Most tools, especially power tools can cause injury if not properly used. Sanders can cause dust in the eyes, screwdrivers can slip and gash your hand, but with chainsaws, they can inflict injury far worse. When you think about the razor sharp teeth of a chainsaw spinning at a high RPM in close proximity to the operators limbs, you realise care is needed. That high spinning chain will also eject small fragments of wood at high speed so eye and face protection is a must. Care must be taken too when cutting tree branches that could be under tension as these could spring towards the chainsaw operator.

Being proficient in the use of a chainsaw takes experience. There is a learning curve and anyone who thinks they can just pick up a chainsaw and start cutting could end up regretting their actions. When you ask chainsaw operators, many will often say they’re always learning and improving their craft. Using a chainsaw requires different challenges depending on the situation but the more experience you gain from each new situation, the more proficient and comfortable you will become. The Health & Safety Executive are also keen to promote safe use of chainsaws.

If you’re reading this and haven’t purchased a chainsaw yet, feel free to head over to Petrol Chain Saw Reviews for the latest buyer’s guide.

Let’s take a look now at how to use a chainsaw safely

We’re only outlining the basics here and it’s not intended to replace an experienced chainsaw instructor showing you what to do. Hopefully, after reading this you’ll be more informed and able to ask the right questions when you do have in-person training.

What are the basics of safe chainsaw use?

PPE or personal protective equipment is a must have if you’re going to operating a chainsaw. Having the right protective clothing could end up saving you from serious injury. Many DIY chainsaw buyer omit to buy protective clothing and go about their chainsaw activities with no protection at all for their face, eyes, ear and limbs. This is absolute madness! The minimum PPE you should have when using a chainsaw is: ear protection, eye and face protection, foot protection (boots), long sleeve shirt, chaps and gloves. If you’re working where there is potential for falling trees or branches then a hard hat is also recommended.

You can buy head, face, eye and ear protection separately but conveniently there are all in one helmet which incorporate protection for all of those areas.

What are chainsaw chaps? Let’s find out… They are protection for your legs if the chainsaw was to come into contact with them. They’re made from a tough material called Kevlar which prevents the chainsaw from cutting through the chaps. Fibres in the chaps then serve to stop the spinning chain very quickly.

Create a safe area to work Before starting work with your chainsaw, check the work area for any potential hazards. E.g pets, children. Look where falling trees or branches could fall. You need a safe escape route for the tree to fall so have an idea in your mind where this will be. You want to avoid things like electrical power lines, greenhouses or next door’s conservatory roof. Next, inspect the tree to be felled – is there any evidence of disease or bug infestation which could cause weakness? What direction is the wind blowing in and how will it affect the tree’s falling path? If you’re in any doubt of your abilities to get the job done safely then swallow your manly pride and call in the professional tree surgeon.

How to use a chainsaw. OK, let’s take a look now at three basic techniques of chainsaw use. Limbing – what is it? Limbing is where all of the branches are removed from a fallen tree. Think of it taking off the tree’s limbs, just leaving the stump. Bucking – what is it? Bucking involves cutting the tree’s trunk into small lengths. Felling – what is felling? Felling is the process of making a tree purposely fall to the ground by making the right cuts in the trunk.

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