The chainsaw is an essential tool on many farms in Ireland but is also one of the most dangerous when not used in a safe manner. Here are some top tips to stay safe when using a chainsaw on your farm

Training and personal protective equipment

If used incorrectly, the chainsaw is one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment. Due to the hazardous nature of working with chainsaws, it is recommended that persons receive appropriate training from a competent training provider. Alternatively, a competent person should be contracted to complete the work. The list of equipment required to work with a chainsaw is: safety helmet, suitable eye protection, ear defenders, chainsaw gloves, Chainsaw trousers, steel toecap boots and there should always be a first aid kit close at hand. If any of these pieces of equipment is not available, work with a chainsaw should not commence.

Right-handed use

Chainsaws are manufactured for use in a right-handed way. Your right hand should be operating the throttle and your left hand should be on the handle with your thumb below the bar at all times. Operating a chainsaw in a left-handed manner will mean that some of the in-built safety devices will not work. A chainsaw should always be started on ground level with your right foot holding the back handle and your left hand on the front handle. After checking the blade is clear, the pull cord should be pulled with your right hand only.

Maintenance

Periodic maintenance should be carried out by a qualified person. This includes checking and changing any filters or parts which may cause the saw to run incorrectly or erratically. Correct fuel mix is essential to the longevity and smooth running of these machines. The chain on your saw should be checked for wear and sharpened often during the day as a broken chain can be very dangerous. The chain lubrication system should also be checked regularly.

Safety systems on the saw

All saws should have a clearly marked on/off switch, chain brake (incorporating a front hand guard), safety dead handle throttle, chain catcher, rear handguard, anti-vibration mounts, exhaust system to direct fumes away from the operator and chain cover for transportation. An adequate tool kit for preventative and corrective maintenance should always be carried with the saw.

Safety of operator and others

A chain saw should never be used above shoulder height. Chainsaws should never be used when standing on a ladder, unless the operator is a trained tree surgeon and the ladder is securely tied in position. In order to ensure the safety of the operator and others, the HSA suggest that a distance of twice the height of the tree being felled is kept. When the saw is not being used it should never be left idling on the ground it should be stopped and restarted when required. When moving from one area to another the saw should not be carried while still running. The operator should always be alert, never use a chainsaw when you are tired. Avoid working alone when operating a chainsaw. If this is not possible, put in place procedures to raise the alarm if something goes wrong (for example, use of a mobile phone).

Electrical safety

When using a chainsaw it is essential to always check the area for any electrical cabling that may be hidden in the tree being felled and also that there are not electricity cables or poles in the fall path of the tree after it is cut.