8
GENERAL SAfETy RULES
W A R N I N G
Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of
the tip of the guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the
cut. Contact at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig
into the object and stop the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning fast reverse
reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back toward the operator. If the saw chain is
pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar can be driven rapidly back toward the
operator. Either of these reactions can cause loss of saw control which can result in
serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into the saw. As
a chainsaw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from
accident or injury.
Fig. 2
Rotational
Kickback
Kickback
Danger Zone
CAUSES AND OPERATOR PREVENTION OF KICKBACK
1. Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw
handles, with both hands on the saw and position your body and arm to allow
you to resist kickback forces.
Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if
proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chain saw.
2. Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height.
This helps prevent
unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chain saw in unexpected
situations.
3. Only use replacement bars and chains specified by the manufacturer.
Incorrect
replacement bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.
4. Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the
saw chain.
Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.
