Chainsaw Operation

Course Description

This course is for those who have need for more experience with a chainsaw, and  would like to take their knowledge, skills, and competency to the next level. Through theory and practical testing, you will prove they you can handle chainsaws safely and in a working environment. There are pre-requisites for taking this course, including Chainsaw Rules, so please check beforehand if you are eligible to join. 

Topics

• Chainsaw safety procedures; on/off switch, htrottle lockout, chain brake, rear hand-guard, spark arrester/muffler, anti-vibration mounts, chain cathcer, mitt
• Chainsaw manufacturers recommendations
• Chainsaw starter cover, top cover, air filter, side cover, bar and chain removal
• Chainsaw components; starter mechanism, tension lead, spark plug, cooling fins, choke, throttle control, side cover, drive sprocket, chain tension, adjuster, clutch, guide bar, oil flow adjuster, depth gauge, cutter
• Chainsaw reassembly
• Chainsaw operation hazards; cutting action of chain, exhaust heat, exhaust fumes, noise, operator fatigue, working alone, operator dehydration
• Reactive forces; traction, recoil
• Chain maintenance requirements
• Poor chainsaw maintenance consequences; cutting, maintenance, operator health, operator safety
• Kickback and causes
• Control of kickback; grip, left thumb, body position, bar nose location re-entering cuts, reach
• Tension wood, compression wood
• PPE prescribed; leg, head, foot, hearing, eye, high visibility clothing
• First aid requirements; kit, dressings
• Chainsaw fuelling
• Pre-start checks; fuel and oil, cutting unit, security of external fittings, condition of safety features
• Motor sizes and bar length requirements for work
• Safe chainsaw carrying methods; left site of body, bar pointing to rear, saw able to be thrown clear in a fall
• Starting location, starting methods
• Holding chainsaw; left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle, fingers and thumbs encircling the handles
• Operating condition checks; even idle, without chain movement, chain lubrication system is working, chain brake tested
• Stabilising material
• Stabilise footing; not overreaching, held to close to the body, out of kickback zone, braced against reactive forces, standing in safe position
• Planning and carrying out cuts; up cuts, down cuts, bore cuts
• Compression wood and tension wood identified and cut
• Stopping chainsaw and safe placement

Learn how to operate a chainsaw effectively and safely

What you'll learn

At the end of the course, students will haven proven they can assemble, maintain, and operate chainsaws to a professional standard, and are competent enough to use chainsaws in accord with the Dept of Labour’s “best practice” guide for operation of a chainsaw. Health & Safety is the primary focus, with attention on first aid, positioning, and cutting techniques.

What you'll be able to do with this training 

Any person who uses chainsaws should have completed this course, for the safety of themselves and others. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the standard industry rules for chainsaw use, as well as safety procedures, operation hazards, chainsaw components, and what to do in an emergency.

Prerequisites

Please note that completion of the following programme  are a prerequisite to this course:

• - Workplace/Home Health and Safety 
•  - Provide Life Support 
• Provide First Aid 
• Chainsaw Rules