Kickback And Other Reactive Forces; Reactive Forces; Kickback - Stihl MSA 161 T Instruction Manual

6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces

– Before starting a cut, ensure that it can be completed
without contacting surrounding objects or structures
such as fencing or stonework.
￭ Check the chain and guide bar at regular short intervals
during operation, or immediately if there is a change in
cutting behavior:
– Switch off the motor, activate the chain brake and
remove the battery.
– Check the condition and tension of the chain. Look
for damage to the chain or guide bar.
– If the chain cannot be properly tensioned, or if other
components of the saw are worn or damaged, stop
work immediately and take your chain saw to an
authorized STIHL servicing dealer for inspection,
repair or maintenance.
DANGER
￭ To reduce the risk of electrocution:
– Never operate this chain saw in the
vicinity of any wires or cables that may
be carrying electric current.
– Never cut near power lines.
– Do not rely on the chain saw's insulation
against electric shock.
6 Kickback and Other Reactive Forces
6.1

Reactive Forces

WARNING
￭ Reactive forces may occur any time the chain is rotating.
Reactive forces can cause serious or fatal personal injury.
0458-791-8221-C
￭ The powerful forces used to cut wood can be reversed and
work against the operator. If the rotating saw chain is
suddenly and significantly slowed or stopped by contact
with any solid object such as a log or branch or is pinched,
the reactive forces may occur instantly.
￭ These reactive forces may result in loss of control, which,
in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
– An understanding of the causes of these reactive
forces may help you avoid the element of surprise
and loss of control. Surprise contributes to
accidents.
The most common reactive forces are:

– Kickback

– Pull-in
– Pushback
6.2 Kickback
6.2.1 Kickback
WARNING
Kickback may occur when the moving chain near
the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a
solid object or is pinched.
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