Chainsaws are one of the most common and most dangerous power tools that a homeowner can have. Yearly, chainsaws account for approximately 38,000 injuries, with an average cost of $7,500.

To reduce the risk of injury it is important that: the saw is the correct size and type for its intended use; the saw is equipped with all safety features; the operator wears all personal protective closing; and proper operational techniques are used.

Selecting a Chainsaw

When selecting a chainsaw it is important to have a clear understanding of your expectations of the saw. What size material will you be cutting? Will you be using the saw frequently or sporadically to clean up your yard? Will you be cutting logs, firewood, or pruning tree branches?

Gasoline vs. Electric

Gasoline powered chainsaws: Advantages Mobile Available power Disadvantages Heavier Pull-cord start High maintenance
Electric chainsaws Advantages Lighter Electric start Less maintenance Disadvantages Less power Power cord inhibits mobility

Engine size

Chainsaws are classified into two groups based on engine size. Any saw that has an engine displacement of less than 3.8 cubic inches is considered a homeowner or consumer saw. If the engine displacement is greater than 3.8 cubic inches the saw is then classified as a professional saw.

The weight of a chainsaw generally goes up as the engine displacement increases. While having more power will allow the use of a longer bar and thus being able to cut larger material, the weight gained might cause a lack of control and increased fatigue which can contribute to injuries.

Bar length

Bar length should be as short as possible, while being able to cut a material in single pass. As bars get longer the weight increases and the balance point shifts away from the power head causing a reduction the operator's ability to control the tip of the bar. To determine the size of bar that is needed it is important to remember that the maximum cutting capacity is twice the length of the bar.

Safety and convenience features

Front hand guard

A bar in front of the top handle designed to stop a slipping hand from coming in contact with the chain.

Chain brake (gasoline only)

Designed to stop a moving chain in a fraction of a second if kickback occurs, reducing the chances of severe injury. May also function as a front hand guard.

Throttle trigger lockout

Prevents the accidental opening of the throttle. The throttle trigger is locked in the idling position when the lockout is not engaged by the proper hand grip on the handle.

Stop switch

Should be located so that it can be activated easily by your right thumb without losing your grip on the rear handle of the saw.

Rear hand guard

The lower part of the rear handle on the chain saw is designed to protect the hand from a broken or jumping chain.

Chain catcher

Found on the bottom of the saw engine as far forward as possible. It is designed to catch a broken or jumping chain.

Vibration damping

Rubber bushings between the handle and saw body or on the engine mountings help reduce the operator's exposure to vibration.

Muffler

Designed to decrease the noise level and direct hot exhaust gases away from the operator. This may be combined with the spark arrester.

Spark arrester

Keeps sparks from being ejected by the exhaust. The sparks occur when carbon deposits in the cylinder break lose and are ignited by the exhaust gases. Spark arresters are required in many areas.

Quick start electronic ignition

Reduces the pulling force needed for starting (available on some gas models).

Automatic chain oiler

Lubricates for safe and efficient cutting.

Quick-adjust chain

Allows the user to change the cutting chain tension easily.

Exhaust air cleaning system

Cleans air before it gets to the air filter to help extend filter life.

Carrying case

Provides convenience and helps protect the saw.

Personal Protective Clothing

Personal protective equipment such as hard hats and chaps provide that operator protection from many of accidents that may happen when using a chainsaw. Hard hats - Protection from falling limbs and debris. Leg Protection - Synthetic fabric that is designed to prevent a running saw chain from coming in contact with your legs. Eye protection - Prevents injuries from flying wood chips, bark, and saw dust. Hearing protection - Reduces the harmful decibel of chainsaw. Mittens & Gloves - Protection of hands from abrasions, splinters, and vibration.

Chainsaw Operation

Starting the saw

• Engage the chain break
• Turn saw on
• Place saw on the ground with foot in rear handle or place rear handle between legs with left hand on front handle and right hand on pull rope. (See Photos)

Carrying a chainsaw

The chainsaw should be carried in your right hand with the bar facing the rear, with the chain break engaged. Carrying the saw in this manner will reduce the likelihood of burning yourself on the muffler or cutting yourself with the chain should you fall. If you are traveling more than 20 feet it is recommended that the saw is shut off before moving.

Saw operation

• The chainsaw should always be operated using both hands. The left hand should be placed on the front handle with the thumb wrapped around the handle. The right hand is used to hold the rear handle and control the throttle.
• Balance of the operator is important for safety and control of the saw. It is important that you don't be come overextended or work with the saw above your shoulders.
• Saws are designed to be run at full throttle. Always accelerate the saw to full throttle before initiating a cut.
• Be aware of kickback situations. Kick back is caused when the upper quadrant of the tip comes in contact with an object. When kick back occurs the cutter teeth take an oversized bite of wood causing the chain to stall and the saw to transfer power up and back toward the operator.

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Created: 2007-05-08 , Updated: 2007-08-03