Safe Operation of Chainsaws: 10 Steps to Keep You Safe

by | Jul 17, 2022 | Blog, Featured Posts, General Construction Safety in QLD | 0 comments

Operating Chainsaw Blog Post Featured Image
Chainsaws are immensely popular tools used in the construction industry. While they are incredibly useful, they can also can be dangerous pieces of equipment if not operated safely. In this blog post, we will go over 10 steps that you can take to safely operate a chainsaw and reduce the risk of injury.

Chainsaws can cause serious injuries if not used properly. The most common type of injury from a chainsaw is a laceration, which can occur when the chain comes into contact with your skin. Other common injuries include fractures, amputations, and crush injuries.

Tips for Safe Operation of Chainsaws:

  1. Before starting your chainsaw, be sure to read the owner’s manual. This will provide you with important safety information that you need to know before using the saw. Once you have read the manual, familiarise yourself with the saw by checking all of the moving parts and controls. Make sure that everything is in good working order and that there are no loose or missing parts. Become familiar with the controls of the chainsaw and know how to stop the blade quickly in case of an emergency.
  2. Be aware of your surroundings and be sure to clear away any potential hazards, such as rocks or branches, before beginning to cut. Make sure there are no people or animals nearby that could be injured if something went wrong. 
  3. Once you have checked the saw, put on the proper safety gear. This includes gloves, eye protection, ear protection, and a hard hat. Be sure that all of your clothing is snug-fitting and that there are no loose items that could get caught in the saw.
  4. Be sure to have a firm grip on the saw and that your feet are firmly planted on the ground. If you are cutting something that is taller than you, be sure to use a stool or other object to stand on so that you can reach the top of the item.
  5. When cutting with your chainsaw, be sure to keep the saw in front of you and use both hands. Do not try to cut with the saw held above your head, as this can be dangerous. Also, be sure to keep your fingers away from the chain while it is running.
  6. If you need to stop the chainsaw for any reason, be sure to turn it off completely. Do not try to stop the saw by letting go of it, as this can be dangerous.
  7. Never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  8. Keep the chainsaw blade sharp to avoid kickback. If the chainsaw does kick back, let go of it immediately and step away from the blade.
  9. Never put your hand near the moving chain.
  10. Always use caution when cutting above your head or near power lines.

What to do if you are injured by a chainsaw:

  • If you are injured while using a chainsaw, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. 
  • Even if the injury seems minor, it is always better to be safe than sorry. 
  • If you have any questions about the proper care of your injury, be sure to consult with a medical professional. 

Chainsaws are handy tools that can make quick work of many tasks, however, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Always follow these steps to help you stay safe when operating a chainsaw.

This Post Is Part Of A Series: 101 Toolbox Topic Ideas For The Construction Industry
Do you struggle to come up with toolbox talk ideas each week to discuss with your workers? Fear no more, Work Safety QLD is here to the rescue with 101 Free Toolbox Talk Ideas for the Construction Industry.

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts:

How to Stay Safe When Working in Confined Spaces

How to Stay Safe When Working in Confined Spaces

Working in a confined space presents many safety hazards that can lead to serious injury or even death. To help keep you safe, here are some important tips to follow when working in a confined space.

Bricklaying Safety

Bricklaying Safety

Bricklaying is a dangerous job, and safety should always be a top priority. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common dangers faced by bricklayers and how to avoid them. We’ll also share some tips on what to do if you or someone you know is injured while working.

How to Use an Arc Welder Safely

How to Use an Arc Welder Safely

If you’re going to be working with an arc welder, it’s important that you understand how to use it safely. In this blog post, we’ll cover some basic safety tips that you should keep in mind when operating an arc welder.

Brick Cleaning Safety

Brick Cleaning Safety

When dealing with bricks, it is important to protect yourself from potential injury. Even the smallest of bricks can have jagged edges, chunks of mortar stuck to them and other sharp objects that could easily cause cuts and scrapes. Read this blog to learn about brick cleaning safety.

Is Your Workplace Safe? A Guide to Managing the Risks of Confined Spaces

Is Your Workplace Safe? A Guide to Managing the Risks of Confined Spaces

Every workplace has its own set of risks, and it’s important for employers to understand how to mitigate these risks. Confined spaces can be particularly dangerous, as they often contain hidden hazards that can cause serious injury or death. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the dangers of confined spaces and provide tips on how to safely manage these risks. We’ll also look at some specific examples of confined spaces, so you can better understand how to protect your employees.

When Should A Risk Assessment Be Carried Out

When Should A Risk Assessment Be Carried Out

Risk assessments are an important part of any business. They help to identify potential risks so you can create a plan to mitigate them. But when should you carry out a risk assessment? And what should be included in the report? In this blog post, we will answer these questions.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our free email newsletter to recieve weekly tips, tricks, guides and resources for Work Health and Safety in Queensland. We send free weekly Work Health & Safety templates, resources and information.

Sign up for free today!

You have Successfully Subscribed!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This