Filter
Top Products
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!
!
WARNING! Most chain saw accidents
happen when the chain touches the
operator.
Wear personal protective equipment. See
instructions under the heading Personal
protective equipment.
Do not tackle any job that you feel you are
not adequately trained for. See instructions
under the headings Personal protective
equipment, How to avoid kickback, Cutting
equipment and General working
instructions.
Avoid situations where there is a risk of
kickback. See instructions under the
heading Machine′s safety equipment.
Use the recommended protective equipment
and check its condition. See instructions
under the heading General working
instructions.
Check that all the chain saw safety features
are working. See instructions under the
headings General working instructions and
General safety precautions.
!
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.