Chainsaw Operator Basic (Maintenance, Operations, Cut felled timber)

This course provides safety awareness on the use of Chainsaws. After completion of the programme they are able to demonstrate knowledge of parts, basic mechanics, safety, operating techniques and methods to cut timber, as well as carry out periodic maintenance on the chainsaw.

Course Content:

• External components of a chainsaw and their functions.
• Component parts of saw chain, chain dimensions, parts of a cutter and chip removal are explained.
• Design and types of guide bars.
• The mechanical function, types of chain drive sprockets and sprocket wear.
• Health and safety hazards related to chainsaw use.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.
• General safety requirements.
• Transportation requirements of chainsaws.
• Reactive forces.
• Operational safety requirements.
• Pre-operational checks is explained in terms of prolonging chainsaw life, maximising productivity, minimising cost, enhancing safety and minimising down time.
• Guide bar and saw chain are mounted and tensioned on the chainsaw.
• Factors related to sharpening.
• Holding the chainsaw with the correct stance.
• Cutting actions.
• Timber under compression and tension is identified and cutting action and sequence is demonstrated accordingly.
• De-branching techniques.
• Safe work practices during use and maintenance of the chainsaw.
• The importance of maintenance is explained in terms of prolonging chainsaw life, maximising productivity, minimising cost, enhancing safety and minimising down time.
• Checklists are completed according to procedures and corrective action is taken.
• Consequences of operating a chainsaw with a poorly maintained saw chain are explained.