I have worked in maintenance long enough to see my share of accidents and experience a few of my own, As much as most of us hate to admit it, most accidents can be avoided by simply wearing the proper personal protective equipment and maintaining a safety mindset. Chainsaws are a valuable tool when properly maintained, used within their specifications, and the indivduals using them are propely educated. Safety shaould always be your top priority when using a chainsaw. Personal protective equipment is the first step in operating a chainsaw safely. Eye protection should always be worn when operating a chainsaw. The cutting action of a chainsaw always generates wood dust as well as wood chips. A full face shield is highly recommended. This will not only protect your eyes but your face and neck as well. At a minimum, you should at least be wearing an OSHA approved pair of safety glasses. If all you have is a pair of safety glasses, I recommend wrapping a bandana around your face from the nose down. This will offer some protection but also act as a filter to keep you from breathing in wood dust.
Hearing protection is a must when operating a chainsaw. OSHA regulations state that an individual should not be exposed to 90 dB for more than an eight hour period. Chainsaw noise averages from 90-100 dB depending on make and model. There are many good ear muff-type protectors available today. If you use earplugs, make sure they are rated to the decibel level of noise that your chainsaw produces.
Longsleeves and leather gloves are essential when using a chainsaw. Woodchips and debri can go anywhere once a chainsaw starts cutting. Don't take anything for granted. One of the tricks that I use in the summer time is to use welding sleeves. Welding sleeves are used by welders when they have a short-sleeve shirt on. They are sleeves that fit over you arms and have an elastic on each end that holds them in place on your wrist and bicep. They can easily be removed when he job is done. No one wants to where a longsleeve shirt in the summer time. Welding sleeves offer you another alternative to keep safe.
Blue jeans and a pair of leather chaps are the preferred equipment to keep your legs and feet safe. Safety shoes are now equipped with composite as well as steel toes and come in a variety of styles. Safety is ultimately in the hands of the individual. If you do not wear the proper personal protective equipment, you ultimately open yourself up for injury. Don't be the person who gets injured and wonders for the rest of your life: "If I only...." Chainsaw safety should be your top priority whenever a job comes up where a chainsaw is needed.
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