ICFR – Chainsaw Safety and Operating Handbook
21
•
Identify any hazards such as stumps, logs or
ground undulations that could cause the fallen
tree to kick backwards or sideways on contact
with the ground.
10.10
f
elling
poSition
The position of the feller will depend on the size of
the tree to be felled and the felling technique used.
Refer to section 10.11.1 for the terminology used in
the following section.
10.10.1
p
oSition
when
mAking
the
directionAl
notch
Stand behind the tree with the left shoulder resting
firmly against the right section of the tree. Place the
left foot firmly behind you and the right foot forward
in a balanced stance.
Photo 10: Felling position for top cut of
directional notch (smaller trees)
Rest the chainsaw in front of the tree with the sight
line on the chainsaw lined-up with the intended felling
direction. If there is no sight line use another straight
edge which is at a 90° angle to the guide bar.
Ensure that the chainsaw is securely lined up before
proceeding with the top cut of the directional notch.
Figure 11: Lining up the chainsaw
With
larger
trees
it may be necessary to stand to the
side of the tree when making the top cut.
Photo 11: Felling position for top cut of
directional notch (larger trees)
Lift the chainsaw into the exact position and proceed
with the top cut of the directional notch at an angle of
approximately 45°. Cut to the required depth.
Remove the guide bar from the top cut and grip the
front handle on the side, so that the guide bar is in the
horizontal position. The trigger finger will revert from
the index finger to the thumb. Keep the guide bar in
the horizontal position and make the bottom cut. Keep
looking down the top cut to gauge when the two cuts
will meet.