Running engine slowly at start of or during cut. Dull or loose chain. Cutting above shoulder height. Inattention in holding or guiding saw while cutting. Do not attempt to operate the saw while in a tree, on a ladder or on any other unstable surface. Be sure of your footing and pre-plan a safe exit from a falling tree or limbs. When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for springback so that you or your Swamper(s) will not be struck when the tension is released. Use extreme caution when cutting small size brush and saplings because slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance. Vibration – Avoid prolonged operation of your chainsaw and rest periodically, especially if your hand or arm starts to have loss of feeling, swell or become difficult to move. Exhaust fumes – Do not operate your chainsaw in confined or poorly ventilated areas. Observe all local fire prevention regulations. It is recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher and shovel close at hand whenever you cut in areas where dry grass, leaves or other flammable materials are present. Note: Spark arrester screens are available for installation in your muffler, where fire regulations require them. Check local regulations for your special requirements. Turn off your saw when moving between cuts and before setting it down. Always carry the chainsaw with the engine stopped, the guide bar and saw chain in the rear, and the muffler away from your body. Use wedges to help control felling and prevent binding the bar and chain in the cut. Don’t touch or try to stop a moving chain with your hand. Don’t allow any other person or animal close to a running saw or where a tree is being cut down. Don’t touch or let your hand come in contact with a hot muffler, spark arrester or spark plug wire. Don’t run the saw without a muffler, exhaust stack or spark arrester. Keep screens and baffles clean. Keep spark plug caps clean and in good repair. Replace promptly if necessary.
Running engine slowly at start of or during cut. Dull or loose chain. Cutting above shoulder height. Inattention in holding or guiding saw while cutting. Do not attempt to operate the saw while in a tree, on a ladder or on any other unstable surface. Be sure of your footing and pre-plan a safe exit from a falling tree or limbs. When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for springback so that you or your Swamper(s) will not be struck when the tension is released. Use extreme caution when cutting small size brush and saplings because slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance. Vibration – Avoid prolonged operation of your chainsaw and rest periodically, especially if your hand or arm starts to have loss of feeling, swell or become difficult to move. Exhaust fumes – Do not operate your chainsaw in confined or poorly ventilated areas. Observe all local fire prevention regulations. It is recommended that you keep a fire extinguisher and shovel close at hand whenever you cut in areas where dry grass, leaves or other flammable materials are present. Note: Spark arrester screens are available for installation in your muffler, where fire regulations require them. Check local regulations for your special requirements. Turn off your saw when moving between cuts and before setting it down. Always carry the chainsaw with the engine stopped, the guide bar and saw chain in the rear, and the muffler away from your body. Use wedges to help control felling and prevent binding the bar and chain in the cut. Don’t touch or try to stop a moving chain with your hand. Don’t allow any other person or animal close to a running saw or where a tree is being cut down. Don’t touch or let your hand come in contact with a hot muffler, spark arrester or spark plug wire. Don’t run the saw without a muffler, exhaust stack or spark arrester. Keep screens and baffles clean. Keep spark plug caps clean and in good repair. Replace promptly if necessary.
FINAL_Final_NCT_Safety_Handbook-1-1.docx