Chain saw safety handling and best practices

Chain saw training and skill development are often overlooked and underappreciated because almost anyone can manage to get a chain saw started. Proper starting procedure is vital in getting off to the right start.

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Good communication is key to keeping the jobsite safe, avoiding accidents and making the job profitable. Tree work is a team effort; one person can’t do the job alone.

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When felling trees, it is vital to have and use a felling plan. The five-step felling plan incorporates up-to-date cutting methods, is widely used by professional chainsaw operators worldwide and has recently been adopted into the ANSI Z-133.1 Standard for tree-care operations. Using the five-step felling plan will help you to achieve successful results consistently.

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Creating a safety plan does not mean that the job will take longer. Ken Palmer, president of ArborMaster, a Connecticut-based firm that specializes in training for the tree care industry, knows this for a fact.

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Working in the tree-care industry has the potential to be very dangerous. Safety and productivity can work hand in hand, but it does take a commitment. Learn how to find the balance.

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