July 2014 Articles

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Chain saw safety

Chain Saw Safety Source: www.uaex.edu
A skilled woodsman quickly reduces a large tree to manageable
pieces. Inexperienced chain saw operators can gain some of these skills with training and using safe, efficient cutting practices. Even seasoned woodcutters should revise techniques that are hazardous. One analysis of chain saw accidents revealed that 70 percent of those injured had more than one year’s experience. To avoid injuries, possibly even death, practice safe woodcutting while clearing, thinning, cutting firewood or cleaning up trees downed by a storm. You should be well prepared before going into the woods. Cutting firewood, thinning timber stands or clearing is worthwhile and rewarding if done properly, but they can also be dangerous. Felling, limbing, bucking and trimming trees are hazardous tasks if not done carefully. This fact sheet gives basic safety precautions for reducing common woodcutting hazards. Each year a number of serious injuries to Arkansans could be prevented by following fairly simple precautions.
Preparing to Use the Saw You should be well­prepared before using a chain saw. Know how to operate the saw before you use it. Read and understand the operator’s manual. Observe an experienced operator in action. Then use a saw for a period of time with supervision. Obtain the following personal protective equipment before starting to work and wear all protection while sawing.
◗ A hard hat to protect your head from falling limbs or branches.
The best helmets have a face guard.
◗ Safety glasses or goggles to prevent injury from flying wood
chips. Wear these during wood splitting also, to preserve your eyesight.
◗ Ear muffs or ear plugs to protect ears from permanent injury. Noise from some gasoline­powered chain saws can exceed 100 decibels.
◗Lightweight gloves, preferably leather, to protect hands from
abrasions and cuts.
◗ Heavy work boots or shoes with high tops and steel toes.
◗ Trim­fitting clothing free of ragged edges. Loose clothing will readily snag on limbs or get caught in the saw. Woodcutter’s chaps are recommended to give leg protection during a mishap.
Make sure that your saw is in top operating condition. Keep the chain properly sharpened. Maintain proper chain tension; carefully observe it, especially during the first half hour of cutting. The lower chain span should just touch the bottom bar rails. Raise up on the bar tip while tightening the bar fasteners. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for service and maintenance.
Fueling the Saw Good fire safety practices are necessary when
refueling the chain saw. Refuel the saw in an open area after it has cooled, at least 10 feet away from where you wish to restart the saw and resume cutting. Fuel the saw at least 20 feet away from fires and lighted cigarettes. Use proper funnels and spouts
to prevent spills. Wipe the saw dry of any spilled fuel before cranking it.
Starting the Saw Place the saw on a clear, firm, flat surface as close to the work area as possible. Get a good footing. Follow the owner’s manual recommendations for starting the chain saw. Place your foot in the handle to restrain the saw if designed with this intention. Never start the saw on your knee; too many experienced woodsmen have slipped and cut their legs.