5. HEALTH & SAFETY INFORMATION
Felling
– Remove lower branches/limbs from the tree up to shoulder height.
– When removing the lower branches ensure the operator is protected from kickback by
using the tree stem for protection and keeping the guide bar out of line with the body
(off set).
– Ensure there is sufficient fuel in the tank to safely complete the felling cut.
– Never leave a partially felled tree.
– When the tree begins to fall move back and away at 45º as quickly as possible. Branches
on the underside of the tree can cause the stem to move sideways or backwards
dangerously.
– In the event of a tree becoming hung in another tree or obstacle seek assistance from a
professional. A hung tree poses many dangers and creates more potential risks than
felling a normal tree. Do not abandon a hung tree, walk under or attempt to climb one.
– Always perform a notch cut followed by a felling cut to create a felling hinge. Felling
wedges or levers may be necessary to prevent the chainsaw from becoming pinched in the
felling cut.
Limbing
– Ensure the tree is stable before any limbering commences.
– The ideal working height for performing limbing is between waist and knee height.
– Stand on the left side of the stem, working from the root upwards, then return down the
other side.
– Use the top (pushing chain) and bottom (pulling chain) to make the cuts, constantly taking
note of the bar tip in conjunction with limbs further round the stem which may be less
visible or obscured.
– Ensure the tip of the bar does not come into contact with the ground.
– If the felled tree is on a slope always remain above the tree in case the removal of a limb
were to cause potentially dangerous movement.
– Rest the weight of the saw on the tree where possible.
– Take care of limbs and undergrowth under tension as there is a danger of spring back
once the cut has been performed.
– At regular intervals, stop the chainsaw and clear the cut debris to maintain a firm footing.
Cross cutting
– The timber must be raised off the ground with supports to perform a safe cut.
– When working on slopes, always work above the timber in case of movement.
– Always adopt a good firm footing.
– Observe the timber to assess the surfaces for tension.
– Tension and compression in supported timber can result in the timber splitting or pinching
the guide bar if incorrectly cut.
– Alleviate tension in the timber by making an initial cut (1/3) into the compressed surface
before finishing the cut (2/3) into the tension surface.
– Stand off to the side of the saw in case of kickback.
– If the chainsaw becomes trapped, switch off immediately before attempting to free the
guide bar. Use the correct tools when attempting to free a trapped saw
– Be ready to step back quickly in case of the timber rolling.
– Ensure no debris is present in the work area.
8
25
FIG. 33
10. MAINTENANCE
10.2 BAR MAINTENANCE - FIG. 31
Periodically clean the chain run groove and oil
passages.
Lubricate the sprocket wheel with bearing grease.
Reverse the guide bar on a regular basis to ensure
uniform bar wear.
Burring of the guide bar rails is normal. Remove
these burrs as appropriate with a flat file.
The guide bar should be replaced when the chain
run groove is worn, the bar is damaged or if
excessive burring or heating occurs.
10.3 AIR FILTER - FIGS. 32 & 33
A clogged air filter reduces the engine efficiency,
consequently reducing cutting effectiveness while
increasing fuel consumption.
NOTE:
The air filter should be cleaned more
frequently when the wood being cut is dry or the
work environment dusty.
Remove the top cover
by loosening securing
screw
.
Lift the filter
from the machine. Blow any loose
dirt from inside, outwards. If dirt is hard to remove,
wash using hot soapy water. Ensure filter is fully dry
before refitting.
Replace the filter if damaged (deformed or cracked).
FIG. 31
FIG. 32