introduce unnecessary danger or disruption, or to drastically increase work site efficiency and decrease the time a job takes to complete.
Typical situations include:
Diseased or structurally compromised trees
Trees affected by decay or conditions such as ash dieback that could fail unpredictably during climbing.
Trees next to highways or public infrastructure
Where controlled removal is required to protect traffic, pedestrians or property.
Time critical infrastructure works
Sites where road closures, rail possessions or restricted working windows require efficient, controlled removal.
Tight urban environments
Locations with buildings, gardens, railways or utilities where there is no safe space for timber to fall.
Large or hazardous trees
Where the size, lean or condition of the tree makes manual dismantling slow or high risk.
In these situations, the crane and grapple saw combination allows sections to be cut, lifted and placed with precision, providing a safer and more predictable method of tree removal for commercial and infrastructure projects.
Goblin Grapple Saw & Lifting Services | Goblin Grapple Saw & Lifting Ltd 