Chainsaw Safety. Chainsaw kickback injuries

Do it the right way and prevent chainsaw injuries and chainsaw cuts

Family Handyman

A chainsaw is one of the most versatile tools you can own, but it cuts both wood and flesh equally well. Before you cut up a fallen tree, learn how to use this powerful tool safely.

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

Time A full day Complexity Beginner Cost 101–250

How to Use a Chainsaw Safely

Chainsaws are the perfect tool for cutting up fallen trees and large branches. But figuring out where to start and how to go about the job safely is a challenge. We enlisted a chainsaw expert to walk us through the process of cutting up a large fallen tree.

We’ll show you what we learned, including techniques for removing branches and cutting up the trunk. Of course, safety is the most important consideration when you’re using a chainsaw. See “Safety Tips” for key precautions I’ve taken to heart. But in addition to these tips, be sure to read and follow the safety precautions listed in your chainsaw owner’s manual.

Cut with the top or bottom of the bar and chain, but avoid the kickback zone

Kickback zone on a chainsaw

Avoid cutting with the “kickback zone” of the chainsaw bar. It can cause the saw to kick back toward you and cause chainsaw injuries.

Encircling grip

Keep control of the chainsaw while you’re cutting by using an encircling grip.

Cutting with the chain on the bottom of the bar is the most common and natural-feeling way to cut. The saw pulls slightly and is easy to control by maintaining a firm grip. Cutting from the underside of a branch requires you to cut with the top of the bar. This is a little unnerving at first because the saw pushes toward you. But it’s safe as long as you’re well braced and follow all other precautions.

However, there’s one spot on the bar that you should carefully avoid. This spot, called the kickback zone, is the top half of the bar’s tip. If the kickback zone comes in contact with something while the chain is moving, the saw will kick up and back toward you. That’s why modern chainsaws are equipped with a chain brake designed to stop the chain if a kickback occurs.

Chainsaw Injuries and Preventions Tips

The most common chainsaw injuries to the thigh and left arm can be virtually eliminated with just a few simple precautions. First, always wrap the thumb of your left hand around the front handle while you’re cutting. This encircling grip keeps the saw under control in the event of a kickback.

Second, when you move from place to place with the saw running, even if it’s only to the next branch, always remove your right hand from the back handle and carry the saw at your side with your left hand holding the front handle. Then if you trip or stumble, there’s no way the saw’s engine can accelerate and start the chain spinning.

Put on your safety gear

Buy safety gear and wear it. Special chaps will often stop a moving chain and save your thigh. A helmet with a face screen and ear protection is a convenient way to keep head, eye and ear protection handy in one comfortable package. Wear steel-toed, cut-resistant boots and a long-sleeved shirt to protect against the inevitable scratches. You’ll find this gear at chainsaw dealers.

The first step in chainsaw safety is to wear the right protective gear.

Get a Feel For Your Machine

Now that you’re dressed, fill the saw with gas that’s premixed with two-cycle oil (see your owner’s manual for the proper mix for your chainsaw). Then fill the oil tank with bar and chain oil. After the saw is filled, move it at least 10 ft. away from the filling area to a spot cleared of any ignitable debris.

To start the saw, engage the chain brake, turn on the ignition switch, pull out the choke (for a cold engine) and lock on the fast idle. With the saw sitting on the ground, put the toe of your right boot into the back handle loop and grasp the front handle with a stiff left arm. Pull the starter handle to fire up the engine. Push in the choke and take it off fast idle, then pull the chain brake back toward the front handle to release the chain brake for cutting.

Get a feel for how your saw responds to the throttle. Cut only when you are in a comfortable, well-balanced position with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Stand to one side of the saw, never directly behind it.

You’ll feel different forces when cutting. When cutting with the bottom of the bar, the saw will pull you into the work. When cutting with the top of the bar (undercutting), the saw will tend to push you away from the work. This second force is called a pushing chain. When cutting with a pushing chain, brace the back handle of the saw or your arm against your thigh to gain more control of the saw and reduce fatigue.

Adjusting Chain Tension

Before starting, check the chain tension. Recheck it after every hour or so of use, and adjust it if necessary. New chains stretch and need to be checked after 20 minutes of use. Loose chains can fly off the bar, causing serious injury. A loose chain also damages the driver’s BAR on the chain and prevents them from fitting back into the bar groove.

To make adjustments, loosen the bar nuts that hold the bar. Then lift the bar while tightening the adjusting screw until the chain is snug against the bar. The tension is correct when you can’t lift the chain drivers free of the bar groove but you can still drag the chain easily around the bar with a gloved hand. Retighten the bar nuts.

Loosen bar nuts. Retighten bar nuts.

Plan a Strategy for Cutting the Tree

Photo 1: Start cutting at the trunk, working toward the top

Cut off branches starting at the lower end of the trunk and working to the top. Whenever possible, rest the saw engine against the trunk and pivot the bar through the branch.

Photo 2: Start cutting downward on branches under pressure.

Cut off branches that are under pressure by first cutting downward through one-third of the branch.

Photo 3: Finish the cut by sawing upward.

Finish the cut by sawing upward to meet the first cut. Be prepared for the trunk to roll or drop.

Before you even start your saw, stand back and size up the situation. Think about how you’ll cut each branch and what will happen when you do. Obviously, branches facing up will fall.

