Chainsaw Safety - ProQual Landscaping

Safety & Training

Chainsaw Safety

Proper Instruction & Information Is Critical

Do not use any chainsaws without proper instruction; you are risking your safety as well as the safety of others by doing so. You must be properly trained to operate this equipment safely. Proper training must include a review of the operator’s manual and a skills evaluation to ensure you understand the features of this piece of equipment and can use it safely.

PPE Requirements

Legs: Chainsaw protective chaps or chainsaw protective pants
Body: Coveralls or long-sleeved shirt and pants. Clothing should not be too loose.
Feet: Steel-toed leather boots that are anti-slip and ankle height
Head: Hard hat and face shield, goggles or safety glasses must be worn underneath
Ears: Earplugs or muffs when operating or around noisy equipment
Hands: Heavy work gloves (leather or similar and anti-vibration)
Eyes: Goggles or safety glasses (with side shields or wrap-around lenses; can be shaded)

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How To Operate

Establish a good, stable footing.
Make a plan for the work to be done and identify and establish controls for the hazards present
Choose the correct-sized saw for the job.
Ensure that the saw is sharp, the chain is properly tensioned, and the saw is ready to operate before starting.
Use both hands to start the saw: one to hold the saw (some saws also allow you to use a foot) and the other to pull the cord. Drop starts are not allowed.
Make sure the saw’s safety features are in place and working, including a reduced-kickback bar, a low-kickback chain, and a chain brake.
Make sure rocks and other obstacles have been removed from the cutting area.
Avoid contact between the bar tip and any object, or the dirt, as it can result in a kick back and/or damage or dull the chain.
Hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands.
Don’t overextend when cutting.
Don’t cut above shoulder level.
Check the chain brake frequently.
Never cut when tired or alone.
Follow sharpening and maintenance instructions for the chainsaw.
Plan and clear an escape route when falling a tree. As the tree falls, stop the motor, set the saw down, and move quickly from the base of the tree, rapidly at a 45-degree angle from the path of the fall.
Avoid cutting with the saw between your legs; always cut to the outside of your legs.
Don’t stand on a log and saw between your feet.
Stand to the side of the limb you are cutting; don’t straddle it.
Keep yourself and others out of the cutting path in case the chain breaks.
Do not fuel hot or running equipment. Use a rag to wipe up fuel spills.
Equipment operators shall be trained and qualified to operate all chainsaws that they may be asked to use. Manufacturer’s instructions and operating procedures shall be followed. Training must be documented and kept on file.
Before working in an area, the equipment operator must ensure it is clear of people and other hazards.
Transport the chainsaw in an upright position to prevent fuel spillage. Keep out of the passenger area of the vehicle. Keep it in a case or cover the bar with a chain guard.
Do not operate a chainsaw inside a dump bed or while standing on a vehicle or a wall.