This year’s STIHL Chainsaw Safety Awareness Week is coming up on May 23 with a strong but simple message for Kiwis – taking five minutes to get ready before you start your DIY adventure is essential to your safety.
The Chainsaw Safety Awareness Week targets the occasional chainsaw user who starts up their machinery every now and then, but may not give proper consideration to keeping themselves safe.
Chainsaw Safety Tips
Check that your protective clothing is complete and fitting properly. Your clothing should be snug fitting, with no loose elements getting in your way.
- Wear trousers with a reinforced cut-retardant layer or front leg protection.
- Wear protective cut-retardant footwear with non-slip soles and steel toecaps.
- Wear heavy-duty non-slip gloves, preferably in leather.
- Don’t forget to wear proper head, face, and eye protection as well as sound barriers (ear plugs or mufflers).
Tick the boxes
Visit your local STIHL Specialist Retailer to view their extensive range of Essential Protective Wear.
Before you start up, check:
- that all parts are intact and secure
- the chain is the right tension
- the chain cutters are sharp
- the depth gauge settings are correct
- all safety devices are in place and working
- that there are no loose bolts, screws nuts or covers
If anything’s missing or damaged, don’t use the chainsaw. This is especially important if you weren’t the last person to use it.
Check your work area
- Make sure your work area is free of tripping hazards and electrical cables. Also keep an eye out for anyone who could enter your work area and check to make sure nothing is going to fall on you while you are working (like treetops, etc). Don’t forget to watch out for the weather – some conditions could make your work area hazardous.
Hold and use the chainsaw correctly
- Keep two hands on the saw and hold it close to your body, with the body of the saw close to what you’re cutting. Plant your feet firmly and slightly apart for balance. Never try to adjust your chain or machine while the engine is running.
Maintain your chainsaw
- Good maintenance will extend the chainsaw’s life and ensure its safe to use. When you finish a job make sure the air filters, sprocket cover and chain brake mechanism are free from sawdust; clean the guide bar groove; oil the holes and check everything is in place.
STIHL Chainsaw Safety Awareness Week from May 23-31 is to raise awareness about taking the correct approach to using a chainsaw, including wearing a safety gear.
We’ll be giving away STIHL’s Chainsaw Safety pack including one petrol run Chainsaw (MS 162, 12”) plus one Protective chaps, glasses, and earmuffs, valued at $627.50. To enter click here.
