29 Aug 25
The Xwatch XW4 system was recently installed on a Fuchs MHL 420 with telescopic arm, supplied by Blue Machinery (Scotland) for Ayrshire Tree Surgeons. The installation, carried out by Tom DaCosta, adds precise height and slew control to the machine, protecting both operator and equipment during demanding tree work.
The use of excavators in mechanised arboriculture has grown rapidly, and with it the importance of safety compliance. In 2021, the Forestry Industry Safety Accord (FISA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) confirmed that mechanical tree work with an excavator comes under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER). This ruling placed clear responsibilities on operators and contractors to ensure risk assessments, load charts, examinations, and strict processes are in place.
Ayrshire Tree Surgeons, a respected name in Scotland with more than 18 years’ experience, has long championed high standards in safety and operations. Partnering with Blue Machinery (Scotland), a leading provider of materials processing and handling equipment across sectors from quarrying and demolition to forestry and arboriculture, ATS has invested in Xwatch technology to strengthen compliance and raise safety levels across its fleet.
The XW4 provides accurate monitoring and restriction of height and slew movements, with feather-touch proportional hydraulic control. In environments where margins are tight and risks are high, it provides operators and contractors with the assurance that work can be carried out safely, efficiently, and in compliance with LOLER.
Jemma Dycer Hopkins, Operations Manager at Xwatch, said: “It’s great to see Ayrshire Tree Surgeons investing in the XW4 for their Fuchs 420. Safety and compliance are central to their operations, and this system provides them withthe control and reassurance they need. Thanks to Ross Kellett and the Blue Group team for the support and business.”
Jemma added: “Tom smashed this install – it’s always a little trickier working on a telescopic arm, and adjustments need to be made, but he handled it brilliantly. We’ve got the best engineers in the business, and this job is another example of the standard they deliver.”
