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INSTRUCTIONS ON THE CORRECT USE OF THE CHAIN SAW
REMOVING BRANCHES (Fig.15)
Ensure that you are standing properly.
Cut a deep notch from below into the branch about 15cm from the trunk.
Now cut the branch from above about 5cm further outwards from the lower notch until the
branch drops off.
In order to remove the remaining stub, cut from below about 1/3 into the remaining branch
close to the trunk.
Cut into the branch from above until the branch has been removed completely.
WARNING: Do not remove free-hanging branches from below.
FELLING A TREE (Fig.17)
Ensure that no one is within the felling area, minimum distance: 2 tree lengths.
Ensure that no one can be hit by the falling tree or branches.
Ensure that there is an escape path as shown in figure 19.
Clear the area around the tree, ensuring there will be a good foothold area and retreat path
during felling.
Keep the working area free of objects.
Always stand at the side of the tree during felling (not in front!)
Decide the felling direction of the tree by considering the wind, lean of the tree, location of
heavy branches, ease of job after felling and other factors. The felling notch is cut on this
side of the trunk.
First cut 1/3 of the trunk diameter horizontally into the tree at the intended felling notch
(Fig.17 No.1).
Now cut the second part of the felling notch from above at an angle of 45 degrees to the first
cut (Fig.17 No.2).
Now make the felling cut exactly opposite to the felling notch. The felling cut must run
horizontal and at a level slightly higher than the bottom of the felling notch (Fig.17 No.3).
Do not cut completely through the tree. Leave about 1/10 of the trunk diameter.
Put wedges into the felling cut to bring the tree to fall (Fig.17 No.4). Note the felling direction
of the tree (Fig.17 No.5).
WARNING: When felling a tree, be sure to warn neighbouring workers of the danger.
CUTTING A LOG LYING ON THE GROUND (Fig.18)
Saw down halfway, then roll the log over and cut from the opposite side.
CUTTING A LOG HANGING OFF THE GROUND (Fig.16)
If cutting in area A (see figure 16), saw up from the bottom one-third and finish by sawing
down from the top. If cutting in area B, saw down from the top one-third and finish by sawing
up from the bottom.
This technique must be following to ensure the chain bar does not jam. If the chain saw does
become jammed, switch it off immediately. Use wedges to free the bar.
CUTTING THE LIMB OF A FALLEN TREE (Fig.19)
Before starting work, check the direction of bending force inside the log to be cut. Then
make the initial cut from the bent side (Fig.19 No.1) and finish by sawing from the opposite
side (Fig.19 No.2). Always finish cutting from the opposite side of bending direction to
prevent the guide bar from being caught in the cut.
WARNING: When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for spring back so that you will
not be struck when the tension in the wood fibres is released.