the wood. This sudden stopping of the chain results in a reversal of the chain force used to cut wood and causes the saw to move in the opposite direction of the chain rotation.
Avoid Pinch-Kickback:
SBe extremely aware of situations or ob- structions that can cause material to pinch the top of or otherwise stop the chain.
SDo not cut more than one log at a time. S Do not twist the saw as the bar is with- drawn from an undercut when bucking.
Avoid Pull-In:
SAlways begin cutting with the engine at full speed and the saw housing against
wood.
SUse wedges made of plastic or wood. Never use metal to hold the cut open.
Kickback Path
Avoid Obstructions
Clear The Working Area
REDUCE THE CHANCE OF KICKBACK
SRecognize that kickback can happen. With a basic understanding of kickback,
you can reduce the element of surprise which contributes to accidents.
SNever let the moving chain contact any object at the tip of the guide bar.
SKeep the working area free from ob- structions such as other trees, branches, rocks, fences, stumps, etc. Eliminate or avoid any obstruction that your saw chain could hit while you are cutting through a particular log or
branch.
SKeep your saw chain sharp and properly tensioned. A loose or dull chain can in- crease the chance of kickback occur- ring. Follow manufacturer ’s chain sharp- ening and maintenance instructions. Check tension at regular intervals with
the engine stopped, never with the en- gine running. Make sure the bar clamp nuts are securely tightened after ten- sioning the chain.
SBegin and continue cutting at full speed. If the chain is moving at a slower speed, there is greater chance of kickback oc-
curring.
SCut one log at a time.
SUse extreme caution when
SDo not attempt cuts starting with the tip
of the bar (plunge cuts).
SWatch for shifting logs or other forces that could close a cut and pinch or fall
into chain.
SUse the
MAINTAIN CONTROL
Stand to the left of the saw
Never reverse hand positions
Elbow locked
Thumb on underside of handlebar
SKeep a good, firm grip on the saw with both hands when the engine is running and don’t let go. A firm grip will help you reduce kickback and maintain control of the saw. Keep the fingers of your left hand encircling and your left thumb un- der the front handlebar. Keep your right hand completely around the rear handle whether your are right handed or left handed. Keep your left arm straight with
the elbow locked.
SPosition your left hand on the front han- dlebar so it is in a straight line with your right hand on the rear handle when mak- ing bucking cuts. Never reverse right and left hand positions for any type of cutting.
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