23
SUGGESTED TREE FELLING TECHNIQUES
(PIC. 25)
Note: If unsure about chainsaw operation we suggest doing a
chainsaw course.
• Carefully plan your sawing operation in advance.
• Clear the work area. You need a clear area all around the tree
so you can have secure footing.
• The chainsaw operator should keep on the uphill side of the
terrain as the tree is likely to roll or slide downhill after it is
felled.
• Study the natural conditions that can cause the tree to fall in a
particular direction. Natural conditions that can cause a tree to
fall in a particular direction include.
A The wind direction and speed.
B The lean of the tree. The lean of a tree might not be
apparent due to uneven or sloping terrain. Use a
plumb or level to determine the direction of tree lean.
C Weight and branches on one side.
D Surrounding trees and obstacles.
Look for decay and rot. If the trunk is rotted, it can snap and fall
toward the operator. Check for broken or dead branches which
can fall on you while cutting. Make sure there is enough room
for the tree to fall. Maintain a distance of 2-1/2 tree lengths from
the nearest person or other objects. Engine noise can drown out a
warning call. Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples and wire
from the tree where cuts are to be made. Plan a clear retreat path
to the rear and diagonal to the line of fall.
WARNING
Check for broken or dead branches which can fall while cutting causing serious injury. Do not cut near buildings or electrical wires if
you do not know the direction of tree fall, nor cut at night since you will not be able to see well, nor during bad weather such as rain,
snow, or strong winds, etc. If the tree makes contact with any utility line, the utility company should be notified immediately.
OPERATING TIPS
You are responsible for safety in the area in which you are working.
Wear suitable work clothing such as gloves, safety helmet, goggles
or safety visors and long trousers made of strong material.
Ensure that you are standing on a firm, safe surface and wear good
quality non-slip work shoes. Never use the chainsaw when wearing
sandals or barefoot.
• Check chain tension before first use and after 1 minute of
operation. See CHAIN TENSION on page 16.
• Cut wood only. Do not cut metal, plastics, masonry, non-wood
building materials, etc.
• Stop the chainsaw if the chain strikes a foreign object. Inspect
the chainsaw and repair or replace parts as necessary.
• Keep the chainsaw out of dirt and sand prior to use. Even a
small amount of dirt will quickly dull a chain and thus increase
the possibility of kickback.
• Practice cutting a few small logs using the following techniques
to get the “feel” of using your chainsaw before you begin a
major sawing operation.
• Squeeze the throttle trigger and allow the engine to reach full
speed before cutting.
• Begin cutting with the chainsaw frame against the log.
• Keep the engine at full speed the entire time you are cutting.
• Allow the chain to cut for you. Exert only light downward
pressure. If you force the cut, damage to the bar, chain or
engine can result.
• Release the throttle trigger as soon as the cut is completed,
allowing the engine to idle. If you run the chainsaw at full
throttle without a cutting load, unnecessary wear can occur to
the chain, bar and engine. It is recommended that the engine
not be operated for longer than 30 seconds at full throttle.
• To avoid losing control when cut is complete, do not put
pressure on chainsaw at end of cut.
• Stop the engine before setting the chainsaw down after cutting.
Check Chainsaw Lubrication
1. Start the chainsaw.
2. Hold the running chainsaw approximately 15cm above a trunk
or the ground (use appropriate base).
3. If the lubrication is sufficient, you will see a light oil trace
because oil will be flung off the chain.
4. If no oil trace is seen, check chain bar oil reservoir and clean
the chainsaw from debris/dirt.
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