Chainsaw safety

In a recent period, forest workers who operate chainsaws suffered the highest fatality rates, 160 per 100,000 workers, compared with 26 per 100,000 for miners, according to Bureau of Labor statistics.

Chain saw safety starts with the proper PPE, according to Toolboxtopics.com: hard hats to protect from falling timber, cut resistant chaps, slip resistant footwear, safety glasses, ear muffs and hand protection.

Equipment maintenance is also essential. Workers should sharpen, lubricate and adjust the chain to maintain good cutting ability. They should inspect sprockets and replace them when worn. They should make sure chain brakes are installed and in good working order. And they should always shut off the saw before setting it on the ground for maintenance or at the end of a cut.

Employees must also practice safe cutting practices. Remove all snags before felling a tree and before proceeding with limbing and bucking. Never cut limbs with the saw crossing in front of the body. Keep the saw moving in the same plane as the trunk of the tree, with the feed and body behind the plane. Avoid cutting with the saw at or above shoulder height.