Chainsaws

Chainsaws are used in land clearing, storm cleanup, tree work and demolition. Kickback, falling limbs and trees, and contact with the moving chain cause severe injuries.

• Construction
• Landscaping
• Utilities

PPE

• Hard hat (with face screen and earmuffs, or separate safety glasses and hearing protection)
• Chainsaw chaps or cut-resistant pants
• Heavy work gloves
• Sturdy boots; cut-resistant boots are best

Before starting

• Chain sharp, tensioned correctly, and lubricated
• Chain brake, chain catcher, throttle lockout and stop switch working
• Chain does not move when the engine idles
• Start the saw on the ground or firmly supported, at least 10 feet from where you fueled it, with the chain brake on. No drop-starting.

Kickback

Kickback happens when the upper tip of the bar (the “kickback zone”) touches something or the chain pinches. The bar flies up and back toward your face. To prevent it:

• Hold the saw firmly with both hands, thumb wrapped around the front handle.
• Don’t cut with the bar tip. Use a reduced-kickback chain and bar.
• Cut at full throttle, and watch for wood that can pinch the bar.
• Keep the saw below shoulder height.
• Stand to the side of the saw’s path.

Other rules

• Don’t fell trees unless you’re trained. Plan the fall and two escape routes.
• Don’t cut spring poles or trees under tension (storm damage) unless trained. They can release violently.
• Don’t refuel a hot saw or smoke while fueling.
• Don’t carry a running saw. Engage the chain brake when moving more than two steps.
• Don’t work alone.

Last updated: October 1, 2026