Lawn care blog
One day, I passed by a farm where I was scheduled to do some work, and unfortunately another labourer had had an accident with a chainsaw, what I saw made my blood go cold, chilled even! I remembered this scene when I looked at the chainsaw injuries statistics for every year, which amount to a figure close to 150 people. No one can overemphasize the need for safety when using a chainsaw.
Many people think that most timber related accidents can only occur when trees crash during felling, or when split by lightning. No one seems to remember that chainsaws pose a serious risk and that proper training for handling is paramount. If you have a chainsaw, you know it is the perfect workhorse for you, but then, if mishandled, it does have serious risks to it. Like I saw with this chap... It was nasty and it really brought gory images to my mind. With one foot on the log that he was splitting, he was actually cutting in the direction of his foot. I should also mention that the only protective clothing he was wearing was rubber wellingtons(!) and an overall. The HSA says that you should only use a chainsaw if you are very competent and if you have the right protective clothing. If you lack one or either of this two requirements, then you are mandated to use a professional chainsaw services provider. This means that you should fill a risk assessment form before you can start working with the chainsaw. This will make you alert as to the dangers that you face. If you live on a farm, you may regularly use a chainsaw and therefore it is wise to take a training course (there are many available). This will again make you competent to use a chainsaw. Protective clothes What should you wear when you are getting ready to use the chainsaw? Protective clothing, definitely. It is advisable to do this even for the smallest task that you intend to perform with the chainsaw. Your trainer will of course let you know about that. Note that while personal protective equipment may prevent injuries, some of the more profound ones like cuts from the chainsaw or falling trees may not be prevented by PPE. You should use protective clothing and gear such as:
Precautions Never work alone. You need someone watching you. And most importantly, have a first aid kit handy because even minor injuries need attention. If you have insurance, find out whether the chainsaw is included. If it is, the insurer will require that you always have a person present, always wear full protective gear, and that you must take a chainsaw usage course. Is all of the above important? Yes it is very important. Anything to keep you safe! That way, your use of a chainsaw will not pose any threat to other people or to yourself. http://www.familyhandyman.com/tools/power-tools/using-a-chain-saw-safely/view-allhas more information on how to use chainsaws safely and has the contact information for providers who offer chainsaw training. Safety checks for the chainsaw Don't start using the chainsaw blindly. Make sure that all of the following are in place: The on/off switch should be clearly visible
the chain brake Dead handle throttle for safety • Anti vibration mounts • Exhaust pipe that should be facing away from the operator, if you are using a gas petrol powered chainsaw • Chain cover for storage and transportation • A full toolbox for preventative maintenance and repairs
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AuthorHi I'm a lawn and gardening enthusiast, here to share my experience and advice. Archives
May 2017
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