Ensure your employees are safe when using petrol chainsaws

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by: Lee H Phillips
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Word Count: 481
Date: Sat, 23 Jul 2011 Time: 12:30 PM
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Petrol chainsaws can be an invaluable power tool for a number of tasks, but for employers setting workers to use this piece of equipment, it is very important to remember it is a lethal item too, accidents can happen, and measures must be taken to ensure safety in the work place.

A chainsaw running at full throttle is extremely dangerous; it passes each tooth through the wood at least 10 times per second, so it is easy to imagine what it could do to a person if there was an accident. Ensure your employees aren't part of the statistics of those in A&E relating to chainsaw accidents, and keep employees properly trained in the safe operation of this power tool.

Simple steps will ensure the best chance of staying safe using this tool. Train employees in how to use the petrol chainsaw by using the following advice:

1. Keep the chain brake engaged until they are ready to cut. In addition, while the chainsaw is running, keep it at full throttle. This will reduce the chances of it kicking back

2. Safety clothing is vital when using a petrol chainsaw. Your head and face in particular should be protected, but arms and legs can also be protected, Face screens, ear protectors, gloves and hard hats all come into this, and remember to refrain from wearing baggy clothing which could get caught. You can get chainsaw leggings for further protection

3. To avoid chainsaw kickback, don't allow the upper part of the chainsaw nose to touch the wood or any other obstacle. This will lead to kick back. To prepare yourself for the possibility of kick back, position your body so that the chainsaw will pass to the side not towards your head or neck

4. Be aware and alert at all times when using a petrol chainsaw. Don't allow any distractions around you and keep everyone well away while you are working
5. Don't stand on a ladder or unsafe surface to use a chainsaw

6. Consider enrolling employees on a chainsaw course to ensure they are trained as well as possible

7. Invest in a sharpening device - such as a file or grinder. A chainsaw can go blunt and sharpening will make a difference

8. Take your time when using a chainsaw - there is no rush

9. Try to purchase a lightweight chainsaw that you won't have trouble holding.

10. A chainsaw with anti vibration dampeners will make the chainsaw more comfortable to use for long periods and protects hands and arms

11. Some chainsaws include automatic chain gear lubrication which will make changing gears easier

12. Primer pump technology will make starting the chainsaw easy

13. When cleaning or sharpening the chainsaw always ensure it is switched off and on safety mode

14. It goes without saying but ensure children and animals are kept away when you are using a chainsaw

15. Read the instructions to the chainsaw properly before starting use

About the Author

Lee H Phillips from Cambridgeshire writes exclusively for the DIY and home improvement industry. Lee often provides online reviews, news stories and articles on products such as, petrol lawnmowers and garden machinery.