Kickback Safety Precautions for Chain Saw Users

Rules for Safe Operation

A. Kickback Safety Precautions for Chain Saw Users

WARNING!

KICKBACK may occur when the nose or tip of the guide bar touches an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.

Tip contact in some cases may cause a lightning fast reverse REACTION, Kicking the guide bar up and back towards the operator. Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards the operator. Either of these reactions may cause you to lose control of the saw which could result in serious personal injury.

The Kick Guard ® device is not installed on the guide bar when you purchase your ECHO chain saw. The Kick Guard

®can be used in a majority of cutting operations, and is especially recommended for beginners, homeowners, or chain saw novices. Most cutting operations can be ac- complished with the Kick Guard® in place.

Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your saw. As a chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or in- jury.

1.With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents.

2. Keep a good firm grip on the saw with both hands, the right hand on the rear handle, and the left hand on the front handle, when the engine is running. Use a firm grip with thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles. A firm grip will help you reduce kickback and maintain control of the saw. Don’t’ let go.

3.Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, or any other obstruction which could be hit while you are operating the saw.

4.Cut at high engine speeds.

5.Do not overreach or cut above shoulder height.

6.Follow manufacturer’s sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain.

7.Only use replacement bars and chains, or the equiva- lent, specified by the manufacturer.

B. Other Safety Precautions

1.Do not operate a chain saw with one hand! Serious injury to the operator, helpers, bystanders, or any com- bination of these persons may result from one-handed operation. A chain saw is intended for two-handed use.

2.Do not operate a chain saw when you are fatigued.

3.Use safety footwear; snug-fitting clothing; protective gloves; and eye, hearing and head protection devices. Keep long hair away from engine and air intake. Retain hair with cap or net.

4.Use caution when handling fuel. Move the chain saw at least 3 m (10 feet) from the fueling point before starting the engine.

5.Do not allow other persons to be near the chain saw when starting or cutting with the chain saw. Keep by- standers and animals out of the work area.

6.Do not start cutting until you have a clear work area, secure footing, and a planned retreat path from the falling tree.

7.Keep all parts of your body away from the saw chain when the engine is running.

8.Before you start the engine, make sure that the saw chain is not contacting anything.

9.Carry the chain saw with the engine stopped, the guide bar and saw chain to the rear, and the muffler away from your body.

10.Do not operate a chain saw that is damaged, improperly adjusted, or not completely and securely assembled. Be sure that the saw chain stops moving when the throttle control trigger is released.

11.Shut off the engine before setting the chain saw down.

12.Use extreme caution when cutting small size brush and saplings because slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off balance.

13.When cutting a limb that is under tension, be alert for spring back so that you will not be struck when the tension in the wood fibers is released.

CS-360T, CS-330T specifications

The Echo CS-330T and CS-360T are two impressive chainsaws designed for both professionals and avid DIY enthusiasts. Known for their durability, ease of use, and powerful performance, these models are perfect for tackling various cutting tasks in gardens, forests, and construction sites alike.

The Echo CS-330T features a 30.5cc professional-grade, 2-stroke engine that delivers a powerful performance while ensuring efficiency. This lightweight engine design allows for easy handling and reduces user fatigue during extended use. The CS-330T also boasts a 12-inch bar, making it an ideal tool for pruning, trimming, and safely felling smaller trees with precision.

On the other hand, the CS-360T is equipped with a more powerful 35.8cc engine, providing an even higher performance level for more demanding tasks. The CS-360T's 14-inch bar is perfectly suited for medium-sized trees and larger cutting jobs. Both saws feature a powerful fuel delivery system that ensures quick starts, allowing users to get to work faster and more efficiently.

One notable characteristic of the Echo chainsaws is their innovative Accu-Fire ignition system. This technology enhances starting ease and provides a reliable spark, minimizing the chances of stalling during operation. Additionally, the saws are designed with an automatic oiler, which ensures the chain remains lubricated for smoother cutting and increased longevity.

Weighing in at just 8.6 lbs for the CS-330T and 9.5 lbs for the CS-360T, both models offer a balance of lightness and power, making them highly maneuverable on the job. The ergonomic handle design contributes to user comfort, while the adjustable throttle trigger allows for better control over cutting speed, adapting seamlessly to various tasks.

For safety, the Echo CS-330T and CS-360T are equipped with critical features such as a chain brake that instantly halts the chain in emergencies, reducing the risks associated with accident-prone cutting tasks. The ease of maintenance is also a key advantage, with tool-less chain tensioning for quick adjustments.

In conclusion, the Echo CS-330T and CS-360T chainsaws combine lightweight power, advanced technology, and essential safety features, making them perfect for a wide range of cutting applications. Whether you're a professional or a hobbyist, these chainsaws offer the reliability and performance needed for effective and efficient work.