Chainsaw Use And Safety Precautions
If you have a basic understanding of the petrol chainsaw and how it is intended to be used, then you are a long way towards reducing, or even eliminating, any nasty surprises such as kickback or any other unexpected chainsaw reactions. As well as this you should be able to also maximize the life and performance of the chainsaw and any of it’s cutting attachments and components.
Operating Manual. When you buy a new chainsaw it will always be supplied with an operator’s manual. It is not there for show or packaging. This operation manual must be read thoroughly and absorbed. You need to know how to work your chainsaw properly and all the safety precautions you need to heed to.
Fatigue. If you are tired do not operate a chainsaw. We all like to take a drink now and then but never operate a chainsaw under the influence of alcohol. The same can be said when using prescription medicine. You want to be fresh and clear headed when it comes to working with a chainsaw.
Safety Wear. Always wear the correct safety gear. You want good boots, snug fitting clothing, gloves and ear, eye and head protection.
Wood Pinching. When cutting wood with a chainsaw it can pinch and close in on the chain. The push force that is exerted when pinched can add to the pull force of the chain. So when you pull the chain you may actually pull it in to your body.
Cutting Brush. When you use the chainsaw to cut small brush etc be very vigilant. This small and slender matter could catch in the chainsaw chain and be whipped out towards you or disrupt your balance.
Pets. These can be a distraction and also enter the working area. Trouble beckons! Also ensure that no persons are walking or standing in the working vicinity.
Body Parts. Always keep all body parts away from the chainsaw cutting chain whilst the engine is running.
Damaged Chainsaw. Under no circumstances ever operate a chainsaw that is damaged. This rule also applies to chainsaws that are not maintained properly or incomplete in assembly. Also always ensure that the chain will stop when the throttle is released
Sharpening. If you sharpen the chainsaw yourself always follow the manufacturers instructions..
Chainsaw Parts. When it comes to replacing parts on your chainsaw only use chainsaw parts that are specified by the manufacturer. Poor or incorrect parts can cause under performance as well as being a safety risk.
Chain Tension. Always ensure that you have the correct chain tension when using your chainsaw. A chain that is too loose can come off and strike you. A chain that is too tight can snap.
Fuel. Whenever handling chainsaw fuel always apply caution. Keep the chainsaw at a distance from the fuel before starting it. Never smoke when refueling and only use the petrol chainsaw in well ventilated areas.
Chainsaw Use. The chainsaw has been designed to only cut wood. Do not use it to cut other materials and keep it out of contact with rocks and dirt.
Blunt Chain. Never try to force a dull chain to cut. When the chainsaw chain is sharp it will feed itself in to the wood and only require light pressure to cut the wood efficiently. A dull chain will produce fine wood dust, so when you see this you know it is time for a sharpening.
Maintenance. Always ensure the correct chain tension and proper lubrication to get the maximum from your chain and bar.
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Grip. When working with the chainsaw it is important that you hold the chainsaw firmly and securely. Even if you are left handed grip the chainsaw in a right handed stance. The right hand holds the rear handle and the left hand the front handle. By having a firm grip you will maintain better control of the petrol chainsaw. The handles on the chainsaw should always be kept dry and clean as well as free from any oil or fuel to prevent any slipping.
Chainsaw Speed. Any chainsaw has been designed to run at full speed. In order to achieve maximum cut always have a full throttle setting. The job will be done quicker and there will be less fatigue.
Positioning with a chainsaw. Always stand slightly to the side of where you are cutting. By doing this you are removing yourself out of the plane of the chainsaw which reduces the risk of injury if you happen to lose control of the chainsaw.
Carrying a chainsaw. Never carry a chainsaw while it is running. Always turn it off. Also carry with the chain and bar facing the rear and the muffler away from your torso. When transporting a chainsaw always ensure that it is secure and cannot move around. A chainsaw guide bar scabbard should always be used to protect the chain.
Cutting Restrictions. When cutting with a chainsaw never over reach. You should not cut above shoulder height either. When the chainsaw is in awkward and unfamiliar positions it can prove to be extremely difficult to control.
Ladders. If you are not trained to do so never operate a chainsaw from a ladder or in a tree. You can easily lose balance.
Minimizing kickback risk. Ensure that the area you are working in does not have any obstructions. Do not let the tip of the guide bar come in to contact with a log or branch. Do not cut anywhere near chain fences.