Last update: 13/12/2021

There are many jobs where workers require a chainsaw, such as cutting down dead trees or shortening wooden poles. This handy but dangerous tool is used in all kinds of sectors, from gardening services and zoos to maintenance services and the fire brigade.

Using a chainsaw carries certain risks. Fortunately, by implementing the correct measures and the wearing of personal protective equipment (PPE), these risks can be significantly reduced.

What are the risks when working with a chainsaw?

Below, we have outlined the most common dangers associated with working with chainsaws and power saws, while also explaining what you can do to reduce any risk of injury.

Being adequately protected is extremely important when using a chainsaw, meaning that a chainsaw and the correct PPE go hand in hand!

All PPE when working with a chainsaw

#1 Excessive noise exposure

A chainsaw produces a lot of noise, meaning that frequent use can lead to hearing loss.

This can be prevented by using adequate hearing protection. Make sure to choose ear defenders that can be combined with a chainsaw helmet and a face shield.

#2 Kickback: an unexpected danger

A chainsaw may suddenly and uncontrollably shoot up if you saw using the tip of the saw blade. The preventative measure is simply not to saw using the saw tip. It is also important to turn your face away slightly and work steadily when holding a chainsaw.

#3 Danger of falling pieces of wood

While trimming certain trees, for example, large pieces of wood may unexpectedly fall, potentially injuring the person sawing or other bystanders.

To avoid the risk of falling wood, always make sure to carry out an inspection before going to work with the chainsaw. In addition, it is imperative that everyone stands at a minimum distance from the tree, while also wearing an approved safety helmet.

#4 Contact with the rotating chain

Even a brief contact with a rotating chain can be enough to cause lacerations, open wounds and even amputations. Fortunately, there are several measures in place to reduce the risk of this occurring.

Use a chainsaw with a safety chain and be sure to always engage the chain brake. In addition, specialised protective chainsaw clothing, a chainsaw helmet and a face shield protect the body from the dangers of a rotating chain.

Keeping a close eye on the nose of the guide bar and keeping the engine close to your body also increases the safety of working with a chainsaw.

#5 Cold and vibrations

Other risks to consider are those posed by the cold and chainsaw vibrations. Both can lead to a loss of grip on the chainsaw, which can lead to numerous consequences. This can be prevented by wearing protective impact gloves.

Furthermore, the chain saw's rubber mounts should be replaced regularly. Using an appropriate and correctly sharpened chain can also prevent nasty accidents. Finally, make sure you are relaxed while you work.

#6 Flying sawdust and pieces of wood

Breathing in sawdust clouds can lead to respiratory problems, while projectile pieces of wood can equally cause injury. Wearing the correct type of protective clothing and PPE is therefore essential.

Moreover, sawdust becomes less of a problem when working below shoulder height.

When blowing sawdust out of your chainsaw during maintenance, wear safety glasses and hearing protection. One of our employees speaks from experience.

#7 Toxic exhaust fumes

Although you may not realise it, because chainsaws run on petrol, their exhausts emit a large amount of gases. These can prove to be toxic.

Therefore, you should only work with a chainsaw outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.

Moreover, be sure to fine-tune the engine and fuel combination to minimise total exhaust emissions.

#8 Contact with sharp or hot parts of the chainsaw

During maintenance, adjustment or repair you may come into contact with sharp parts of the chainsaw. To avoid injury, wear chainsaw gloves and use the correct tools.

Before carrying out any maintenance work, be sure to switch off the engine and allow the machine to cool down. This will prevent you from getting burnt on hot parts of the chainsaw.

#9 Risk of fire

A chainsaw or power saw uses petrol, while sparks may be emitted during operation. Two good reasons to make sure there is no fire in the vicinity.

You should also be especially careful with flammable substances.

Pro tip: Before adding fuel and oil, open the filler cap of your jerry can. This way the pressure (which often builds up slowly in hot weather) escapes from your jerry can.

#10 Working in public areas

Many jobs requiring a chainsaw take place in parks, on public roads and in public spaces. This means that there could be many people around that could be hit by falling branches, for example.

Make sure to clearly mark your designated working area with appropriate markings, such as folding warning signs or cordon tape.

Conclusion

All of these measures to prevent chainsaw accidents come down to two things. When working with a chainsaw, the wearing of correct personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential, while maintaining concentration is also key.

In addition, it is important that you receive sufficient training before you start operating a chainsaw.