Which action is part of assessing risks?

The action of identifying risks and selecting control measures is a fundamental aspect of risk assessment in the context of arboriculture. This process involves systematically evaluating potential risks that trees may pose to their surroundings, including the likelihood of failure, the potential consequences, and the overall health of the tree.

Identifying risks involves observing factors such as tree species, age, structural integrity, and environmental conditions that could contribute to hazards, such as falling branches or whole tree failure. Once these risks are identified, selecting appropriate control measures follows. This could include options like pruning, installing support systems, or even removing a tree if it poses an unacceptable risk. The goal is to manage these risks proactively to minimize the likelihood of damage or injury, thereby ensuring both public safety and the health of the urban tree canopy.

Prioritizing tree needs and focusing solely on aesthetics, while important, do not directly contribute to risk assessment, and eliminating all hazards is rarely feasible. Instead, a balanced approach to identifying risks and implementing suitable control measures is essential for effective tree management.