Petrol Powered Chainsaws
E&OE
©2017 Bäumr-AG
6
Equipment Safety
Chainsaws are high-speed, fast-cutting equipment with exposed blades that can cause
serious or fatal injury if not used correctly or without taking proper safety precautions.
It is
extremely important that you read and fully understand the information in this section and all other
safety warnings / recommendations and usage instructions before using the equipment
.
Operator
•
If you are untrained in the use of a chainsaw, it is highly recommended that you be trained/instructed by
a suitably qualified or experienced chainsaw user before using the machine.
•
Fully understand how to safely operate the machine and the sawing process to avoid "kick-back". See
Chainsaw Operation.
•
You must be in good physical condition to use a chainsaw. NEVER operate the machine when tired, or
under the influence of any substance (medication, alcohol, drugs etc) that may impair your judgement,
alertness, physical strength, vision or dexterity.
•
Maintain sure-footing and balance always when using or handling the chainsaw and have full awareness
of your surroundings and any possible hazards.
•
Prolonged chainsaw use may lead to health complications, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, due to
vibration. To help reduce the possibility of such conditions, wear gloves, take breaks frequently, keep
fingers and hands warm, and maintain the equipment for optimal operation and minimal vibration. It is
recommended to seek medical advice if you feel numbness or burning sensations in fingers/hands.
Clothing and Protective Equipment
– All Operators and Assistants
•
Wear approved safety goggles, or safety glasses with adequate top and side protection. In addition to
eye protection, wearing a full-face shield is highly recommended.
•
Wear suitable hearing protection.
•
Wear an approved safety hard-hat.
•
Wear heavy-duty, non-slip leather or protective gloves.
•
Wear approved heavy-duty safety boots, with steel toe-caps and non-slip soles.
•
Wear suitable overalls or work clothing that fits snugly, but does not restrict movement. It is highly
recommended to provide additional cut protection to legs, such as Kevlar chaps. Avoid loose fitting
clothing, scarves, jewellery etc and keep long hair contained to avoid getting caught or pulled by the
chainsaw or by tree branches etc.
Work Area Safety
•
Use EXTREME CAUTION to avoid power lines
– contact can be fatal. Do NOT cut branches touching
power lines or that may fall onto power lines when cut.
•
To operate the chainsaw at height it is highly recommended to use a "scissor lift" or "cherry picker" and
ensure that the work platform is completely stable. Do NOT use ladders, ropes or tree branches.
•
Ensure that any person other than the operator and any assistants is kept a minimum 25m (75') away
from where the equipment is being used or where there is any possibility of falling branches, trees etc.
Be aware of any property that may be affected by falling branches, trees etc.
•
Be aware of fire risks resulting from machine use. Ensure that the machine exhaust and spark arrestor (if
equipped) is well maintained and that engine is tuned correctly.
•
Refuel outdoors only. Avoid fuel spillage. Start the machine at least 3m (10') away from the fuelling
location.
