ICFR – Chainsaw Safety and Operating Handbook
8
3.5
c
hAinSAw
inflicted
injurieS
Chainsaw inflicted injury statistics from various
regions of the world, with similar conditions to those
of South Africa, show the following injury trends in
professional applications.
Table 2: Chainsaw inflicted injuries statistics
Area cut by chainsaw
% Left
% Right
Face & neck
9%
4%
Upper torso & shoulders
4%
1%
Arms
3%
1%
Hands
14%
2%
Front upper leg
16%
9%
Hamstring back leg
2%
4%
Knee to ankle front
8%
2%
Calf muscle back
3%
3%
Foot
13%
2%
Total
72%
28%
Notes to Table 2:
•
All chainsaw operators were equipped with
personal protective equipment and all chainsaws
were fitted with safety devices.
•
Most accidents occured between 10:00 and 11:00.
•
Statistics show that trained and experienced
chainsaw operators had less accidents.
To minimise the risk of these injuries adhere to the
following:
•
Ensure that all chainsaw operators are adequately
trained.
•
Follow the procedures in section 8 relating to
reactive forces.
•
Ensure that the chainsaw is serviceable and
suitable for the task.
•
Use only recognised working methods and
postures.
•
Use personal protective equipment as described
in section 4.1.
•
Comply with all safety standards referred to in
this Handbook.
