9. OPERATION AND USE
WARNING: CHAINSAWS POSE A SIGNIFICANT HEALTH
AND SAFETY RISK EVEN TO CAREFUL AND TRAINED
OPERATORS.
9.6 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(PPE) (FIG.10)
Due to the nature of chainsaw, no PPE equipment can
provide 100% protection against chainsaw cuts.
Equipment specifically designed for use with a
chainsaw shall be worn, consisting of;
– A safety helmet with mesh visor and ear defender
to protect against falling/thrown debris and the
high levels of noise generated.
– Gloves with additional protective guard material on
the back of the left hand to defend against chain
whip in the event of breakage.
– Trousers or chaps with leg protection incorporated
into the front/side. In case of contact with a moving
saw chain the clogging material is designed to stop
the saw chain before it penetrates fully through
and into flesh.
– Safety boots with a good non-slip tread
incorporating protection to toes and shins.
– High visibility jacket. Some jackets incorporate the
clogging material like the trouser, but in any event,
should be close fitting.
All this equipment should be tested to relevant
international and European standards, and marked
accordingly. The gloves, boots and trousers should be
additionally marked with symbol, also indicating the
chain speed to which they have been tested.
Attention!:
Fully read and understand the general safety
instruction section of this manual before proceeding.
9.7 HOLDING THE CHAINSAW
(FIGS.11 AND 12)
Do not be afraid to hold the chainsaw power head
close in to the body. In this position the weight of the
saw will be easy to bear and in the event of a kickback
will be more controllable. Firmly grip the rear handle
with the right hand pulling it tight in to the hip/thigh.
With the left hand grip the front handle with thumb
on the under side. In this position with the body
turned slightly toward the saw, should a kickback
occur. The left arm will be stronger to brace against
the force of the kickback or if unable to withstand, the
saw chain should avoid the face/head.
Try to work at hip height, or if unable to do so, bend
the knees instead of the back. This will be more
comfortable and a safer stance to adopt.
16
FIG.10
FIG.11
FIG.12
