22 –
Canadian
WORKING TECHNIQUES
5
Take great care when cutting a tree that is under tension.
A tree that is under tension may spring back to its normal
position before or after being cut. If you position yourself
incorrectly or make the cut in the wrong place the tree may
hit you or the machine and cause you to lose control. Both
situations can cause serious personal injury.
6
Before moving your chain saw switch off the engine and
lock the chain using the chain brake. Carry the chain saw
with the bar and chain pointing backwards. Fit a guard to
the bar before transporting the chain saw or carrying it for
any distance.
7
When you put the chain saw on the ground, lock the saw
chain using the chain brake and ensure you have a
constant view of the machine. Switch the engine off before
leaving your chain saw for any length of time.
General rules
1
If you understand what kickback is and how it happens
then you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
By being prepared you reduce the risk. Kickback is usually
quite mild, but it can sometimes be very sudden and
violent.
2
Always hold the chain saw firmly with your right hand on
the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle.
Wrap your fingers and thumbs around the handles. You
should use this grip whether you are right-handed or left-
handed. This grip minimizes the effect of kickback and lets
you keep the chain saw under control.
Do not let go of
the handles!
3
Most kickback accidents happen during limbing. Make
sure you are standing firmly and that there is nothing in
the way that might make you trip or lose your balance.
Lack of concentration can lead to kickback if the kickback
zone of the bar accidentally touches a branch, nearby tree
or some other object.
Have control over the workpiece. If the pieces you intend
to cut are small and light, they can jam in the saw chain
and be thrown towards you. Even if this does not need to
be a danger, you may be surprised and lose control of the
saw. Never saw stacked logs or branches without first
separating them. Only saw one log or one piece at a time.
Remove the cut pieces to keep your working area safe.
4
Never use the chain saw above shoulder height and
avoid cutting with the tip of the bar. Never use the
chain saw one-handed!
5
In order to keep control of your saw, always maintain a firm
foothold. Never work on a ladder, in a tree or on any other
insecure support.
6
Always use a fast cutting speed, i.e. full throttle.
