1. Chainsaw Security And The Health Risks
Essential Chainsaw Safety Points
There's no question that the contemporary chainsaw is possibly the most dangerous piece of garden
equipment available. If you treat the chainsaw irresponsibly, use it inaccurately and don't treat it with
respect, the outcome could be lethal. But there is a plethora of health and safety recommendations
which could put in place to ensure you, your equipment, and the people near you are kept as safe as
possible.
The first place to begin is the handbook which will come with the device. Many times we presume we
know more than we do - skip through manual in a rushed desire to get the new unit up and working.
This sort of mindset can only lead to possible injuries and problems. Always explore the manual
thoroughly before any use at all. Your chainsaw is a sophisticated device and will as a result warrant
good care and maintenance. Much of this work you can do by yourself but if you're not used to
machinery or if you're in any uncertainty seek the advice of a specialist.
Before we actually get to the chainsaw you've got to be clothed properly to complete the job:
• Boots - the need here is to guard the feet from dangerous objects on the ground along with
materials that's likely to be dropping from above which you have cut using the chainsaw. There is
also the need of defense against the chainsaw itself. Boots ought to be durable and preferably
having a steel toe-cap.
• Anti-slip chainsaw gloves - will safeguard you not just from flying materials coming back from the
blades of the chainsaw but they may also provide you with a stronger, tighter and more secure
grasp on the appliance.
• A helmet - particularly handy when working high, a helmet provides 2 functions. It can prevent injury
from falling debris as well as protect your head should you fall.
• Shielding eye-glasses - some helmets are available with protective eyeglasses but they can also be
bought separately. Either way they're essential for safety while you're working. The eyes are very
sensitive to tiny particles or sawdust and foliage, and also large pieces of material so it is important
to use safety glasses to avoid damage to eyesight. Face visors (frequently add-ons to helmets) are
a great substitute.
• Ear protectors - chainsaws can be powerful and hence may also be quite loud. If using them for long
periods of time it is recommended to protect your ears with appropriate head gear.
• Safety trousers - specially made protective chainsaw trousers are now available on the market.
They're referred to as “chap”. They can be purchased with protection just at the front of your leg or
all around the trouser area. Without the suitable trouser you create dangers for your legs, knees,
and hips. They work as there is a special substance inside clothing that when cut with the chainsaw,
will clog up your chain and stop it working.
2. Safety Features on the chainsaw.
Numerous accidents when using a chainsaw have happened through the “kickback” effect. This is
where your sawing may come to the end of the run and the gravity forces the device back and
towards the operator. (on the other hand it may drag the operator towards wood being cut). The
kickback bar stops the blade from rotating when it is released from the work it has been doing. Some
other safety features are the fact that the chain is actually isolated from the motor. Your chainsaw will
also have a chain brake.
Starting up a chainsaw properly
Many injuries have occurred through trying to do a slovenly “drop-saw technique”. This means the
user holds the weight of the machine in the air, grasping the starting rope and dropping the weight of
the chainsaw to start it. The proper way is to firstly position the chain brake in the locked/on position,
position the throttle in idle position and make sure the choke is on. Now place the chainsaw on level
on the ground where there 's no debris. Squatting in a balanced secure position, position your foot in
the back handle of the chainsaw and then tug on the safety cord.
Holding your chainsaw
You'll find on all chainsaws there is a blade shield at the front of the device to protect your hands from
the blade (this is behind the kickback lock feature). Both hands should always be behind this guard
when the motor is going. Never be tempted to turn the machine at 90 degrees on the side in an effort
to manipulate your cutting angle - the hands won't be shielded. In addition anytime the engine is
working it is crucial for you to constantly secure the machine with two hands making use of the right
handles. This avoids accidents from kickback or perhaps if the clutch were to all of a sudden become
engaged.
Cutting above your height
There is a possibility you will need the chainsaw in order to fell trees and shrubs. You will additionally
need it to chop wood into smaller pieces. You might also find yourself in the situation that you want to
cut branches that are above your height. Don’t. You must never elevate a chainsaw over the
shoulders. Either you need acceptable step ladders that will raise you to the required height or use
other equipment to attempt the process.
Felling a tree
Whenever felling a tree always prepare in great depth ahead of time. You must know precisely how
as well as where it'll fall. It should fall if at all possible on open even ground. You should inform any
person in the area what you are doing and when possible cordon off the area. Children and domestic
pets should be in the house. Make certain as well that you have determined a safety path for yourself
(in the opposite direction to which the tree will fall) so you can rapidly retire away from the activity.
