Landscape gardener died after being hit by falling tree trunk in Stonehaven

A landscape gardener died after being hit by a falling tree trunk in Aberdeenshire.

Andrew Pirie died at the scene in Dunnottar, Stonehaven, following the accident on June 25, 2020.

The 53-year-old was struck and killed while within the “drop zone” near the base of the mature ash tree as it was being taken down by a tree surgeon.

A Fatal Accident Inquiry heard how the “much-loved” husband, father, and brother had been approached by a landowner neighbour regarding the taking down of the trees, which were posing a hazard to a nearby road.

Mr Pirie recommended Scott Menhinick undertake the job while he and his employee would remove the cut timber from the “drop zone” where it was expected to fall, to either be placed in a wood chipper or cut into smaller pieces using a chainsaw.

Around two hours into the tree being taken down, a section of the trunk cut by Mr Menhinick fell to the ground while Mr Pirie was within the drop zone, striking him on the head and torso. He passed away at the scene.

Sheriff Andrew Miller found that Mr Pirie’s death could have been avoided if the “drop zone” had been clearly identified by Mr Menhinick, physically marked, and properly supervised, with reliable communication between the climber and ground crew, and safer methods used to control falling timber.

He concluded that the evidence “points to the conclusion that the work by Mr Menhinick was not carried out safely”.

The Sheriff recommended that the Arboricultural Association increase industry awareness of its Industry Code of Practice for Arboriculture: Tree Work at Height, especially guidance on site conditions and consider whether the Code requires revision in light of the circumstances of the incident.

He added: “I did not accept as credible and reliable [Mr Menhinick]’s evidence to the effect that he gathered the others together at the base of the tree before he commenced cutting, pointed out the drop zone, told the others not to enter the drop zone whilst his chainsaw was running, and told them only to enter the drop zone when his chainsaw had been switched off and he had given a “double thumbs up” hand signal.

“I prefer the evidence of [the landowner and employee] that there was no such discussion prior to the commencement of the work.

“It was clear to me during the inquiry hearing that Andrew Pirie, known as Andy, was a much-loved husband, father, brother and friend who was devoted to his family.

“His family continue to be profoundly affected by his tragic and untimely death.

“I wish to extend the court’s condolences to Mr Pirie’s family, who have suffered the loss of Mr Pirie in these most tragic and unfortunate circumstances.”