It's the holidays! Do your workers use chain saws to cut logs for a nice holiday fire, or perhaps to cut a handsome holiday tree? If so—or if your workers are engaged in other work, such as tree-trimming, that requires the use of a chainsaw—they might need to be familiar with these chain saw safety tips from federal OSHA:

Before starting a chain saw:

• Check controls, chain tension, and all bolts and handles to ensure that they are functioning properly and that they are adjusted according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Make sure that the chain is always sharp and the lubrication reservoir is full.

• Start the saw on the ground or on another firm support. Drop starting is never allowed.

• Start the saw at least 10 feet from the fueling area, with the chain's brake engaged.

Fueling a chain saw:

• Use approved containers for transporting fuel to the saw.

• Dispense fuel at least 10 feet away from any sources of ignition when performing construction activities. No smoking during fueling.

• Use a funnel or a flexible hose when pouring fuel into the saw.

• Never attempt to fuel a running or HOT saw.

Chain saw safety:

• Clear away dirt, debris, small tree limbs and rocks from the saw's chain path. Look for nails, spikes or other metal in the tree before cutting.

• Shut off the saw or engage its chain brake when carrying the saw on rough or uneven terrain.

• Keep your hands on the saw's handles, and maintain secure footing while operating the saw.

• Proper personal protective equipment must be worn when operating the saw, which includes hand, foot, leg, eye, face, hearing and head protection.

• Do not wear loose-fitting clothing.

• Be careful that the trunk or tree limbs will not bind against the saw.

• Watch for branches under tension, they may spring out when cut.

• Gasoline-powered chain saws must be equipped with a protective device that minimizes chain saw kickback.

• Be cautious of saw kickback. To avoid kickback, do not saw with the tip. If equipped, keep tip guard in place.

Additional Resources:

Federal OSHA Chain Saw Safety Tips Quick Card (in English)

Federal OSHA Chain Saw Safety Tips Quick Card (in Spanish)

"Trainer's Handbook: Help Your Workers Get a Grip on Hand Tool Safety," in the November 2006 issue of COCA (Requires subscription or trial)

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