Chainsaw Safety

Why it matters

A chainsaw does not nick; it removes. Kickback happens in a fraction of a second when the bar tip catches, and the saw travels toward your face faster than you can react. Chaps, helmets, and technique are not for beginners; they are for everyone who plans to keep using both legs.

Hazards

• ⚠ Kickback from the upper bar tip contacting wood
• ⚠ Cutting above shoulder height or one-handed
• ⚠ No chaps: the thigh is the most common chainsaw injury site
• ⚠ Spring poles and tension wood releasing violently
• ⚠ Bystanders inside the drop and swing zone

Controls and safe practices

• ✓ Full PPE per 1910.266(d): leg protection (chaps), head protection, eye and face, hearing, and cut-resistant boots.
• ✓ Two hands on the saw, thumb wrapped, cutting below shoulder height, feet planned.
• ✓ Watch the bar tip; use the bottom of the bar and let the chain reach full speed before contact.
• ✓ Read tension and compression before cutting limbs; cut spring poles at the right point or leave them for the most experienced.
• ✓ Maintain the chain brake, sharp chain, and correct tension; a dull chain forces pressure and causes kickback.
• ✓ Clear everyone at least two tree lengths for felling; one saw operator per area.

Crew discussion questions

1. Who is running saws today, and is their PPE complete including chaps?
2. What cuts today involve tension or spring poles?
3. Where is the drop zone, and who keeps it clear?
4. When were the chains last sharpened and the brakes tested?

Applicable OSHA standards

29 CFR 1910.266

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