Chain Saw Basics; Hazard Prevention - Greenlee Fairmont HCS5130CB Operation Manual

Chain Saw Basics

This section introduces some basic principles of chain
saw use (Hazard Prevention, Compression and Tension,
and Cutting Techniques). For more information on
proper tree-trimming and felling procedures, contact
the National Arborist Association at the address shown
under Safety at the front of this manual.
Note: Maintain proper footing and balance while using
this tool. Do not over-reach. Unsuitable footing and
balance may not allow counteracting normal or
unexpected movement of the tool.

HAZARD PREVENTION

The cutting action of this chain saw is performed by a
chain-type blade driven at high speed by a powerful
hydraulic motor. When used carefully and properly, the
chain saw is a highly effective cutting tool.
When used improperly, or when anything interferes with
the normal rotation of the blade, the operator could
very suddenly and very quickly lose control of the saw.
Such loss of control can result in harm to the operator.
The three terms that describe loss of control are pull-in,
push-back, and kickback.
Pull-In
Pull-in can occur when the blade at the bottom of the
bar is doing the cutting. If the blade is suddenly pinched
in the cut, or if it contacts a foreign object such as a
nail, the saw may be suddenly and forcefully pulled
away from the operator.
Figure 1 Pull-In
Push-Back
Push-back can occur when the blade at the top of the
bar is doing the cutting. If the blade is suddenly pinched
in the cut, or if it contacts a foreign object such as a
nail, the saw will be suddenly and forcefully pushed
back toward the operator.
Figure 2 Push-Back
Greenlee / A Textron Company
PULL
PUSH
Chain Saws with Chain Brake
Kickback
Kickback is much more hazardous than pull-in or
push-back. When kickback happens, the entire saw
may rotate suddenly and forcefully. The bar of the
saw may quickly travel upward and back, toward the
operator.
Kickback can occur when the blade at the guide bar
tip contacts anything while the chain is rotating. Some
causes for kickback are:
• using the guide bar tip for cutting.
• contacting a metal object when cutting.
• accidental contact when cutting more than one
branch at a time.
Figure 3 Using Guide Bar Tip for Cutting
Figure 4 Contact with Metal Objects
Figure 5 Cutting More Than One Branch at a Time
7
4455 Boeing Dr. • Rockford, IL 61109-2988 USA • 815-397-7070
Metal
Objects