Chainsaws

[ztrguy]

How dangerous are chainsaws? Does it depend on how big the log you are cutting? I would think the smaller 6" diameter wouldn't be that dangerous to cut or is it just as bad? Never done much cutting and I figure there are plenty of experts out there that use chainsaws more often. I cut little limbs very seldom, but nothing ever very big. Any thoughts?

[Potchkins]

look for a Chain Saw Safety video

[PSDF350]

How dangerous are chainsaws? Does it depend on how big the log you are cutting? I would think the smaller 6" diameter wouldn't be that dangerous to cut or is it just as bad? Never done much cutting and I figure there are plenty of experts out there that use chainsaws more often. I cut little limbs very seldom, but nothing ever very big. Any thoughts?
Extremly dangerous. If you dont know anything about them take a game of logging course.

[ztrguy]

Is there one that's more dangerous than the other? For example is a more powerful chainsaw more likely to kick back on you? or vice versa?

[saw man]

no
Depends more on the chain and what part of the bar/chain goes into the wood first.

[PSDF350]

Always remember the top front of tip is the kickback zone.

[PowersTree]

Stay away from Tophandle saws!! These are designed for arborists and just because they are smaller doesnt mean they are safer. Get a video!! Any time the saw is running your life could be in danger!! Go to Arboristsite and check out the accident and fatality forum.

[newz7151]

A chainsaw is only as dangerous as the person running it is stupid or uninformed on it's proper operation.

[lawnpro724]

If your not sure how to use chainsaw safely, have a friend or someone you know who uses one on regular basis show you the basics. A chainsaw is one tool you don't want to mess around with so if your not sure how to use it leave it alone.

[ztrguy]

Sounds like I need to let me workers go through training before we start doing any chainsaw work. Thanks guys for giving me a heads up on this. I thought if we were careful it would be ok, but obviously there's more to it then that. We will look into the proper training for this before we do any work. I want my workers to be safe, that's my main concern. It's not worth the money if we can't be safe doing it.

What about power pole saws? I found a few that will cut up to 8" diameter. We won't be cutting anything over 6" in diameter. The pole is pretty short when not extended...looks like it would work. We are mainly just cutting up the longer limbs that have fell on the ground in order to fit them in our trailer. Would this be safer and easier to do? From what I can tell they need lots of help. I don't plan on cutting a lot, but just a little bit in order to fit it in a trailer.

[txgrassguy]

One poster correctly mentioned the type of chain as defining the degree of hazard. There exists certain chain designs to minimize recoil of the bar, however, these safety chains cut neither as well nor as fast as a professional style chain.
I wouldn't recommend using a pole saw for extended trimming because of the weight.
My crews have one designated saw operator who has the helmet, face shield, chaps and climbing harness if necessary.
What I would recommend is that for limb sectioning, use a timberjack and skidding tongs and you will be amazed how much faster your crew will be.

[Kate Butler]

Be sure and clear everything with your insurance company. You will find that your WC will skyrocket if you tell the truth. Also there are major liability issues with putting trees where you (or the homeowner) don't want 'em. You'll probably want to increase your liability to at least 2 mill.

[TN Property Services]

The guys that have mentioned chains are right on. Also previously mentioned was the kickback zone of the bar. Stihl puts wood cleats at the base of the bars for a reason. They are there so you can base the saw on the log, tilt the chain off of the log, bring the RPM's up, and then lower the "meat" of the bar into the log to make the cut.

There is also some useful information on Stihl's website.
www.stihlusa.com

[David C.]

1. Don't buy a saw thats so heavy you can't lift and hold it for long periods of time!

2. Keep the chain sharp---cutting a White Oak with a dull chain is like cuttin' the thing with your wife's butterknife