Summary Notes
Notes from the GardenAdvice.co.uk basic use and safely on the use of petrol chainsaws
Section 1: Chainsaw Maintenance
- Keep the chainsaw clean to ensure efficiency and longevity.
- Remove the chain from the bar and clean with oily rags.
- Clean the oil guides, as sawdust can block them and prevent lubrication to the chain
- Clean the air filter by tapping and blowing on it or cleaning with petrol.
- Inspect and clean the spark plug. Test by holding it against the cowling and pulling the cord to check for sparks in the plug gap
- Adjust the chain tension so that it moves freely but has no more than 5mm (¼ inch) of slack pulling the chain away from the bar.
- Use two-stroke fuel. If unused for a while, shake the machine to reintegrate the oil into the petrol or change for fresh petrol. Only fill or replace the fuel when the chainsaw is cold and use a funnel.
- Add chain oil to the reservoir for proper chain lubrication.
Section 2: Equipment and Safety Gear
- Essential tools: chainsaw file (for sharpening), chainsaw spanner (combination tool), and spare spark plugs.
- Safety gear:
- Helmet with visor and ear defenders.
- Tough gloves.
- Steel toe cap boots.
- Protective clothing, ideally made of chainsaw-resistant material with fibres that stop the chain upon contact.
Section 3: Starting and Operating the Chainsaw
- Starting procedure:
- Place the saw on the ground.
- Put one foot inside the rear handle.
- Hold the bar firmly and pull the starter cord.
- If the chainsaw doesn’t fire after a few pulls, check the spark plug or prime the fuel with the small pump found on the side of the chain saw.
- Always know the stop button location in case of emergency.
- Never use the tip of the chainsaw, as this can cause kickback (violent backward movement).
- Avoid using the chainsaw directly in front of your body; keep it to the side.
- Check chain tension regularly—a loose chain may come off and cause injury.
- Warm up the chainsaw before use by revving it for a few minutes once started.
Section 4: Chainsaw Handling and Worksite Safety
- Maintain situational awareness:
- Plan an escape route in case something goes wrong so you can walk away safely.
- Be aware of brambles, obstacles, other people, and animals.
- Remember, ear defenders limit your ability to hear others.
- Avoid overconfidence, but also don’t be hesitant—confidence should be balanced for safe operation.
- Limit vibration exposure:
- Excessive chainsaw use can lead to white finger, a serious and irreversible condition where the blood from your fingers is vibrated out of the cells in your hand or fingers by the vibration of the chain saw.
- Use the chainsaw for a maximum of 10 minutes at a time, then take breaks to sharpen the chainsaw or tidy up.
Section 5: Cutting Techniques and Avoiding Traps
- Plan your cuts carefully:
- Avoid compression wood (wood that closes the gaps created by sawing and traps the saw).
- When cutting large branches or logs, make an initial cut underneath to prevent binding or compression wood.
- Use plastic or metal wedges to free a trapped chainsaw rather than forcing it out. Always switch the saw off.
- If unsure or something seems wrong, stop the chainsaw, place it on the ground, and walk away before reassessing.
Section 6: First Aid and Emergency Preparedness
- Always carry a first aid kit.
Have a clear plan for medical emergencies, including access to communication and transport to medical facilities.
