6
SAFETY INFORMATION
KICKBACK
(See Figure 1-2)
W A R N I N G
Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of the tip of the
guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at the upper
portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and stop the chain for
an instant. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back
toward the operator. If the saw chain is pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar can
be driven rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these reactions can cause loss of saw control
which can result in serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into the saw.
As a chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or
injury.
The following precautions should be followed to minimize kickback:
1.
unit is running. Place your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front
with a stiff left arm will help you maintain control of the saw if kickback occurs.
2. Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the
nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, fence, or any other obstruction that could be
hit while you are operating the saw.
3. Always cut with the unit running. Fully squeeze the switch trigger and maintain cutting
speed.
4. Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback chains sp ecified by the
manufacturer for the saw.
With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
Do not cut above shoulder height or overreach when cutting.
Follow the sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Rotational
Kickback
Kickback
Danger Zone
right hand on the rear handle
and on the rear
you maintain control of the sa
u maintain control of the
which you are cutting is free
which you are cutting is free
act a log, branch, fence, or an
ct a log, branch, fence, or an
the saw.
he saw
unning. Fully squeeze the sw
unning. Fully squeeze the swi
nt guide bars and low kick
nt guide bars and low kick
kickback, you can reduce or e
kback, you can reduce o
accidents.
idents
ce at all times.
l times.
ht or overreach when cutting
ach wh
