Chainsaw Safety Protects Equipment And The Operator
When used properly and with all safety and protective gear in place, a chainsaw can be a welcome addition to any homeowner's woodshed. However, chainsaw safety is not always considered by many users, typically ending in dire consequences. In addition to some of the chainsaw safety features designed into the equipment, there are personal protection equipment that can also help prevent injuries to the users as they work their way through the wood pile around their home.
From tips guards to anti-kickback chains, chainsaw safety is high on the list of manufacturer's concerns and all saws are sold complete with instructions on how to reduce the odds of injury while using a chainsaw. However, not all users of chainsaws utilize the most important part of chainsaw safety, and that is common sense. Too many times, injuries occur because the user either does not take the time to operate it in a safe manner or has developed a familiarity with the equipment and forget about potential consequences.
There are also those who shun the use of such equipment as chainsaw safety goggles to protect their eyes from flying debris. When using a chainsaw it is common for sawdust to blow around and sometimes the bark of a tree can come loose, sending bits and pieces of wood into the air and eyes of the unprotected user.
When Using Chainsaw Clothing Is Not Optional
There are certain articles of clothing that play a role in chainsaw safety including boots, hats, gloves and chainsaw safety chaps. Like the chaps worn by horse riders to protect their legs from the rigors of riding, the chaps can also protect the chainsaw user from inadvertent cuts from an errant saw.
While many chainsaw users will only use their saws to cut a cord or two of wood each year, they often forget about the need to practice chainsaw safety and often feel too familiar with the saw's use to include safety measures. Too often it is the occasional users that suffer from accidents due to their mishandling of equipment with which they are not familiar, but believe they have under control.
Having the right footing when cutting into a tree, or even a log on the ground can insure that if the saw kicks back the user is not thrown off balance and placed in danger of the spinning blade. Users should refresh their knowledge of chainsaw safety tips at least once a year, especially if they do not use their saw on a regular basis.
