Causes and operator prevention of kickback
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 sudden 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 chainsaw which could result in serious personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into your chainsaw. As a chainsaw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury.
Kickback is the result of tool misuse and / or incorrect operating procedures or conditions and can be avoided by taking proper precautions as given below:
Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and fingers encircling the chainsaw handles. With both hands on the chainsaw, position your body and arm to allow you to resist kickback forces. Kickback forces can be controlled by the operator, if proper precautions are taken. Do not let go of the chainsaw.
Do not overreach and do not cut above shoulder height. This helps prevent unintended tip contact and enables better control of the chainsaw in unexpected situations.
Only use replacement guide bars and chains specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect replacement guide bars and chains may cause chain breakage and/or kickback.
Follow the manufacturer's sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height can lead to increased kickback.
Safety recommendations for the chainsaw
We strongly recommend that first time users obtain practical instruction in the use of the chainsaw and protective equipment from an experienced user. Initial practice should be completed sawing logs on a saw horse or cradle.
We recommend that when carrying the chainsaw that you make sure that the brake is engaged
Maintain your chainsaw when not in use. Do not store your chainsaw for any length of time without first removing the saw chain and guide bar which should be kept immersed in oil. Store all parts of your chainsaw in a dry, secure place out of reach of children.
We recommend you drain the oil reservoir prior to storage.
Be sure of your footing and
Use wedges to help control felling and prevent binding the guide bar and saw chain in the cut.
Saw chain care. Keep the saw chain sharp and snug on the guide bar. Ensure the saw chain and guide bar are clean and well oiled. Keep handles dry, clean and free from oil and grease.
Kickback can be caused by:
Striking branches or other objects accidentally with a tip of the saw while the saw chain is moving.
Striking metal, cement or any other hard material near the wood, or buried in the wood.
A dull or loose chain.
Cutting above shoulder height.
Lack of attention when holding or guiding the chainsaw while cutting.
Do not try to insert into a previous cut. As this could cause kickback. Make a fresh cut every time.
We strongly recommend you do not attempt to operate your chainsaw while in a tree, on a ladder or on any other unstable surface. If you decide to do so, be advised that these positions are extremely dangerous.
When cutting a branch that is under tension, be alert for spring back so that you will not be struck when the tension is released.
Avoid cutting:
Prepared timber.
Into the ground.
Into wire fences, nails. etc.
Into small sized brush and saplings because slender material may catch the saw chain and be whipped towards you, or pull you off balance.
Do not use your chainsaw above shoulder height.
Ensure someone is nearby (but at a safe distance) in case of an accident.
If for any reason you have to touch the saw chain, make sure your chainsaw is disconnected from the mains.
The noise from this product can exceed 80 dB(A). We therefore recommend you take appropriate measures for the protection of hearing.
Safety of others
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for the their safety.
Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
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