Whether you're cutting 4x4's on the job or preparing firewood at home for the coming winter season, today's lightweight chainsaws make the task easier and less time consuming.  If not used properly however, chainsaws can inflict severe or fatal injuries.  If you use a chain saw at work or home, keep the following safety rules in mind:

Keep fuel clearly labeled safety cans and fill chain saw over ground that presents no fire hazard.  Move at least 10 feet away from fueling spot before starting saw.

Always wait for saw to cool before refueling.  Never refuel while saw is hot.  Keep fire extinguisher handy.

Keep the saw clean and free from leaves, sawdust, pitch tar and oil.  Keep the handles free of oil and grease.  Do not operate the saw with the fuel cap loose or missing.  Do not remove mufflers or filters.

Have all defects repaired before using the saw.  Keep the chain sharp and properly tensioned.  A dull improperly fitted or loose chain will chatter and buck, and can cause the saw to kick back.

Beware of falling limbs when working near trees.

Always keep both hands on the saw when it is running.

Never let the chain contact any obstacle other that the work at hand.  Never let if contact other limbs or touch the ground.

Keep clear of moving chain.  Do not touch it!

After completing the cut, don't move away until the chain stops.  Shut off the engine before carrying the saw between cuts and before making any saw repairs or adjustments.

Keep helpers and bystanders (especially children) a safe distance from the operator and cutting chain.

1 Have you ever witnessed or experienced a chain saw accident / injury?

2 What happened?

3 How could the accident have been prevented?

To show that you have received and understand this safety information, please sign and return one copy to the foreman at your Monday morning safety meeting.  Keep the other copy for your reference.

_________________________Date________
 

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