Echo DCS-2500T Operator's Manual page 11

2. One-hand use of the chain-saw
Operators should not use tree service chain-saws one-
handed when work position is unstable or in preference to a
handsaw when cutting small diameter wood at the branch
tips.
Tree service chain-saws should only be used one-handed
where
 operators cannot gain a work position enabling two-handed
use, and
 they need to support their working position with one hand,
and
 the saw is being used at full stretch, at right angles to and
out of line with the operator's body.
Example of one-handed chain-saw use
Operators should never
 cut with the kickback zone at the tip of the chain-saw guide
bar,
 "hold and cut" sections, or
 attempt to catch falling sections.
Chain saw safety warnings
 Keep all parts of the body away from the saw chain
when the chain saw is operating. Before you start the
chain saw, make sure the saw chain is not contacting
anything.
 A moment of inattention while operating chain saws may
cause entanglement of your clothing or body with the saw
chain.
 Always hold the chain saw with your right hand on the
rear handle and your left hand on the front handle.
 Holding the chain saw with a reversed hand configuration in-
creases the risk of personal injury and should never be
done.
 Hold the power tool by insulated gripping surfaces only,
because the saw chain may contact hidden wiring or its
own cord.
 Saw chains contacting a "live" wire may make exposed met-
al parts of the power tool "live" and could give the operator
an electric shock.
 Wear safety glasses and hearing protection. Further
protective equipment for head, hands, legs and feet is
recommended.
 Adequate protective clothing will reduce personal injury by
flying debris or accidental contact with the saw chain.
 Do not operate a chain saw in a tree.
 Operation of a chain saw while up in a tree may result in per-
sonal injury.
For safe use of your product
WARNING
3. Freeing a trapped saw
It the saw become trapped during cutting, operators should
 switch off the saw and attach it securely to the tree inboard
(i.e. towards the trunk side) of the cut or to a separate tool
line,
 pull the saw from the kerf whilst lifting the branch as neces-
sary,
 if necessary, use a handsaw or second chain saw to release
the trapped saw by cutting a minimum of 30 cm away from
the trapped saw.
Whether a handsaw or a chain-saw is used to free a trapped
saw, the release cuts should always be outboard (toward the
tips of the branch), in order to prevent the saw being taken
with the section and further complicating the situation.
WARNING
 Always keep proper footing and operate the chain saw
only when standing on fixed, secure and level surface.
 Slippery or unstable surfaces such as ladders may cause a
loss of balance or control of the chain saw.
 When cutting a limb that is under tension be alert for
spring back.
 When the tension in the wood fibres is released the spring
loaded limb may strike the operator and/or throw the chain
saw out of control.
 Use extreme caution when cutting brush and saplings.
 The slender material may catch the saw chain and be
whipped toward you or pull you off balance.
 Carry the chain saw by the front handle with the chain
saw switched off and away from your body. When trans-
porting or storing the chain saw always fit the guide bar
cover.
 Proper handling of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood
of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
 Follow instructions for lubricating, chain tensioning
and changing accessories.
 Improperly tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or
increase the chance for kickback.
 Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease.
 Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing loss of control.
 Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for purposes not
intended. For example: do not use chain saw for cutting
plastic, masonry or non-wood building materials.
 Use of the chain saw for operations different than intended
could result in a hazardous situation.
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