With warmer weather making a comeback and gardens growing with renewed vigor, you might be thinking about doing some heavy-duty chainsaw work.
Chainsaw accidents are common among the unprepared, and they can be life-changing – or worse. Following chainsaw safety advice is the best way to reduce your risk.
Here are 9 important chainsaw safety tips you need to know.
1. Dress for the Job
A flannel shirt isn’t effective PPE, so gear up appropriately. A helmet, goggles, gloves, and chainsaw-resistant clothing are all things you should consider wearing while operating a chainsaw. Wearing proper safety equipment like chainsaw chaps for protection may cost a bit, but the cost of saving your life, in the long run, is all worth the price. Seek out online reviews for the best safety gears and chaps so you can ensure you only buy quality materials.
2. Choose the Right Tool
Chainsaws come in many varieties, from big, heavy-duty models to lightweight chainsaws that are the perfect size for removing small tree limbs. Always match the tool to the job.
3. Buddy Up
Even a cautious user can make a mistake. That’s why it’s vital to have someone nearby when using a chainsaw, so they can provide first aid or otherwise get help if the worst should happen.
4. Know Where Help Is
If an accident occurs, it will be vital to know where you can get help. This includes having first aid available, but also access to a reliable phone and good roads.
You should also avoid using a chainsaw in remote conditions where help may be far away. In these situations, it may be better to call professional services that are prepared for remote conditions.
5. A Dangerous Weapon
There’s a gun safety rule that says to never point a weapon at something you don’t intend to shoot. The same principle holds true for chainsaws. Never, even as a “joke”, direct your chainsaw at anything other than what you intend to cut.
6. Engage the Chain Brake
A chainsaw’s chain brake could be the only thing between you and death or disfigurement if an accident happens. Always ensure you engage the chain brake while you’re working. Take a look at the model’s manual if you aren’t sure how to use the chain brake properly.
7. Don’t Climb and Cut
One common cause of chainsaw accidents is users who climb and cut. This effectively doubles the danger of using a chainsaw, and is an activity that should always be left to professionals.
8. Plan Ahead
Many chainsaw accidents are the result of inattentiveness or poor planning. It’s easy to rush into things without thinking them through, but it will put you at risk to do so.
Step back and take the time to observe the situation before you act. Plan where you’re cutting and how, and run it past the people with you.
9. Beware Kickback
Kickback is one of the most dangerous things that can happen with a chainsaw, even for the prepared. Kickback is usually the result of trying to cut with the nose of the chainsaw, so make sure you’re following the manufacturer’s advice on how to use your chainsaw.
The Truth About Chainsaw Safety
Chainsaw safety isn’t complicated. It’s a common-sense issue based on understanding exactly how dangerous a chainsaw can be. With these safety tips in mind, you can keep yourself and others safe when you use a chainsaw.
