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English – 15
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
How to avoid kickback
What is kickback?
The word kickback is used to describe the sudden reaction
that causes the chain saw and bar to jump off an object when
the upper quadrant of the tip of the bar, known as the kickback
zone, touches an object.
Kickback always occurs in the cutting plane of the bar.
Normally the chain saw and bar are thrown backwards and
upwards towards the user. However, the chain saw may move
in a different direction depending on the way it was being used
when the kickback zone of the bar touched the object.
Kickback only occurs if the kickback zone of the bar touches
an object.
General rules
1 If you understand what kickback is and how it happens
then you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise.
By being prepared you reduce the risk. Kickback is usually
quite mild, but it can sometimes be very sudden and
violent.
2 Always hold the chain saw firmly with your right hand on
the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle.
Wrap your fingers and thumbs around the handles. You
should use this grip whether you are right-handed or left-
handed. This grip minimises the effect of kickback and lets
you keep the chain saw under control.
Do not let go of the handles!
3 Most kickback accidents happen during limbing. Make
sure you are standing firmly and that there is nothing in
the way that might make you trip or lose your balance.
Lack of concentration can lead to kickback if the kickback
zone of the bar accidentally touches a branch, nearby tree
or some other object.
4 Never use the chain saw above shoulder height and try
not to cut with the tip of the bar. Never use the chain saw
one-handed!
5 You must have a steady stance in order to have full control
over the chain saw. Never work standing on a ladder, in a
tree or where you do not have firm ground to stand on.
6 Always use a fast cutting speed, i.e. full throttle.
7 Take great care when you cut with the top edge of the bar,
i.e. when cutting from the underside of the object. This is
known as cutting on the push stroke. The chain tries to
push the chain saw back towards the user.
Unless the user resists this pushing force there is a risk
that the chain saw will move so far backwards that only the
kickback zone of the bar is in contact with the tree, which
will lead to a kickback.
!
WARNING! Kickback can happen very
suddenly and violently; kicking the chain
saw, bar and chain back at the user. If this
happens when the chain is moving it can
cause very serious, even fatal injuries. It is
vital you understand what causes kickback
and that you can avoid it by taking care and
using the right working technique.