Make sure the fall path is open. It’s not so clear what will happen when you cut branches trapped under the fallen tree. They’ll be under pressure, and in some cases removing them will cause the tree to drop. Even seasoned pros can’t always predict how far the trunk will drop, or whether the tree will roll.

But you should always imagine the worst-case scenario and be prepared for it. Take a few minutes to clear a path behind you and to the side for a quick retreat. And always work with a partner so that if you become trapped or injured, you’ll have someone to call for help.

Start by removing branches closest to the lower end of the trunk, and work toward the top of the tree. Whenever possible, stand on the uphill side of the tree. Photos 1 – 3 show techniques for removing branches from the top side of the trunk and branches under pressure.

Work from the left side of the trunk (as you face toward the top of the tree). This allows the safest and most efficient use of the chainsaw because you can rest the side or bottom of the saw on the trunk and slice off the branches with a pivoting motion (Photo 1).

Chainsaw Cuts: Cutting the Tree Trunk

Photo 4: Start cutting downward in the trunk.

Cut trunks that are supported at both ends by making a downward cut one-third the diameter of the trunk.

Photo 5: Cut upward to complete the cut

Finish by cutting up from underneath. Be prepared for one or both sides to drop.

Photo 6: Take the pressure off the saw during a cut.

Stop the engine if the bar gets bound up or stuck. Then use a stout branch or 4×4 to lift the trunk and open the cut enough to remove the saw.

Photo 7: Saw the trunk into firewood

Cut a log into 16-in. lengths for firewood by first sawing three-quarters of the way through the log. Then roll it over and complete the cuts.

As you cut branches out from under the trunk, it will settle to the ground. Finally, the trunk will either rest entirely on the ground or hang suspended. If it’s suspended, cut the trunk loose from the stump and carefully roll it to the ground. If you try to cut straight down through a trunk that’s supported on both ends, the weight of the trunk will pinch the bar and stop the saw. Instead, use the technique shown in Photos 4 and 5 to avoid binding.

The saw can also become pinched if you cut too far through a branch that supports the trunk. If this happens, stop the engine and use a stout branch as a lever to lift the trunk and free the saw (Photo 6).

After the trunk is free of branches and resting safely on the ground, cut it into manageable pieces, usually about 16 in. long for firewood. Start by cutting the trunk into 8-ft. long sections, a length short enough to roll over. Pick a spot on the trunk that has about a 3- to 6-in. gap under it. Otherwise, your chain will hit the ground and quickly dull as you finish the cut.

Keep the bar parallel to the ground as you near the end of the cut, and finish with the bottom of the saw engine resting flat on the ground. That’ll prevent the chain from accidentally hitting the dirt. Now use the process shown in Photo 7 to cut the longer sections into 16-in. lengths. With this method, you don’t have to worry about your chain hitting the ground.

The Chainsaw Commandments

• Most chainsaw injuries happen to the thigh when the operator is carrying a running saw. That’s why chainsaw pants or chaps are important. When transporting the saw less than 10 ft., carry it by the front handle only. That way if you trip you won’t accidentally accelerate the saw and cut your thigh. When moving more than 10 ft., switch off the engine.
• Instruct everyone never to blindly approach the operator. The noise of the chainsaw and the concentration required may make the operator oblivious to someone coming up from behind to announce lunch.
• Never cut alone. If an accident occurs, you’ll need someone there to administer first aid and summon medical assistance.
• Keep your cell phone with you for emergencies.
• Understand the bar’s kickback zone and avoid getting into kickback situations.
• Never cut above shoulder height.
• Work on the uphill side of trees so they’ll roll away from you instead of over you.
• Use your chain brake! Whenever you aren’t cutting, the brake should be in the locked, or “On,” position.
• Start all cuts with a full throttle before touching the wood.
• Never run a chainsaw when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When fatigued, rest!
• Protect your back. When trying to move logs, use a lever or get help.
• Avoid touching the ground with the chain because even a brief encounter will severely dull the cutting teeth.
• Keep the chain sharp. A dull chain is unsafe, hard on both the bar and chain, and it overworks you and your saw.

Chicago Chainsaw Injury Attorneys

Many people have come to underestimate how dangerous chainsaws are and the immense harm that they can cause to an operator or innocent bystander if they are not used responsibly. Their widespread appearance in movies and video games has made the general public view them as more of a novelty than a tool that has a purpose and requires training to use properly.

Despite the risks of serious injury associated with them, chain saws do not require licenses to operate and many of the people who use them lack such training and are unaware of safety protocols that would keep them out of harm’s way.

The construction accident lawyers at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC represent people seriously injured due to accidents with chainsaws at work. We also help people (including their family members and loved ones) have been injured due to the negligence of others using a chainsaw.

As with all of our personal injury and wrongful death cases, we handle chainsaw accident cases on a contingency fee basis, where we only receive a legal fee when we are successful in obtaining a financial recovery for you.

Use our contact form to speak to one of the personal injury lawyers of our law offices, because they can help you grasp how personal injury law. A personal injury lawsuit can also help you recover financial compensation for your medical expenses and other damages.

The personal injury attorneys at our law firm have years of experience bringing personal injury claims and can help you every step of the way.

Chainsaw Safety Guidelines

Many of the injuries caused by chainsaw are due to recklessness, poor judgment, or a lack of understanding concerning safe and responsible use. Chainsaw operators are capable of harming themselves and the people around them when they fail to follow these general guidelines.

