Tree work requiring the use of a chainsaw should only be carried out by a trained and competent climber who has experience in chainsaw use, or by a trainee under supervision who is competent using a chainsaw on the ground. AFAG recommends Type C leg protection for aerial work, because of the high allround chainsaw cut protection. The machine Only use a chainsaw if: the stop switch works and is clearly marked; the front hand guard/chain brake, chain catcher and anti-vibration mounts are undamaged and functional; the throttle opens only when the throttle lock is depressed; it is fitted with a reduced kickback chain; the exhaust system and silencer are in good order; there is a means for attaching a suitably rated or tear-away lanyard to the rear of the saw; there is a mandatory hearing protection symbol on the saw. Agree a safe method of operation for the work to make sure that a safe working distance can be maintained between workers and between workers and machinery. Check the following before starting work and periodically throughout the day: Are all external nuts, screws and fastenings secure? Is the chain tension correct? Is the on-off switch effective? Is the chain brake effective? Is the chain stationary when the saw is idling without the chain brake applied? Is the chain oiling system working? Starting the saw Maintain a safe working distance from other people at all times. Before passing the saw up to the climber, ground staff should check the following functions: Is oil delivery to the chain okay? Is the chain brake working? Is the chain stationary when idle? Does the saw continue to run in its full range of working positions? Is the on/off switch working? Is the chain tension okay? To hold the saw for a cold start, place the saw on the ground with the left hand on the front handle and right knee on the rear of the control handle. Htm Mobile elevating work platforms for tree work Leaflet AFAG403(rev1) HSE Books 2013 www.
His instructor told him that it’s illegal for anyone to use a top handle chainsaw on the ground and for example, said that if I do I can be fined heavily. I’ve found myself using the top handle alot for small jobs – I guess I’ll have to decide for myself how much of an increased risk I’m taking, and whether it’s worth investing in a small/lightweight rear handle saw. If accidents with top handle saws would be so catastrophic as UK authorities want to project it, we would run out of chainsaw operators very soon…. Last edited: Oct 19, 2010.
To make sure you are ready for your course, our experts have some tips on what to bring and what you need. The first thing is to have your own chainsaw ready and to make sure you have adequate personal protective equipment, or PPE. You need to be able to lift the chainsaw and cut through lumber and such with minimal difficulty, which means a certain level of fitness is required. Other physical requirements will vary depending on the courses you take.
top handle chainsaw uk law Related Question:
Is it illegal to use a top handle chainsaw on the ground?
Top-handled chainsaws are only suitable for use off the ground. Operators must use rear-handled saws when working on the ground.
Can anyone use a top handle chainsaw?
Top-handled chainsaws are suitable for professional, full time use. They’re designed for working in trees by trained arborists. Appropriate certification of competence must be provided before any top-handled chainsaw can be purchased or used.
When should you use a top handle on a chainsaw?
2. This means that workers can use the top handle chainsaw for pruning work when standing on the ground if it will ensure a higher quality pruning cut or is considered safer than using a rear handle saw. No top handle saw shall be used for any other cutting work on the ground.
Do you need a license for a chainsaw UK?
Chainsaw License in the UK In the UK, you do not need a chainsaw license if you are not a professional operator. In other words, most people can operate a chainsaw without a license. However, you must still prove that you are adequately trained by going through a course.
Can you use a top handle chainsaw one-handed?
Top-handled chainsaws should not be used one-handed either in place of poor work positioning or in preference to a handsaw whilst cutting smaller material at branch tips.
What chainsaw do arborists use?
STIHL chain saws are also the first choice for professional arborists. In combination with STIHL cutting attachments, these powerful lightweights with extra high full-throttle rotational speed impress with their exceptional cutting performance and clean cutting surfaces.
Can you use a chainsaw one handed?
One-handed use can result in the operator having less control over the chainsaw. In one-handed use the saw may skate, bounce or kick back on contact with the material being cut, or may come into contact with the operator’s free hand/arm if used incorrectly.
What is a CS39 certificate?
Course Overview The course covers specialist cutting techniques for using saws up trees. CS39 is accepted by the HSE as evidence of suitable training and competence for professional arborist who operate chainsaws and perform aerial tree-work operations.
What is the smallest Echo chainsaw?
The X Series ECHO chainsaw CS-2511T 12 in. is the lightest gas powered chainsaw in North America. The 25.0 cc professional-grade engine delivers incredible horse power from a compact, easily maneuverable body.
Can I use a chainsaw in my garden?
So, a chainsaw can also help you to reshape your garden surroundings. This can be the most attractive and simplest of all garden decorations. Make the best use of the log by trimming them into measured pieces.
Do you have to be qualified to use a chainsaw?
By law, chainsaw operators must have received adequate training relevant to the type of work they undertake. They are also required to wear appropriate chainsaw protective clothing whenever they use a chainsaw.
What age can you use a chainsaw UK?
Chainsaws should not be operated by anyone under minimum school leaving age (MSLA), which is on, or near the age of 16 years, depending on when the last day of the school year falls.
Do arborists use electric chainsaws?
Arborist chainsaws fall under three different power sources: battery-operated, electric, and gas. Due to this, you should consider the power source that is ideal to you since each source has strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a look at each of the three types of chainsaws.
What is a pruning saw?
Definition of pruning saw : a saw that has a usually tapering straight or curved blade and either a closed or an open and sometimes folding handhold and that may or may not be attached to a pole.
Can a chainsaw cut through bone?
Bones may be slightly tougher, but they are rigid and a chainsaw will likely be able to cut through them without much problem – though it will probably dull the blade more than wood.