Chainsaw Operator’s Manual
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7
3. Chainsaw safety
Operating a chainsaw can be a high risk activity. There are two Australian Standards that cover
safety in chainsaw operations and that the operator should be familiar with:
AS 2726 Chainsaw Safety Requirements
AS 2727 Chainsaws – Guide for Safe Working Practices.
Develop a professional attitude
It is essential that a chainsaw operator develops a professional attitude towards all aspects of
chainsaw use. Personal attributes that help to make a safe and competent operator include:
• forward planning and risk assessment
• putting safety first
• maintaining a steady work pace
• concentrating at all times
• using sound, low risk techniques
• understanding and taking care of your equipment
• caring about the environment.
Risk management
Using a chainsaw brings with it risks that the operator must be aware of, in order to take steps to
minimise the possibility of accidents or injury. It is vital that you think before you act, and carry out
a risk assessment of the work you are about to do.
Risk management is a process of identifying hazards in a workplace and eliminating or reducing as
far as possible the risks associated with those hazards. There are four basic steps to risk
management:
Table 2: Risk management strategy.
Step 1
Identify hazard
Find out what hazards are present in the workplace.
Example: Hanging limbs in trees overhanging the work area.
Step 2
Assess risk
Assess the risk – what could happen and why.
Example: The hanging limbs could dislodge and fall on operators.
Step 3
Control risk
Evaluate and select options for minimising the risk.
Example: 1. Prohibit work in the hazardous area
2. Use mechanical equipment to remove the hanging limbs
Step 4
Check risk controls
Make sure the risk controls are working.
Example: Ensure the area is cordoned off and operators kept out until hanging limbs are removed.
070902 Chainsaw Manual 3pp.indd 7 2/09/09 17:17:13
Chainsaw Operator's Manual:
Chainsaw Safety, Maintenance and Cross-cutting Techniques,
by ForestWorks
Published by CSIRO Publishing, 2009, 64pp
©ForestWorks 2009
http://www.publish.csiro.au
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