How to Safely Use a Chainsaw: The Do’s and Don’ts

While chainsaws are very useful tools, they can be very dangerous if not used properly. Every year, there are many reports of people being injured or killed as a result of not following proper safety guidelines when using chainsaws.

While a chainsaw can make quick work of these tasks, it’s also a dangerous tool that must be used with caution. Let’s go over how to safely use a chainsaw.

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How to Safely Use a Chainsaw: The Do’s and Don’ts

There are a few key things to remember when using a chainsaw to help avoid accidents.

Safety Check – Always make sure the saw is in good condition before using it. This means checking the chain, bar, and other parts for wear and tear, and making sure they are properly lubricated.
Read the instruction manual before using the chainsaw – This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people try to operate a chainsaw without familiarizing themselves with the specific model they are using. Each chainsaw is different, so it’s important to know how yours works before using it.
Wear the proper safety gear – This includes gloves, eye protection, ear protection, and steel-toed boots. Loose clothing or jewelry should also be avoided as they can get caught in the chain.
Start with the right saw for the job – A smaller saw is easier to control than a larger one. If you’re not sure which size to use, ask someone at your local home improvement store for help.
Use a sharp chain – A dull chain will not only make your job harder, but it can also be more dangerous as it’s more likely to kick back. Be sure to sharpen the chain regularly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Be aware of your surroundings and plan your cuts accordingly – Tripping hazards are the leading cause of work-related injuries, so be sure to identify and remove them. You should also stay aware of where other people are in relation to you while you’re working.
Start the chainsaw on the ground – Never start a chainsaw while you’re holding it in your hands, as this increases the chances of kickback. Always stop the chainsaw and let it fully stop before moving it to another area. This will help avoid accidents from kickbacks.

What should you not do with a chainsaw?

Don’t use a chainsaw when you’re tired or angry – You need to be alert when operating a chainsaw, as even small mistakes can have serious consequences. If you’re feeling tired or agitated, take a break or put the saw away until you can focus properly on the task at hand.
Don’t overreach – Keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, and don’t try to reach too far forward when making cuts. If you need to cut something that is out of reach, use a ladder or tree stand instead of trying to stretch too far.
Don’t force the saw – Let the saw do the work, and don’t try to force it through the material you’re cutting. If the saw is having trouble cutting through something, stop and sharpen the chain before continuing. Forcing the saw will not only make your job harder, but it can also damage the saw or cause injury.
Don’t put yourself in an awkward position – Trying to cut something while contorting your body into an unnatural position is asking for trouble – and an injury. Stop and reposition yourself if you find yourself in an uncomfortable or dangerous position while operating the chainsaw.
Don’t let people get between your chainsaw and the object you are cutting – If there are other people working around you, make sure they know to stay out of your path and keep a safe distance. If they come too close while you’re operating the chainsaw, it could cause an accident or injury.
Don’t use a chainsaw in bad weather conditions – High winds can make it difficult to control the saw, and rain can make surfaces slick and more likely to cause an accident. Always be aware of the weather conditions before using a chainsaw, and postpone your work if necessary.
Don’t use a chainsaw while under the influence of drugs or alcohol – Not only is this illegal in most states, but it is also extremely dangerous. Your judgment and coordination will be impaired, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Don’t try to cut through nails or metal with your chainsaw – Not only will this damage your saw blade, but it could also cause serious injury if a piece of metal flies off and hits you. If you need to cut through something like this, use a different tool such as a hacksaw or bolt cutter.
Don’t use a chainsaw that is too small or too large for you – A chainsaw that is too large for you will be difficult to control, while a chainsaw that is too small will not be powerful enough to cut through most materials. Always choose a saw that is the right size for your needs, and make sure you are comfortable using it before beginning work.