How to Use a Chainsaw Safely In Your Garden

How to Use a Chainsaw Safely In Your Garden

Chainsaws are versatile tools to use in your garden for jobs like cutting firewood, clearing hedges, and pruning bushes. 

They are commonly used for removing dead or overgrown branches and small trees.

Chainsaws can be powerful and effective tools, but they must be used in the correct way.

Here is an overview of safety tips and considerations to help you operate your chainsaw safely and minimize the risk of injury when use it in the garden, like clearing a space for a new chicken coop.

Familiarize Yourself with the Controls

Your electric or petrol chainsaw should have safety devices, which are required by law, and these must be in working order and never tampered with.

These include a bar cover, a chain brake, a chain catcher, and a throttle lock lever.

The bar cover is used for safe storage and transport of the tool, the chain brake stops the chain from moving when pushed forward, the chain catcher restrains the chain if it becomes derailed, and the throttle lock lever release the throttle lock when pressed, preventing the chain from being driven unintentionally.

Basic PPE

As with all powerful tools and machinery, wearing suitable safety gear is a must.

Never wear baggy clothing, scarves, or loose jewellery items as these can get caught in the chainsaw.

Use a quality chainsaw sharpener to keep your saw sharp and safe to use.

You will need to wear basic personal protective equipment (PPE), including protective eyewear or a face shield, noise-filtering earplugs, chain-resistant or anti-cut clothing, and a helmet.

Chain-resistant clothing often bears a label depicting a shield with a chainsaw. All safety gear should be certified and comply with safety standards.

Tips before Starting

Before getting stuck into your first chainsaw task, make sure the working area is well-lit and clear of any debris or electrical cables. 

If you have an electric chainsaw, do not use it if it is raining or the area is damp.

Use petrol chainsaws outdoors only or in well-ventilated areas because the exhaust fumes are toxic.

Ensure that the working area is clear and there are no pets or people nearby, particularly if you are felling trees.

Precautions to Prevent Kickback

Hold your chainsaw firmly with both hands, with your left hand gripping the front handle and your right hand on the rear handle. This applies to left-hand operators, too.

Kickback refers to when the guide bar is thrown up and back towards the operator. It can happen when the nose at the end of the guide bar comes into contact with something.

Chainsaw users must take all precautions to prevent kickback.

Never cut with the top of the guide bar; cut from top to bottom, and only use your chainsaw below waist level.

If you need to move around when operating your chainsaw, engage the chain brake first. Work at a slow, leisurely pace and do not rush through tasks.

To End

Chainsaws can be the perfect addition to your garden shed, and they are a versatile addition to your gardening routine, provided they are used safely.

Follow the guide above to use your chainsaw safely and effectively.