SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
How to avoid kickback
WARNING! Kickback can happen very
!suddenly and violently; kicking the chain saw, bar and chain back at the user. If this happens when the chain is moving it can 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.
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.
Kickback only occurs if the kickback zone of the bar touches an object.
General rules
1If 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.
2Always hold the chain saw firmly with your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle. Wrap your fingers and thumbs around the handles. You should use this grip whether you are
Do not let go of the handles!
3Most kickback accidents happen during limbing. Make sure you are standing firmly and that there is nothing in the way that might make you trip or lose your balance.
Lack of concentration can lead to kickback if the kickback zone of the bar accidentally touches a branch, nearby tree or some other object.
4Never use the chain saw above shoulder height and try not to cut with the tip of the bar. Never use the chain saw
5In order to keep control of your saw, always maintain a firm foothold. Never work on a ladder, in a tree or on any other insecure support.
6Always use a fast cutting speed, i.e. full throttle.
7Take great care when you cut with the top edge of the bar, i.e. when cutting from the underside of the object. This is known as cutting on the push stroke. The chain tries to push the chain saw back towards the user.
8Unless the user resists this pushing force there is a risk that the chain saw will move so far backwards that only the kickback zone of the bar is in contact with the tree, which will lead to a kickback.
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