1. Bob Schultheis Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
Chain Saw Safety by
Bob Schultheis Natural Resource Engineering Specialist

2. Saw Selection - Electric
Needs nearby electric power; no fuel
Starts instantly; runs quietly
Indoor or outdoor use
Limited to 14" bar length
Potential shock hazard

3. Saw Selection - Gasoline
Usable anywhere with gas:oil fuel mix
Many engine & bar length choices
Noisy and smoky
Outdoor use only
Potential fire & burn hazard

4. Match Saw Bar Length to Job
8"-12" = light use, limbing, felling very small trees
12"-20" = frequent use, felling/cutting small trees
Over 20" = heavy use by professionals

5. Personal Preparation (Safety Gear)
Clothing - well-fitted, consider nylon mesh
Hard hat
Safety goggles or shielded safety glasses
Ear muffs or ear plugs dB reduction
Leather gloves
Safety boots or high-top leather shoes

6. Chain Saw = 120 dB Sound Level
Duration (hours/day)
Sound Level (dBA) 8 90 4 95 2
100 1
105
1/2
110
1/4 or less
115
Source: OSHA Noise Standard

7. Saw Preparation Sharpen chain if....
it "walks" sideways under power
produces fine powder instead of chips
must press hard to improve cutting
Tension chain to avoid binding/derailing
1/32" chain gap if cold
1/8" chain gap if hot
Regular chain lubrication extends life

8. Chain Saw Safety Features
Chain brake
Anti-kickback chain
Safety tip on bar end
Vibration-reduction bushings
Automatic chain oiling
Trigger or throttle lockout

9. Chain Saw Operating Techniques 1
Refuel engine only when cool
Brace firmly on ground to start; NO drop-starting
"Read" the tree before felling
Pre-plan unobstructed escape path at 45° retreat angle
Shut off and leave saw before retreating

10. Chain Saw Operating Techniques 2
Don't saw above shoulder height
"Look beyond" limb you cut for kickback hazards
Check log "support points" before cutting
Read the owner's manual

11. Questions ?? Robert A. (Bob) Schultheis
Natural Resource Engineering Specialist
Webster County Extension Center
800 S. Marshall, P.O. Box 7
Marshfield, MO
Voice:
Fax:
Web: outreach.missouri.edu/webster