SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
3 Most kickback accidents happen during limbing. Make
How to avoid kickback
sure you are standing Ţrmly and that there is nothing in
the way that might make you trip or lose your balance. WARNING! Kickback can happen very
suddenly and violently; kicking the chain Lack of concentration can lead to kickback if the kickback !
saw, bar and chain back at the user. If this zone of the bar accidentally touches a branch, nearby tree
happens when the chain is moving it can or some other object.
cause very serious, even fatal injuries. It is
vital you understand what causes kickback
and that you can avoid it by taking care and
using the right working technique.
What is kickback?
The word kickback is used to describe the sudden reaction
that causes the chain saw and bar to jump off an object when
the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar, known as the kickback
zone, touches an object.
4 Never use the chain saw above shoulder height and try
not to cut with the tip of the bar. Never use the chain saw
one-handed!
Kickback always occurs in the cutting plane of the bar.
Normally the chain saw and bar are thrown backwards and
upwards towards the user. However, the chain saw may move
in a different direction depending on the way it was being used
when the kickback zone of the bar touched the object.
5 You must have a steady stance in order to have full control
over the chain saw. Never work standing on a ladder, in a
tree or where you do not have Ţrm ground to stand on.
Kickback only occurs if the kickback zone of the bar touches
an object.
6 Always use a fast cutting speed, i.e. full throttle.
7 Take great care when you cut with the top edge of the bar,
i.e. when cutting from the underside of the object. This is
General rulesknown as cutting on the push stroke. The chain tries to
push the chain saw back towards the user.
1 If you understand what kickback is and how it happens
then you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
By being prepared you reduce the risk. Kickback is usually
quite mild, but it can sometimes be very sudden and
violent.
2 Always hold the chain saw Ţrmly with your right hand on
the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle.
Wrap your Ţngers and thumbs around the handles. You Unless the user resists this pushing force there is a risk
should use this grip whether you are right-handed or left-that the chain saw will move so far backwards that only the
handed. This grip minimises the effect of kickback and lets kickback zone of the bar is in contact with the tree, which
you keep the chain saw under control. will lead to a kickback.
Do not let go of the handles!
English � 15 |
ACEC
