Transporting the saw – when carrying your chainsaw into the bush (or any distance) stop the engine; place the chain guard on the bar; and carry it by the front handle, muffler away from the body and at your side with the bar pointing to the rear.

Fueling – never refuel a hot saw.  Always shut it off and wait until the engine has cooled before refueling.  When restarting your saw move away from the fueling site (minimum 10 feet).

Maintenance – ensure your chainsaw is in good operating condition (e.g., no loose chain, chain brake operational, chain oiler working, etc.).  Adjust the idling screw so the chain stops and doesn’t rotate when the engine is idling.

Understand kickback – most chainsaw injuries are caused by kickback.  The main form of kickback occurs when the bar nose of the saw (see figure #1) strikes a solid object.  To minimize the risk of kickback, keep the chain sharp, maintain proper chain tension, ensure the chain brake is working, hold the saw securely with both hands and know where the bar tip is at all times.

Starting your saw – always start the saw on flat, level ground.  Never start a saw on your knee, using a “yo-yo” start, or a “drop” start (i.e., involves holding the saw with one hand while the starter cord is pulled with the other).

Proper grip – always keep your fingers on the handle, with your thumb under the front handle.  This will help you maintain control in the event of a kickback.  Never walk around with your finger on the throttle trigger, because if you stumble or fall, the risk of injury is greatly increased should you come into contact with a rotating chain.  Always set the chain brake or shut your saw off when walking any distance (50 feet) or climbing over physical obstacles (heavy slash).

ß – ensure you have solid footing.  Stagger your feet for good balance in case of kickback, clear your work area and have an escape path planned.

Tree felling – clear obstacles from around the base of the tree and ensure you have established a clear escape route. Remove any dead trees, note wind direction, lean of tree, terrain and wear personal protection equipment.  Ensure you maintain a safe distance (minimum 2 to 3 tree lengths) between yourself and others working in the woodlot.

Reading these tips is not a substitute for proper chainsaw training and they should be used only as a reference. Remember that an accident can happen, even to an experienced chainsaw operator, should you become lax when using this piece of equipment.

Training Courses Available

Are you a novice chainsaw operator and want to learn more about the proper techniques for using a chainsaw?   It is highly recommended that you seek professional training.  For example, local community colleges such as Fleming College (1-888-269-6929, ext. 3310) offer numerous training courses throughout the year.  Or, you may want to contact a certified chainsaw operator instructor and attend a training course in your local area.  The Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace Association maintains a list of instructors in Ontario.  For a list of trainers, call the OFSWA at (705) 474-7233 or visit their Web site www.ofswa.on.ca.

Additional Reading

The Cutting Edge. Revised Fourth Edition. Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace Association.  2002. 127 pages.  Cost $16.50.  A copy of this guide is available from the OFSWA at (705) 474-7233, ext. 267.

Safe Timber Harvesting. University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Forestry Information Center. 2001. 64 pages.  A copy of this guide can be downloaded from the Internet at http://extension.unh.edu/resources/files/Resource001062_Rep1293.pdf

Illustration Credits

Safe Timber Harvesting. University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension Forestry Information Center. 2001.

© 2009 Ontario Woodlot Association