• Chain saws should never be airdropped to start— a process in which the user drops the chainsaw with one hand while pulling the start cord with the other. This can result in losing control over the chainsaw.
• Chain saw blades become dull, creating a hazard when the chain saw must operate with more force to create a cut. Blades should be routinely sharpened and many operators are not trained on how to do so properly.
• Chain saws have limitations and users should be aware of whether the chain saw being used is suitable for the job at hand. Some jobs require saws with greater horsepower and torque to power through larger objects while others require more precision and finesse.
• Chain saws should never be used in the absence of other people. It is important that the operator never uses the chainsaw alone because the presence of another person ensures that if something unfortunate should happen that the operator will have someone to assist him or her in getting medical attention.
• Chain saw operators should wear proper safety equipment which includes a helmet, safety glasses, protective gloves, and leather chaps and boots.
• Operators should avoid use around hard objects such as stones or metal and should never work around power lines or electrical wiring.
• Kickback is a major cause of injury due to the fact that it can occur even in chain saws advertised to reduce or eliminate it. When an operator loses control of the chain saw is when it is most probable that an accident will occur.

Operating a chainsaw is dangerous and demands knowledge and protection. Get additional resources and data about the hazards workers face from cutting with a chain blade or from related accidents like falls. Tree workers in the tree care industry (when cutting branches, limbs, etc.) are especially vulnerable.

Contact us if you were hurt by a blade in the leg, arm, shoulder, teeth, or anywhere else. We can help protect you when cutting tree branches, tree limbs, or anything else.

How Many People Die From Chainsaw Accidents?

Tens of thousands of people are injured annually in the United States and many of these victims unfortunately die from their injuries. Companies sell close to five million new chainsaws each year-these and older versions contribute to these fatalities and harm.

Learn about protection strategies before cutting anything especially trees like, for example, tree branches, wood, or similar items. Workers face many hazards and trauma they don’t realize until it is too late.

How Do Most Chainsaw Accidents Happen Like Chainsaw Kickback?

Most chainsaws occur when either the chain or guide bar collides with an object and the saw kicks back. These can happen in a split second and cause life-altering injuries or even death.

Chainsaw kickback is common too and that causes many chainsaw injuries beyond the average chainsaw injury. Other injuries happen for these reasons:

• Lack of head, eye, or hearing protection like a hard hat or safety glasses
• Falling tree limbs or branches and other problems around trees
• The chain broke
• A kickback occurs
• Failure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions
• Not using proper cutting techniques and safe work practices
• Chain break while sawing into wood

Note, a chain saw operator should wear personal protective equipment and learn about chainsaw safety. This will prevent most injuries including head injuries for the chainsaw operator.

What Is the Safest Chainsaw?

In the United States, in terms of reported injuries and deaths, the safest chainsaws are made by Black Decker, WORX, and Husqvarna.

Where Do Most Chainsaw Injuries Occur?

Most victims of chainsaw accidents suffer injuries to their knees, leg or legs, arm or arms, shoulder and wrists. They can get a deep laceration or deep lacerations all across their body.

Operating chainsaws especially around a tree is serious. At any time, a sudden injury or infection can happen to your right hand, left hand, upper leg, lower legs teeth, knee. neck

Data shows that improper use of a chainsaw or failing to follow the manufacturer’s instructions can cause serious chainsaw injury or even serious chainsaw injuries to the chain saw operator.

Chainsaw safety training and protection can help protect workers from the hazards of cutting with a chainsaw blade into items like wood, trees, and more.

Should You Wear Gloves When Using a Chainsaw?

Yes, you should always wear gloves when operating or cutting with a chainsaw. You should also use personal proactive head gear, chaps, and jackets. This is especially important when sawing up things like trees, tree parts, wood, or similar things. Otherwise, you could suffer damage to your arms, right or left hand, leg, head, or somewhere else.

Product Liability Chainsaw Injury Cases Involving Manufacturers and Suppliers

On occasion, the omission of information or lack of warnings in chain saw instruction manuals or manufacturer defects may be the cause of an injury. In these situations, the injured party may file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer and other parties responsible for the design and distribution of the defective saw.

If workers have been injured in a chainsaw accident, it is important that you quickly establish a timeline of events in order to determine the cause of the accident. The information you are able to gather or provide to an attorney will help establish your case should it be determined that another party is liable.

If you are injured while cutting on the job, your employer is required to provide workers with workers’ compensation. You may also be entitled to claim damages if the employer did not provide adequate training or safety equipment prior to the accident.

The manufacturer may be considered liable as well if the chain saw malfunctioned due to a defect or poor design. Compensation can include the cost of your medical bills, pain and suffering and any wages you lose due to the inability to work.

If your injury affects your ability to retain or gain future employment, talk to our construction site accident lawyers to see if you may be awarded damages for the loss of potential income as well.

Get a Free Legal Consultation for Your Chainsaw Accident Case Today

Contact the Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC today to learn more about your rights during a free consultation with an attorney. We will perform an investigation after collecting all the important evidence we require from you in order to determine who is liable for your injuries. This will help determine the approximate value of your case and how we would advise you to proceed.

Each of our construction worker injury attorneys is qualified and experienced to handle your case with the greatest care and expertise. We guarantee our work and if we are unable to collect money on your behalf, our services will cost you nothing.

