Common sense and caution

Press, 1 July 1983, Page 19

Common sense and caution

The chainsaw is an important tool in New Zealand not only for forestry workers and farmers but, increasingly, in a domestic sense as an aid to cutting firewood and managing garden trees. With chainsaws more commonly available and more people making use of them, it is important that they are used in a safe and sensible manner. Chainsaw accidents are particularly ugly: anything that can cut through a tree trunk like butter is liable to make a mess of flesh and blood, and while the manufacturers do all in their power to make their saws safe, it is ultimately up to the operator to exercise common sense and caution.

Reading the instruction manual might appear to be

an obvious first move but surprising numbers of would-be operators never bother to do so. The saw should be checked thoroughly before each use. Critical parts should be inspected for wear, cracks or other damage; all nuts and screws should be checked and the handles should be kept clean and free from oil or fuel. If any parts are damaged they should be replaced with genuine spares; improvisations can be extremely dangerous.

The chain should be kept sharp and its tension checked regularly. If the saw is equipped with a chain brake, that should also be checked. The chain should be tight but still easily moved along the guide bar when both chain

and bare are cold. Only adjust the chain or bar when the engine is stopped and cold. Chain saws are powered by a two stroke engine and fuelled by a misture of petrol and oil. The mixture should be in the correct proportions, according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and the oil should be clean and of high quality. One of the most common chainsaw accidents occurs through “kick-back” — whenthe saw tip comes into direct contact with a branch or log. This throws the machine back towards the operator and serious injury can result. If the operator maintains a firm footing, keeps a good grip of the chainsaw and cuts only with the straight sections of the guide bar, the dangers • of

“kick-back” can be minimised. Appropriate clothing is important to a chainsaw operator. Loose clothes, scarves, ties and jewellery can all cause accidents, It is imperative that safety accessories be used to avoid long-term as well as immediate dangers. A safety helmet, face visor or safety glasses, ear protectors, gloves and boots are minimum requirements. Chainsawing is not a spectactor sport. People and animals should be kept at a safe distance and a fast exit should always be left for the operator in case of emergency. Neither is it recommended that an operator work alone — he should be in view of at least one other person capable of rendering assistance, if necessary.