Operate Chainsaws

The chainsaw course is designed for both novice and experienced operators who may be expected to operate a chainsaw while performing their daily duties.

The learning programme provides information on basic safety in chainsaw operations and maintenance and outlines best practice in the felling of timber using standard and specialist techniques.

A learner accredited with this unit standard will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the functions of the chainsaw and the start-up, shutdown and operating procedures for the tool.

Course Content:

• Introduction to chainsaws
  • We look at types of chainsaws, parts and workings of a chainsaw, working principles and other related equipment.
• Chainsaw safety and legislation
  • We show learners how to develop a professional attitude, risk management, the operator, equipment, working environment, Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), responsibilities of chainsaw operators and the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993.
• Forest industry standards
  • Guidelines for Forest Engineering Practices in South Africa (FESA) section 10.13.2.
• Maintenance, checks and logs
  • We outline chainsaw maintenance, including power head and guide bar maintenance, daily service (or frequent service as required), chainsaw power head troubleshooting chart, the cutting attachment, drive sprockets, guide bar, saw chain, chain design, cutter profiles, chain sharpening, depth gauge setting, chain tension, cutting attachment troubleshooting chart and keeping logs.
• Machine-assisted tree felling operations
  • We guide learners to selecting a chainsaw, pre-start checks, mixing and adding fuel, safe chainsaw techniques, starting, cutting techniques, trim and cross-cut operations, branch/limb removal (chasing), basic principles of cross-cutting, log trap, wind throw and pushed trees, trimming and clearing.