How to prevent chainsaw injuries

The power that makes a chainsaw the tool of choice for cutting up tree limbs also makes it one of the most dangerous power tools homeowners commonly use. Each year, about 30,000 people are seen in hospital emergency rooms with chainsaw-related injuries, most commonly to the hands and legs. The following advice can help minimize the risk of chainsaw inuries.

For advice on repairing a chainsaw, see our chainsaw repair help.

Wear protective gear

Always wear safety gear, including steel-toed shoes, heavy-duty, nonslip gloves, eye and hearing protection and an ANSI-approved hard hat. Safety chaps are an excellent idea. That might seem excessive until you realize that the average chainsaw injury requires more than 110 stitches.

No one under age 16 should operate a chainsaw. This federal workplace regulation makes equally good sense at home.

Secure the wood

Avoid chainsaw kickback

Kickback—the cause of most major chainsaw injuries—happens when the chain jams and stops in the wood. In a fraction of a second, the trapped energy pops the guide bar out of the wood and throws the chainsaw back at you with tremendous force. By the time it reaches you, the chain has resumed its normal speed of about 60 miles an hour.

Equipment. The tip of the guide bar is prone to digging into the wood and jamming. When it does, the kickback sends the chainsaw up toward your head. To prevent this hazard, use a chainsaw with an anti-kickback chain and a tip guard that mounts on the end of the guide bar.

Pinching. A partially cut log can sag at the cut, pinching the chain and sending the chainsaw in the direction opposite the chain rotation, straight back toward your body. To prevent pinching, make cuts in two passes rather than one. Start on the side that would get pinched, cutting about one-quarter of the way through, and then finish the from the other side.

If the blade does get pinched, stop the chainsaw, insert a plastic or wood wedge in the cut to open it up and then remove the saw.

Body position. Position yourself so you won’t be in the path of the chainsaw if it kicks back. Stand slightly to the left side of the chainsaw so that your body isn’t directly in line with the guide bar.

Grip. You can use your grip to direct potential kickback away from you:

• Keep both hands on the chainsaw while cutting.
• Grip the rear handle with your right hand, whether you are right- or left-handed.
• Wrap the fingers of your left hand over and around the front handlebar and wrap the thumb underneath.
• Keep your left arm straight with the elbow locked.

What Is A Chainsaw Kickback? Tips Tricks To Avoid Kickbacks

A chainsaw becomes extremely dangerous in the hands of an inexperienced operator, especially when the untrained cutters put themselves at risk of kickbacks. Therefore, before operating the chainsaw, every sawyer must learn what is a chainsaw kickback, how it is caused, and how to avoid it!

Kickback is an unexpected reaction of the chainsaw that happens so quickly. It is the most common cause of chainsaw-related accidents. In kickback, the chainsaw guide bar moves upward suddenly, and it happens when the nose of the guide bar hits an object. Remember that even a still chainsaw chain can cut the flesh. Therefore, you can think of how dangerous could a running chainsaw be.

Fortunately, many modern chainsaws are equipped with chain brakes and kickback protection. The chainsaw safety features prevent the chainsaw operator from life-threatening injuries caused by the kickbacks. But, if your chainsaw is not equipped with these safety features no need to worry about that till you follow all the preventive measures.

Provided below is the explanation of what is a chainsaw kickback, its causes, and useful tips from the experts. So, let’s head into the details!

What Is A Chainsaw Kickback: A Complete Understanding

So, you have been searching to know what is a chainsaw kickback. It is the sudden upward movement of the chainsaw. Kickbacks are dangerous and the most common cause of chainsaw accidents happening around the globe.

Remember that once the chainsaw decides to bite back, lefts nothing you can do. That is because; you should always keep yourself prepared and take preventive measures to avoid this jolt while working with a chainsaw.

When you are working with the chainsaw, and if its chainsaw gets snagged, the kickback would be the result you will face. The chainsaw engine is still running, and the tool is getting energy continuously; therefore, it has to go somewhere. As there is a reaction for every action, the chainsaw causes the kickback. So, you can also conclude that the more a chainsaw gets stuck, the more violent the kickbacks will be.

The kickbacks most commonly happen on the kickback zone, which is the 90 ° angle at the tip of the chainsaw bar. So, if you use this point for cutting the chainsaw, the tool can easily get pinched in the wood, resulting in kickback.

In addition, other factors can also cause the kickbacks as basic maintenance or setup. For instance, if the chainsaw chain is dull and you have been using it as it is, there is a high risk of kickback.

Furthermore, if the chainsaw chain is not tight enough, it will significantly increase the risk of chainsaw kickback. You can prepare for the kickbacks by wearing the right safety equipment and maintaining the chainsaw!

What Are The Different Types Of Chainsaw Kickbacks?

Chainsaw kickbacks are classified into three different types. Let’s have a look over them all and find out who they occur:

i. The Linear Kickbacks

The linear kickback bars occur when the chainsaw bar at the other end is pinched shut because of any object you are cutting. So, remember that any time you cut the wood, if the chainsaw chain gets pinched from any side of the object, the chainsaw will be pushed back at full throttle. It happens due to the excessive power of your tool.

So, to ensure the safe use of a chainsaw, never allow the chainsaw chain to get pinched in, and always work carefully.

ii. The Rotational Kickbacks

Rotational kickbacks are the most common type of kickbacks, but they are also pretty dangerous. The kickback is not controllable and occurs as the tip of the chainsaw guide bar nose touches any object. Resultantly, the chainsaw gets wild and is pushed back to the chainsaw user at full speed. The nose tip causing the rotational kickbacks is also known as the kickback zone.

