A chainsaw is a handy and hard-working power tool that is used across various industries ranging from carpentry to major construction.
Yet, despite the useful nature of a chainsaw, it can be a pretty dangerous tool to use if it is not handled correctly.
Though the tool seems extremely intimidating, it isn’t all that scary when you know how to use it properly and can also guarantee your safety.
Professionals like Steve Cross at Cross Saw Mill offer useful advice about chainsaws. This includes anything from what a chainsaw is, the different types available, how the tool works, and how it can be used to accomplish daily tasks.
But there’s still a lot to learn about how to safely handle a chainsaw. So, if you’re planning to use a chainsaw in the future, check out the following tips to help you stay safe.
- Read the Instruction Manual
Like any other tool or appliance, carefully combing through the instruction manual is essential!
Never pick up a chainsaw unless you have read through the instruction manual that comes with it! You may think that it’s a typical household tool and that you can learn how to use it on the go.
However, this is not the case! A chainsaw is one of the most dangerous tools out there so you must understand exactly how to operate it before you even consider picking the tool up.
Different chainsaws will have specific instructions for you to follow, although this depends entirely on the manufacturer. So make sure you thoroughly read the instruction manual before you begin!
- Check Your Surroundings Are Clear
Make sure you check that the area you are going to be working in is hazard-free and safe for you to work in. If you’re cutting down a tree, make sure there is no chance of it falling onto a building or a power line.
Similarly to this, you should always ensure that there are no people or pets around that may get hurt as you carry out your role.
Start by clearing away debris, rocks, and dirt from the chain path of the saw so that nothing gets in the way. An even simpler solution may be to check for spikes, nails, or metal anywhere around you before you start cutting.
- Wear Protective Gear
The easiest way to protect yourself from danger when operating a chainsaw is to ensure you have dressed appropriately in the right kind of protective gear.
When you are using a chainsaw, wearing appropriate protective gear is crucial to your safety. This includes the following items:
- Ear defenders
- Hard safety helmet
- Chainsaw trousers/chaps
- Gloves
- Safety boots
- Clear safety goggles
Another piece of advice we have for you here is to avoid wearing any loose-fitting clothing. This may potentially get caught in the chainsaw if kickback was to occur which could be catastrophic!
- Be Wary of Kickback
Cutting something with the tip of the chainsaw creates a huge hazard known as a kickback. This occurs when the saw chain moving over the guide bar accidentally touches a different object, such as a small twig or a log branch.
Having this sort of contact might cause the chainsaw to quickly move towards where you are standing, which may result in serious injury or even death in the worst-case scenario.
To avoid any kickback, make sure that you do not saw using the tip. You should also keep the guard firmly in place.
- Stand Strong and Firm
Now we’ve established what you need to wear and that you must work in a clean environment, you must focus on learning how to properly handle your chainsaw. More specifically, you must understand what the proper stance is to maintain control over the tool.
The best advice is to maintain good balance and keep your hand placed firmly on the front handle at all times. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart so that your legs are steady and firm when you handle the powerful tool.
Not only does this provide some much-needed protection when you are using your chainsaw but it’ll also help you to maximize the performance of the tool.
Summary
If you want to stay safe when using a chainsaw, make sure you follow all of the above steps! Not only do you need to learn how to use the tool but you also need to know how to position yourself to properly handle the tool. This will help to reduce the risk of injury to you or someone else.
