Safety Standards for Chainsaws That You May Not Know

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The chainsaw is a potentially very dangerous machine, so you should know the safety instructions before using it.

We will summarize the precautions to take before, during, and after using the chainsaw.

Did You Know?

In 1780, two surgeons invented the chainsaw to speed up and simplify the removal of pelvic bone after childbirth delivery. By turning the hand crank, it spun an oval-shaped chain that resembled a modern kitchen knife.

Well, that answers the “why was the chainsaw invented” question that many people, even loggers, often fail to realize. Let’s go over how to practice safety when using a chainsaw for tree felling.

Practice Safety at All Times

The first thing to do before using a chainsaw for the first time is to read the machine’s user guide that came with it. Study it carefully, and don’t turn it on until all your questions or doubts have been answered. If you’ve never handled this machinery, have someone experienced walk you through the process of using one safely. 

Then, make sure you have the skills to do the cutting job you want to do and make sure you have the right machine for the type of job. Check the weather conditions to be sure it’s not going to rain, and if you’ve drunk any alcohol or taken any medication that may make you drowsy, it’s not the right day to be using a chainsaw.

Analyze the Situation 

Before starting the cut itself, carry out a reconnaissance of the area on which you are going to work: does it present obstacles, holes, what are the types of trees, do they lean? We recommend marking out the area you are going to work on. You must check that no one is within a perimeter corresponding to the height of the tree to be cut. Examine the tree to find out which direction it will fall and its condition (damaged, rotten, etc.).

Use the Right Personal Protective Equipment

You need to equip yourself with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE). Here is what you should always have on you when using a chainsaw. 

  • Safety shoes
  • Protective visor
  • Protective glasses
  • Helmet
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Long-sleeved jacket
  • Signal clothing
  • Protective pants
  • A first aid kit

Protecting yourself is the number one priority. 

There are special cut-resistant shoes with protective steel shells on the toe to protect your feet. Trousers or coveralls that protect the legs should also be made with cut-resistant fabric. And of course, a long-sleeved jacket will protect you from splinters caused by the wood. Just be careful not to wear loose clothing that could get caught in the chain.

Head protection is paramount and should not be minimized in any way. You will need a protective helmet which will reduce any possible shocks to the head. Then your hearing must be protected. To do this, wear noise-canceling headphones that comply with UL standards.

For the protection of the face, always wear a protective visor that will protect you from splinters and goggles that will ensure your eyes don’t get any bits that may have come through or under the visor. And finally, if you work in an exposed area, wear signal clothing to be easily spotted. Additionally, protective gloves will protect your hands from cuts when you cut and maintain your chain.

Become an Equipped Professional

Do not hesitate to take courses to learn how to use a chainsaw and know the different cutting techniques. Also, have your equipment checked regularly by a professional. This way, you will be sure not to prevent any breakdowns or malfunctioning.

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