The chainsaw would run on the wood instead of cutting the wood when the cutting angles of the teeth angle back. The force used to grain into the wood moves the chainsaw guide bar’s tip upward toward you.

It happens all of a sudden that you will not get enough time to control anything. So, it is how a chainsaw user gets surprised by the kickback in a split second!

iii. The Pull-In Kickbacks

The pull-in occurs when the chainsaw gets hit by the wood or nail at the other end. As a consequence of this encounter, the chainsaw will be jerked forward away from the operator’s grip. It could be equally hazardous as it can hit anybody working or standing in your territory.

What Are The Potential Causes Of The Chainsaw Kickbacks?

The chainsaw kickbacks usually occur when the chainsaw gets pinched in any object as wood or nails. When the chainsaw teeth hit the wood, the tool could not cut the wood any further. So, in the end, the power of the chainsaw engine results in a kickbacks bar of the chainsaw. Therefore, the more a chainsaw chain gets stuck into the wood; the more brutal the consequences will be.

Normally, the chainsaw chain teeth take a little piece of the wood while cutting. The process is pretty quick, so you get clean cuts. The depth gauges decide the depth of each cut, which lets the chainsaw t cut only a small piece of wood, but, in the kickback zone, the chain is aligned in such a way that it cuts more wood than the advised, which is not safer in any way.

So, if you want to cut safely and want to keep yourself prevented from kickback, find out the causes of kickback just below and avoid them while operating the chainsaw:

The Kickback Danger Zone

The top of the chainsaw guide bar tip is known as the kickback danger zone. It is the part of the chainsaw guide bar which is at the highest risk of kickbacks. You should never use this part of the chainsaw guide bar while cutting the wood. Using this part while cutting increases the risk of kickback multiple times.

When the chainsaw kickback danger zone touches anything like a log or branch, a sudden kickback occurs. The larger the chainsaw guide bar nose is, the higher the potential for the chainsaw kickback.

When The Wood Pinches The Chainsaw Chain

When you cut with the chainsaw, and the wood gets closed around the chainsaw chain tightly, it results in kickbacks. That is why chainsaw experts always recommend making a plan before every cut while operating the chainsaw.

Many chainsaw operators try to cut through the truck in one cut, but it could be dangerous. It is because the chainsaw chain can get pinched while cutting the wood. Therefore, you must perform two instead of one cut to stay safe when using the chainsaw. The following are the two approaches you can opt for cutting while using the chainsaw:

i. Cutting A Log Which Is Supported At Both Ends

When the log is supported at both ends, the middle part of the wood is always clear for you to make cuts. So, the following would be the steps you follow for cutting the wood:

Cut Down The Wood Through the Top

First, you will cut the wood halfway through the top and stop afterward. If you continue to cut the wood this way, the wood will pinch the chainsaw chain, and kickback will result.

Cut Up The Wood Through The Bottom

Now, cut the wood from the bottom and meet the first cut. In this way, the wood will fall away from the chainsaw blade.

ii. Cutting The Log Supported At One End Only

If the wood is supported at one end only, then you will follow the below-mentioned steps:

Cut Up The Log Through The Bottom

You will cut through the bottom of the wood halfway up and then stop cutting. If you continue to cut, the wood will pinch the chainsaw and result in kickback.

Cut Down The Log Through The Top

It’s time to make the other cut. So, start cutting the wood from the top to meet your first cut. The two pieces of wood will fall.

Different Other Factors Contributing To The Chainsaw Kickbacks

Alongside all the factors mentioned above, the following are the other factors that boost the chances for kickbacks:

• When you cut with a dull chainsaw chain, kickbacks result.
• By not maintaining the chainsaw, you increase the risks of chainsaw kickbacks. So, take special care of your chainsaw in use.
• If the chainsaw chain is too loose, kickback will occur
• The chain breaks with use, so if you are using a cracked or damaged chain, it could be a reason for kickbacks
• Incorrectly installed chainsaw chain parts
• If you have sharpened the chainsaw at incorrect angles
• Loose rivets can be a cause for kickbacks
• Incorrect chainsaw chain depth gauges

Remember that the chainsaw occurs because of two or three factors collectively. Therefore, to keep yourself safe, you must maintain your tool and pay extra attention while using the longer chainsaw, as it increases the chances of chainsaw kickbacks.

How Can You Reduce The Chainsaw Kickbacks: Different Ways

Now that you have learned why the chainsaws can kick back, below is how you can significantly reduce the chances of the kickbacks.

Read The Chainsaw Manual

Reading the chainsaw manual to understand the manufacturer’s instructions would be the first thing you must do while starting the chainsaw. The manual provides you with the information needed for chainsaw usage. So this way, you can learn how to use a chainsaw, especially if you are a beginner.

Don’t Forget To Check The Chainsaw Chain Brakes

The chainsaw chain brake is a crucial safety feature of the chainsaw. The brake has been specially designed to stop the chainsaw chain saw by applying the brake. So, you would find it pretty useful if the kickbacks occur, as the brake will keep you safe from serious chainsaw kickback injury by stopping the chain. Getting hit by the stopped chainsaw is better than being hit by a spinning chain.

The chain brake also stops the chainsaw chain from accidentally getting a higher speed while you are switching the cutting positions; the chainsaw has two different types of braking systems, including the mechanical braking system and the inertia braking system. At the same time, many chainsaws, like Husqvarna chainsaws, can have a TrioBrake. You can also look for a chainsaw that has an anti-kickback chainsaw brake.

