Make sure to follow these safety tips for chainsaw use as we head towards the Atlantic Hurricane Season.
Nearly 30,000 chainsaw accidents occur every year, according to a UF/IFAS blog article, and the majority of those accidents could be avoided by following safety tips for chainsaw use. The article shared those tips for those trimming trees ahead of the storms and for those cleaning up after the storms. See them below.
Safety Tips for Chainsaw Use
The article shared the following safety tips for chainsaw use:
“Before Starting a Chainsaw
- Check the controls, chain tension, all bolts, and handles to ensure that they are functioning correctly and that they are adjusted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Make sure that the chain is sharp and in good condition and that the lubrication reservoir is full.
- Start the saw on the ground. Drop starting (at hip level) is never allowed!
- Start the saw at least ten feet from the fueling area with the chain’s brake engaged.”
“Fueling a Chainsaw
- Use approved containers for transporting fuel.
- Refuel at least ten feet away from any sources of ignition.
- No Smoking during fueling.
- Use a funnel or a flexible hose when fueling the saw.
- Never attempt to fuel a running or hot saw.”
“Running a Chainsaw Safety
- Clear the work area of all obstacles that might interfere while cutting very or may block the retreat path. Look for nails, spikes, or other metal in the tree before cutting.
- Keep both hands on the saw’s handles and maintain secure footing while operating the saw.
- Shut off the saw or engage its chain brake when carrying it on rough or uneven terrain. Always carry the chainsaw with the bar pointed behind you.
- It is mandatory to use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which consists of hand protection (gloves), foot protection (steel toe boots), leg protection(chaps), eye/face protection, hearing and head protection (combo helmet).
- Do not wear loose-fitting clothing.
- Watch for branches under tension. They may spring out when they get cut.
- Be cautious of saw kick-back. To avoid kick-back, do not saw with the tip. If equipped, keep a tip guard in place.”
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