Stihl MSA 161 T Instruction Manual page 18

English
– Never attempt to operate the chain saw
with one hand.
– Even for those compact chain saws
designed for use in confined spaces,
one-handed operation increases the risk
that the operator may lose control.
– Position the chain saw in such a way that your body
is clear of the cutting attachment whenever the saw
is in operation. Position yourself to the left of the cut
while bucking.
– Never work in a tree unless you have received
specific, professional training for such work, are
properly secured (such as tack and harness system
or a lift bucket), have both hands free for operating
the chain saw in a cramped environment and have
taken proper precautions to avoid injury from falling
limbs or branches.
– The use of climbing aids such as spikes or climbing
irons also requires special training. Always secure
the chain saw with a rope (tie to hinged ring) and
attach it to a lifeline. Cordon off the work area in
order to reduce the risk of injuries and damage to
bystanders or property (e.g., motor vehicles) from
falling branches.
￭ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the
operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper
footing and balance at all times:
– Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and
always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree
stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid
stumbling.
– Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or
uneven ground.
– For better footing, always clear away fallen
branches, scrub and cuttings. Freshly debarked logs
and other material can increase the danger of
slipping, tripping or falling.
16
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
– Use extreme caution when cutting small-size brush,
branches and saplings because slender material
may catch the chain and spring toward you or pull
you off balance.
￭ To reduce the risk of falling:
– Keep rotating chain saw well clear of harness and
lifelines to avoid them being severed. It is essential
to use a double lifeline.
– Check condition of harness, belts and ropes at
regular frequent intervals.
– Always pull the saw out of the cut with the chain
running.
– After finishing a cut, activate the chain brake to lock
the chain and switch off the saw before moving the
saw to another position in the tree.
￭ To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control:
– Never work on a ladder, roof or while
standing on any other insecure support.
– Never operate the chain saw above
shoulder height.
– Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times.
– Never switch on the chain saw when the guide bar is
in a cut or kerf. Doing so could lead to reactive forces
and injury. Instead, remove the guide bar from the
cut and re-enter at full speed, taking care to avoid
contacting any object with the tip of the guide bar.
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