Always Keep The Chainsaw Chain Sharp

The dull chainsaw chain increases the risk of kickbacks. It is because the teeth cannot cut through the wood. As a result, the chainsaw gets stuck, and kickback occurs. So, always keep the chainsaw chain sharp.

Prepare The Chainsaw

Checking the chainsaw before using it is always a good idea. Keep in mind the chainsaw with sharp teeth always cuts efficiently and quickly. Besides that, you must check the chainsaw air filter, muffler, spark plug, and other chainsaw parts and ensure that they work perfectly.

chainsaw kickback #shorts

It is a way to ensure that the chainsaw engine will run better and reduce the risk of kickbacks later on. You can also keep the instructions manual while operating the chainsaw, so you can get to know anything you feel you need.

The right chainsaw chain tension ensures the long life of the chainsaw chain so you can cut more precisely. The loose chain can be a reason for chainsaw injuries. Likewise, a too-tight chainsaw chain can easily become old and blunt.

Lastly, the lubrication of the chainsaw chain is necessary to keep your tool in good working condition for a long time. So, you must frequently check the chainsaw bar oil and refill it per your needs.

Maintain The Solid Grip

When using the chainsaw, you must have a solid grip. Holding chainsaws with both hands when you are using a chainsaw is pretty crucial. Also, ensure that the chainsaw does not slip because of sweating. Also, you can use a good pair of gloves for this purpose.

Watch For The Kickbacks Zone

Never cut with the chainsaw guide bar’s tip. It is an area notorious for kickbacks. So, you remain alert and must use the right part of the chainsaw for cutting.

Learn How To Operate The Chainsaw Safely

Per the instruction of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), while operating the chainsaw, you will put your right hand and thumb around the forward handle to grip it firmly. At the same time, hold the rear handle with your right hand. over, remain in a steady and firm body position when you are going to start the chainsaw.

I explained all the techniques for using chainsaws safely in my other post. If you are worried about chainsaw safety precautions, please look at them and keep yourself safe from any bad incident. “How To Use A Chainsaw Safely: Tips Tricks“

Inspect The Working Area And Stay Alert

The working area must be free of any obstacles. If you find anything else, like the electrical wire, remove them from the working zone first. The wood pieces can get into you anytime, so stay active and alert while operating the chainsaw.

Wearing The Right Safety Equipment

For safe working, you must wear the right chain saw safety equipment to keep yourself protected. You must wear eyewear, chainsaw pants or chaps, heavy work boots, gloves, and a safety helmet. Besides that, earmuffs are also a must, especially if you use a gas-powered chainsaw.

Helmet:

A durable and right-size chainsaw safety helmet is necessary to use as it saves you from injuries in the head at the time of any incident while using the chainsaw.

Please look at a few options of chainsaw safety helmets available in the market and click on the link for detailed information about chainsaw safety helmets.

Pants:

Wearing the safety dress while using the chainsaw keeps you safe from unexpected injuries and helps you complete your job. Because chainsaw safety pants offer hooks and other places for holding and gripping chainsaws and related tools for cutting wood/branches.

Still, if you dont have chainsaw safety pants, go for the best ones from the below option.

Gloves:

Chainsaw safety gloves are important because they protect you from injuries while working and help gripe chainsaws and other tools.

Various brands are available in the market that offers chainsaw safety gloves; please have a look at the below options.

ear muffs

If you dont want to become deaf while working with a chainsaw, you must use Ear Muffs. Chainsaw engines produce high DB noise while running, hurting your listening power. Therefore, buy earmuffs if you dont have them yet.

What Do You Know About The Anti-Kickback Chain?

Chainsaw kickbacks occur frequently and commonly cause chainsaw injuries. Therefore, manufacturers now provide newly designed chainsaw chains to minimize reactive forces. These chains are known as anti-kickback or low-kickback chains.

The anti-kickback chainsaw put a limit on the amount of wood fiber that is hooked as a working corner in the kickback zone. To accomplish this limitation, an extra metal is added to the tie straps between the cutting teeth. As a result, the straps function at higher depth gauges as they move around the top of the chainsaw bar.

In addition, the newly designed chainsaw chains reduce the chances of kickbacks due to the drive links, which have built-in bumpers and ramped depth gauges. So, the chainsaw deflects the wood fiber to a specific limit when the chain moves through the kickback danger zone.

The only drawback of these chainsaw chains is that you can’t use the chainsaw for felling trees. The tool is only suitable for bucking, limbing, firewood cutting, and pruning. But the following are the other features you can opt for to minimize the chances of kickbacks:

• The chain brake stops the chainsaw chain from spinning at the kickback time.
• A tip guard installed on the front of the chainsaw bar prevents you from using that part of the bar while cutting.
• The front hand guard protects the top hand from accidental injuries.

