The Chainsaw Safety Guide

 
A chainsaw is an essential tool for any amateur gardener or craftsmen, but it is absolutely essential that you know how to use this power tool safely as it can be incredibly dangerous and accidents unfortunately are common but avoidable. According to the Centres for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), there are around 36,000 chainsaw-related injuries each year in the US which highlights why safety needs to be a priority.
Chainsaw Uses
Chainsaws can be used in a wide number of different ways whether this is tree pruning, vegetation management or sawing through wood. A chainsaw can be incredibly useful but care needs to be taken every time that it is used and there are a few ways that you can promote safety and avoid any accidents when using a chainsaw.
Reading the Manual & Checking the Tool
First, user information is key which will involve reading through the owner’s manual which will tell you all that you need to know on how to use the tool and how to stay safe. You should also check the key components for any sign of damage, check that the controls are working as they should, make sure the fuel and lubrication system is filled to the right level and sharpen the teeth prior to use. 
PPE
In addition to this, you should also have personal protective equipment (PPE) that will protect you while using a chainsaw and this should always be worn when using a chainsaw. This must include goggles, ear defenders, work gloves, chainsaw trousers, safety boots and hard hats.
Safe Usage
When using the chainsaw, you must always keep two hands on the tool and turn it off if you need to use your other hand for something. You should never cut above your head or use one on a ladder and never cut wood being held by someone else. It is a smart idea to invest in a battery-operated chainsaw as these are easier to manoeuvre and you do not have to worry about cables getting in the way and being a trip hazard. The Ryobi range from places like SGS should certainly be considered as the universal battery can easily be used in over 70 other tools in their range making it a great range of tools for any gardener or craftsmen. 
Chainsaw safety needs to be a priority anytime that it is being used no matter whether it is the first time you are using the tool or the 100th. Accidents can happen when you are not careful with this tool and obviously these can be severe, but when you know how to maintain the tool, protect yourself and use it safely, you should be able to use it with confidence and it is certainly a useful tool to have for any gardener or craftsmen.
 
 

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