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– Keep the saw chain sharp and the saw, including the AV system, well
maintained. A blunt chain will increase cutting time, and pressing a
blunt chain through wood increases the vibrations transmitted to your
hands. A saw with loose components or with damaged or worn AV
buers will also tend to have higher vibration levels.
– Do not use the saw for too long at a time.
KICKBACK SAFETY PRECAUTIONS FOR CHAINSAW USERS
• Kickback may occur when the tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when
the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Tip contact in some
cases may cause a lightning fast reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and
back towards the operator. If the saw chain pinches along the top of the guide
bar, it may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator. Either of
these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in
serious personal injury.
• Do not rely exclusively on the safety devices built into your saw. As a chainsaw
user you should take a number of precautions to avoid accidents:
– With a basic understanding of kickback you can reduce or eliminate the
element of surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.
– Always use both hands to grip the saw. When the engine is running, keep
the right hand on the rear handle, and the left hand on the front handle.
Use a rm grip with thumbs and ngers encircling the chainsaw handles.
A rm grip will help you reduce kickback and maintain control of the saw.
Never let go.
– Make certain that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstruc-
tions. Do not let the tip of the guide bar come into contact with a log,
branch, or any other obstruction which could be hit while you are
operating the saw.
– Cut at high engine speeds.
– Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height.
– Follow the manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions
for the saw chain.
– Only use replacement bars and chains recommended by the
manufacturer.
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