Avoiding The Chainsaw Kickbacks: Tips And Tricks

The following are the tips I used to follow while operating the chainsaws, and I found them very effective as these preventive measures reduce the kickback chances significantly. So, let’s have a look over these and understand how you need to operate the chainsaw:

• When operating the chainsaw, always hold the tool firmly with both hands. With your right hand, you can firmly grip the rear handle and hold the front handle with the help of your left hand.
• While cutting, you must keep an eye on the chainsaw nose bar and ensure that it does not come in contact with any object, like branches, logs, or other objects.
• When you start your work, ensure that the area in which you work is free of all obstacles.
• It may surprise you, but through my experience of several years, I have realized that the cutting efficiency of chainsaw chains increases at a higher speed and also reduces the risk of kickbacks.
• Always use specially designed low-kickback chainsaw chains to avoid kickbacks. These chains can significantly reduce the chances or risk of chainsaw injuries.
• Hold the chainsaw close to yourself, and never cut above the shoulders.
• The small wooden pieces of the wood pieces can be thrown upwards at you. So, take care of them while operating, as you may lose control because of them.
• It is better to work on the left side of the tree and remain as close as possible to the chainsaw. This way, you can get maximum control over your tool while working.
• Whenever you feel unwell or distracted, it is better not to operate the chainsaw.
• It is not safe to cut the stacked logs or branches. Therefore, you must separate them all and then cut one piece at a time.
• Before operating the chainsaw, it should be your duty to ensure that the chainsaw chain brake system is working perfectly.
• If everything fails, the personal safety equipment will always be there for your safety and protection. Therefore, wearing the complete safety kit while using the chainsaw is necessary.

Chainsaw Kickbacks: What Do You Not To Do?

The following are the things that a chainsaw operator is not supposed to do at any cost:

• Never stand behind the chainsaw directly.
• No need to cut with the tip of the chainsaw guide bar or avoid cutting with the kickback zone
• Don’t cut anything else which is above your shoulder height

What Is A Chainsaw Kickback: Frequently Asked Questions

How often does the chainsaw kickback happen?

The chainsaw kickback occurs in a few seconds as soon as any of the chain links come in contact with the wood. The kickbacks are so quick that the chainsaw operator doesn’t get enough time to react.

What is the most common chainsaw injury?

The most common chainsaw injuries involve the hands and foot, and only a few injuries (less than 10%) involve the head or face. The death rate from such accidents is pretty low.

Can A Woman Handle The Chainsaw?

The women can easily handle the chainsaw and can use them successfully felling the trees. So, the chainsaws for women are the same for men.

Which Is The Safest Chainsaw?

Electric chainsaws are the safest whether they are corded or battery-operated. Electric chainsaws run at a slower speed and are less powerful than gas-powered chainsaws, and most importantly, the chainsaw for kickbacks will be pretty low if you use an electric chainsaw.

Final Words: What Is A Chainsaw Kickback

Those woodworkers who operate the chainsaw regularly know how dangerous a log or limb could become when the chainsaw guide bar hits it. It is how kickbacks are caused. If you don’t know what is a chainsaw kickback, it is a quick and unexpected response as it encounters any object.

Consequently, the chainsaw falls on the operator and may cause severe chainsaw injuries. The best way to prevent these kickbacks is to avoid those circumstances with a risk of this accident. So, you should always hold the chainsaw with both hands and observe the safety operation principles while using the chainsaw!

What is Chainsaw Kickback? What Causes Kickback? (And Tips on How to Avoid It)

Would you also like to know how to avoid a kickback injury?

I put this article together to give you all of the information you need to use your chainsaw as safely as possible.

Chainsaw safety: Kickback, pushback, and pull-in

So, keep reading to discover what chainsaw kickback is and how to protect yourself from it.

What is Chainsaw Kickback?

The term “kickback” is used to describe the sudden, upward motion of a chainsaw’s guide bar.

Believe it or not, but it’s one of the most common causes of accidents that happen with a chainsaw, and it’s usually caused by not using proper chainsaw cutting techniques.

Kickback can happen in the blink of an eye too.

It’s incredibly dangerous and could result in a serious injury that could send you to the hospital

In fact, about 30,000 chainsaw-related injuries happen each year, with chainsaw kickback accidents being the most common hazard.

What Causes Chainsaw Kickback?

In general, there are three situations that cause chainsaw kickback.

• The chain hits a hard object in the kickback zone.
• The wood pinches the chain in the middle of a cut.
• Other factors that contribute to chainsaw kickback.

The Kickback Zone

There’s one part of your chainsaw that’s referred to as the “kickback zone”.

The kickback danger zone is the very tip of the chainsaw bar.

The reason it has this name is that the chainsaw tip is the most common part of the chainsaw that can cause a kickback.

Since that area of the chainsaw has the highest kickback risk, it’s advised that you never use this part of the chainsaw bar to cut.

If you do, you’ll significantly increase the chances of experiencing dangerous kickback occurrence.

Should the tip of the chainsaw bar touch an object, including a branch or log, it’s highly likely that the kickback reaction will occur.

This is true even if you have one of the best rated chainsaw models with the most safety features.

The Wood Pinches the Chain

If you’re cutting with a chainsaw and the wood closes around the chain tightly, it can cause a chainsaw kickback to occur.

Therefore, it’s always best to make a plan before you cut a log or tree trunk so that the chain doesn’t become pinched.

As a new chainsaw user, your instincts might tell you to cut all the way through a tree branch or trunk in one cut. But, that can be dangerous due to the chance of the chain getting pinched during the cut.

So, you’ll want to perform two cuts, NOT one, to stay safe while using your chainsaw.

Here’s how to approach the most common cutting situations in the safest manner possible:

How to Cut a Log Supported on Both Ends

• Cut down through the top of the wood about halfway through. Then stop. (If you were to cut all the way through, the wood would pinch the chain since the downward pressure of the load would force the two halves of the wood together before you could finish the cut.)
• Cut up through the bottom of the wood to meet the first cut. (The wood will bow down and inward, falling away from the chainsaw blade.)

