What the RR668 Rigging Research Really Means for Arborists
Practical lessons for tree surgery training, rigging, and safer decision-making
Rigging is a core part of modern tree surgery, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood areas of arboriculture. Over the years, the HSE research report RR668 has been widely referenced — and just as widely misinterpreted.
At Ground Up Training, we believe research should inform better practice, not create confusion or fear. This article explains what RR668 actually tells us, what it doesn’t, and how arborists can apply its findings sensibly through proper tree surgery training and rigging education.
Whether you’re a working climber, ground staff member, or involved in arborist training, this is about understanding forces — not memorising numbers.
What Is RR668 and Why Does It Matter in Tree Surgery Training?
RR668 is an HSE-commissioned research report that examined the forces generated during rigging operations, particularly where dynamic lowering techniques are used.
Its aim was to:
measure forces under controlled conditions
understand how variables such as drop distance and system stiffness affect load
improve awareness of rigging-related risk
It was not written as a set of rules for arborists — but as research to inform safer decision-making.
What RR668 Was (and Wasn’t) Testing
Understanding the context of the research is critical for arborists.
RR668 used:
controlled test rigs
known weights
measured drop distances
fixed anchor points
This allowed researchers to isolate variables and study force behaviour.
RR668 did not test:
flexible tree unions
natural damping within living trees
varied timber shapes
human factors such as communication and timing
This distinction matters greatly in tree surgery training.
Key RR668 Findings Arborists Should Understand
Dynamic Forces Increase Rapidly
Small increases in slack or drop distance can cause large increases in force. This reinforces:
careful cut planning
minimising free fall
understanding how rope systems behave
System Stiffness Plays a Major Role
Stiffer systems typically generate higher peak forces. Rope choice, configuration, and technique all influence how energy is absorbed.
This is why rigging training is about understanding systems — not just equipment.
Anchor Points Experience Significant Loads
RR668 confirms that anchors can experience forces greater than the weight of the load, especially during poorly controlled catches.
This highlights the importance of:
anchor selection
union inspection
positioning and load path awareness
What RR668 Does Not Say
One of the most important lessons for arborists and trainers:
RR668 does not:
ban dynamic rigging
provide universal safe working limits for trees
replace professional judgement
account for every site-specific variable
Research supports best practice — it does not replace experience or competence.
Practical Rigging Takeaways for Working Arborists
For Climbers
Reduce unnecessary slack wherever possible
Choose anchor points deliberately
Think about load path, not just weight
For Ground Staff
Smooth, controlled catches reduce peak forces
Communication timing matters
Poor technique increases load unpredictability
For Supervisors and Trainers
Teach why techniques matter
Encourage planning and discussion before cuts
Focus on decision-making, not rigid rules
These principles sit at the heart of professional tree surgery training.
Why Proper Rigging Training Matters in Tree Surgery
Reading research alone does not make anyone safer. Applying it through training does.
Courses like our Aerial Tree Rigging Course help arborists:
understand forces intuitively
apply research to real trees
develop safer rigging habits through practice
Good rigging comes from knowledge, experience, and structured training — not fear of figures.
Rigging Within a Wider Arborist Training Pathway
Rigging skills sit alongside climbing, aerial rescue, and machinery operation.
A typical progression includes:
Rigging and dismantling training
Structured development via Arborist Training Packages
Understanding research like RR668 fits naturally within professional arborist training.
Research Informs Judgement — It Doesn’t Replace It
RR668 reinforces one key principle:
Safe rigging is about informed decision-making, not fixed limits.
Trees vary. Sites differ. Conditions change. That’s why education, training, and planning remain essential.
At Ground Up Training, we train arborists to understand why techniques work — not just how to copy them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is RR668 in arboriculture?
RR668 is an HSE research report examining forces generated during rigging operations. It helps arborists understand how loads behave during dynamic lowering.
Does RR668 ban dynamic rigging?
No. RR668 provides research data, not rules. It highlights how forces behave, not what techniques arborists must or must not use.
Is RR668 relevant to everyday tree surgery?
Yes — when used correctly. It improves understanding of forces, anchor selection, and planning, but must be applied alongside training and experience.
Why is rigging training important for tree surgeons?
Rigging training helps arborists apply research safely, understand system behaviour, and make better on-site decisions.
Final Thoughts
RR668 is valuable research — when used responsibly.
Its real value lies in:
reinforcing good rigging practice
supporting structured tree surgery training
encouraging thoughtful, informed decision-making
Used correctly, it helps raise standards across the industry — exactly what professional arborist training should do.
