This guideline is intended for anyone who is an occasional chainsaw user, including farmers, firewood gatherers and other non-vocational users.  It is not intended for professional forestry workers or arborists, as their work is already governed by detailed safety codes.

In this guideline you can find information on chainsaw safety devices, protective clothing and equipment you should wear, and time-tested advice on safe working methods. It also gives tips on maintaining your chainsaw and other ways you can safeguard yourself and other people.

Revised September 2011

Table of Contents

• About this Guideline
• Basic Rights and Responsibilities under the Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992
• Work Area Safety
• Know Your Capabilities
• Chainsaw Selection
• Know Your Chainsaw
• Personal Safety Equipment
• Checking Your Chainsaw
• Starting the Chainsaw
• Cutting with the chainsaw
• Avoiding Kickback
• Refuelling the Chainsaw
• Care of Your Chain
• Avoiding Health Problems
• General Chainsaw Maintenance