How to Cut a Log Supported on One End

If a log or branch is supported on one end, as you’ll often see with a downed tree, then you’ll want to make your cuts in this order:

• Cut up through the bottom of the wood about halfway through. Then stop. (If you were to cut all the way through, the wood would pinch the chain since the downward pressure of the load would force the two halves of the wood together before you could finish the cut.)
• Cut down through the top of the wood to meet the first cut. (The wood will fall down and away from the chainsaw blade.)

Note: The reason you wouldn’t want to make just one cut down through the top of the wood is because of the downward pressure of the load. If you didn’t provide a relief cut from under the bottom of the wood first, the branch or log might snap off before you finish the top cut. Therefore, using two cuts is a much safer process.

Other Factors That Contribute to Chainsaw Kickback

While the first two things we covered will contribute the most to chainsaw kickbacks, there are a few other factors that can increase the chance of a kickback happening.

• Chainsaws that have not been maintained properly.
• Cutting with a dull chain.
• The tension on the chain being too loose.
• Chain parts that have been incorrectly installed.
• Chain parts that are cracked, bent, or broken.
• Chain cutting angles that have been sharpened incorrectly. (Always use a high-quality chainsaw sharpener for this reason.)
• Chain depth gauge settings that are excessive.
• Chain depth gauge shapes that are incorrect.
• Rivets that are loose.

When it comes to chainsaw kickback, one or several of these factors might also play a role.

So, keep your chainsaw properly maintained and inspect it thoroughly before each use for any potential problems or defects.

Additionally, as the size of the guide bar’s nose gets larger, the potential for kickback increases.

Therefore, you should be extra cautious when operating a longer chainsaw blade like an 18 inch chainsaw model.

How to Reduce Chainsaw Kickback?

Now that you know what is chainsaw kickback and the top factors that cause it, we can now talk about some steps you can take to reduce your chances of experiencing a kickback.

• Before using a new chainsaw, make sure to read the operating instructions in their entirety. Don’t assume that every chainsaw works exactly the same. Educate yourself on the proper way to handle the equipment you have.
• Always be awake and alert when using the chainsaw. Never use a chainsaw if you’re feeling fatigued.
• Double-check that the chain brake on your saw works before you start cutting.
• Never cut with the tip of the chain. This is considered the “kickback zone”.
• Be overly cautious when removing tree branches. If the nose bar strikes anything, including stumps, hidden branches, or logs, this could cause the chainsaw to kickback.
• Never use the chainsaw above shoulder height. You have less control over the tool and might not be able to stop a sudden backward thrust of the blade.
• When felling a tree (cutting it down), always use the bottom side of the bar to make your cuts. Never cut with the top of the bar.
• When felling a tree or crosscutting wood, consider boring the base of the chainsaw into the trunk or log. Many chainsaws include bucking spikes to help stabilize the tool and prevent sudden kickbacks.
• Always know where the nose of your chainsaw is and how it’s positioned.
• Consider using a low-kickback chain on your chainsaw.
• Use chainsaws that have narrow nose bars. Remember, the larger the nose bar is, the greater the chance of experiencing kickback.
• Always wear the right chainsaw protective gear and equipment to protect yourself while using a chainsaw. The items you should be wearing include:
• Protective eyewear
• Chainsaw chaps or pants
• Chainsaw gloves
• A hard hat (if you get a helmet with a face shield, this will keep your eyes protected and you won’t need separate safety glasses)
• Earmuffs or earplugs
• Heavy work boots (you might consider wearing logging boots that are made specifically for chainsaw work)
• Always keep your fingers wrapped tightly around your chainsaw handles. Using a half-grip doesn’t give you as much control over the tool.
• Make sure you follow the maintenance instructions that are provided with your chainsaw and chain to keep both in proper working condition.

What is an Anti-Kickback Chain (Low-Kickback Chain)?

Since chainsaw kickback is such a common occurrence—and a dangerous one—some chains have been designed to minimize this reactive force.

These types of chains are called “anti-kickback” or “low-kickback” chains.

These low-kickback chains work by putting a limit on the amount of wood fiber that can be hooked as the working corner rounds the upper half of the bar (i.e. the kickback zone).

This limitation is accomplished by adding extra metal to the tie straps between the cutting teeth.

This results in the tie strap functioning at a higher depth gauge as it goes around the top of the bar.

Some of the other ways that low-kickback chains reduce the chances of kickback occurring include having drive links with built-in bumpers and ramped depth gauges, which deflect the fiber to a certain extent as the chain travels through the kickback zone.

Your chainsaw can also be equipped with other features to reduce the chances of kickback occurring.

• Chain brake that stops the chain from spinning when a kickback happens.
• Front hand guard to protect your top hand from accidental cuts. This often doubles as the chain brake if you chainsaw has that safety feature.
• Tip guard that’s installed on the front of the chainsaw bar to prevent you from using that area to cut wood.

Summary of Chainsaw Kickback

As you learned, kickback can happen at any time, and withing a split second. Also, chainsaw kickback is the most common type of chainsaw injury that people encouter.

So, it pays to stay safe while operating your tool.

I hope this article answered all of your questions about what is chainsaw kickback, what causes chainsaw kickback, and methods to avoid it.

Happy sawing!