Man handling chain saw (Courtesy-www.fotosearch.com)
Safety should be your primary consideration whenever you operate a chain saw. The merging of the engine’s power and the sharp cutting teeth on the chain could prove to be a destructive or even lethal combination when not handled properly. Indeed, the Office of Safety and Health Administration issued a set of guidelines relative to the operation of a chain saw.
Before you even start your equipment’s engine, you need to perform the following:
1) Ensure that the chain is sharp. If the cutting teeth fail to cut into the wood, the saw may kick back.
2) Check the oil levels of the engine and the chain oiler. This will prevent total engine failure, and ensure the continuous smooth and efficient operation of the chain.
3) Check the tension of the chain. If it is too slack, it may cause damage to the sprocket, chain, and guide bar.
4) Secure all loose bolts and screws and check all controls and handles to see if they are functioning properly.
5) When refueling, be sure you are at least 10 feet away from any source of ignition. This includes a cigarette.
6) Never refuel a chain saw that is still running. Instead, cut the engine and let it stand for a few minutes to cool down before refueling.
7) Use only metal or plastic fuel containers with a maximum capacity of five gallons
8 ) Before you start the engine, leave the refueling area and start at least 10 feet away.
9) Do not attempt to start the engine by holding the chain saw in one hand and pulling the starting cord with the other. Instead, put it on the ground or on any solid surface.
10) Be sure you are wearing all the necessary protective gear. This includes a hard hat, safety goggles, earmuffs, gloves, chaps, and work boots. These are intended to protect you from falling or flying branches, splinters and dust, and excessive noise. And do not wear loose-fitting clothes that might get caught in the chain.
11) Clear the area of the tree where you will be cutting off debris and tree limbs. Check if there are any nails or spikes left in it.
Once you get the engine running and you start cutting, remember the following:
1) Do not attempt to hold any part of the chain saw other than the handles. You could either get burned or cut if you do.
2) Ensure that your footing is secure. With a running chain saw in your hands, you definitely do not want to fall.
3) When you are not actually cutting, turn off the engine or engage its chain brake.
4) Always be on the lookout for a kickback.
5) Never saw with the tip. Instead, if your saw has a tip guard, leave it on.
