Learner Guide: Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance

Learner Guide
Chainsaw Safety and

Maintenance
LS-MT-102E-1
WSQ Higher Certificate in Landscape Operations
Photo credit: Tan Yoke Sim

Cyperus papyrus
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Course Overview ...................................................................................................... 1
Competency Element 1 ............................................................................................ 4
PC 1.1 ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Learning activity 1 ............................................................................................................................... 6
PC 1.2 ................................................................................................................................................. 7
PC 1.3 ............................................................................................................................................... 11
Learning activity 2 ............................................................................................................................. 13
PC 1.4 ............................................................................................................................................... 14
PC 1.5 ............................................................................................................................................... 15
Competency Element 2 .......................................................................................... 16
PC 2.1 ............................................................................................................................................... 17
PC 2.2 ............................................................................................................................................... 19
PC 2.3 ............................................................................................................................................... 23
PC 2.4 ............................................................................................................................................... 26
PC 3.1 ............................................................................................................................................... 28
PC 3.2 ............................................................................................................................................... 29
PC 3.3 ............................................................................................................................................... 30
PC 3.4 ............................................................................................................................................... 31
PC 3.5 ............................................................................................................................................... 32
PC 3.6 ............................................................................................................................................... 33
PC 3.7 ............................................................................................................................................... 34
PC 3.8 ............................................................................................................................................... 36
PC 4.1 ............................................................................................................................................... 38
PC 4.2 ............................................................................................................................................... 39
PC 4.3 ............................................................................................................................................... 40
PC 4.4 ............................................................................................................................................... 42
PC 4.5 ............................................................................................................................................... 43
PC 4.6 ............................................................................................................................................... 44
Assessment information ....................................................................................... 45
Reference material ................................................................................................. 45
Annex 1 - Learning activity 1 ................................................................................. 46
Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

1
Course Overview
Industry
Landscaping
Competency Category
Machinery and Tools
Purpose and Focus

On successful completion of this unit, the participant
will have the knowledge and skills to perform the safe
handling and maintenance of chainsaws, including
the sharpening of chains in accordance with
workplace safety and health regulations, which
includes pre-start and post operation checks of a
chainsaw
Brief Description of Competency Unit

This Competency Unit specifies the skills and
knowledge required by people to operate in the field
of the Singapore Landscape industry in a WSQ Level
1 position.
The competency unit contains the following elements:
CE1 Apply safe work practices required when

handling, maintaining and operating a chainsaw
CE2 Recognising types and identifying components
of chainsaws
CE3 Perform routine pre-start checks and post use
maintenance
CE4 Sharpen chain and components
Training Duration
24 hours (3 days @ 8 hours per day) inclusive of 2.5
hrs of assessment.

2
Target Group
This course aims to provide people already working
or wishing to enter the landscape industry with the
skills and knowledge required to operate and maintain
chainsaws effectively and safely within the relevant
landscape industry subsectors.
The Competency Unit would be appropriate for

people with job titles such as:
• Senior Tree Care Technician.
Teaching Methodologies
• Workplace delivery / practices
• Demonstration
• Practice
• Visit to workplace
• Industry expert / guest speaker
• Observation and feedback
• Case study
• Programme text
• Computer aided instructions
• Lecture presentation
• Group discussion.
Whenever this symbol appears in the Learner Guide

and PowerPoint presentation, it signifies time for a
Learning Activity in any of the above formats.
Assessment Methodology
All the competency elements, performance criteria
and underpinning knowledge in the competency
standard will be assessed. The assessment may
consist of a combination of any of the following
methods:
• Practical demonstration
• Oral questioning.
The participant would be assessed by an independent
assessor after the duration of this course.

3
Participant Prerequisites
Below are the recommended minimum participant
prerequisites for entry into this training programme.
These prerequisites have been verified as essential
to successful performance in the programme and on
the job. The course is intended for individuals who
may not have background experience within the
landscape industries, but who are interested to learn
the basic skills in doing so. Entry into the programme
without one or more of the following prerequisites may
affect a participant’s chances of success in the
training programme and on the job.
Assumed skills and knowledge

The skills and knowledge for this unit which the
participant is assumed to possess are as follows:
• Identify and use arboricultural tools used in

industry
• Able to listen and speak English at proficiency
level equivalent to the Employability Skills System
Workplace Literacy (WPL) Level 3
• Able to read and write English at a proficiency
level equivalent to Employability Skills System
Workplace Literacy (WPL) Level 3
• Able to use Numeracy skills equivalent to the
Employability Skills System Workplace Numeracy
(WPN) Level 3.

4
Competency Element 1
Apply safe work practices required when
handling, maintaining and operating a
chainsaw
Underpinning Knowledge
A competent individual will acquire the following
knowledge:
• Workplace safety and health practices relevant to

safe use
• International standards and relevant PPE
• Hazards and other issues of chainsaw operation
Performance Criteria
A competent individual must be able to successfully
perform the following:
1.1 Recognise and apply workplace safety and

health (WSH) requirements relevant to the
maintenance and operation of chainsaws at
ground level according to organisational
procedures
1.2 Recognise the hazards of operating a chainsaw
1.3 Demonstrate correct fitting and use of personal
protective equipment used during operation of
chainsaws
1.4 Report procedures on chainsaw faults /
malfunctions
1.5 Record checks and maintenance of chainsaws

5
Range and context
PC 1.1
Recognise and apply workplace safety and health
(WSH) requirements relevant to the maintenance
and operation of chainsaws at ground level
according to organisational procedures
Using chainsaws is potentially a very dangerous

exercise that can cause serious injury or even death.
Before starting any dangerous activity you need to
check your equipment, Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) and hazards. Part of that process is
hazard identification.
What are on-site toolbox meetings?

Pre-work site safety assessment or toolbox meetings
are on-site job planning sessions. Typically they are
relatively short and are normally run by the supervisor
(who may or may not remain on-site).
Toolbox meetings are job specific and require

everyone working on the site to be involved. Most
companies have a risk assessment form that is filled
out and signed by everyone involved. (See an
example in Annex 1.)
Tailgate sessions are held to:
• Create work progression (the order of work)

• Assign roles (who is doing what)
• Identify hazards
• Identify safety zones
• Document that everyone was aware of what was
involved.
By signing a risk assessment form you are confirming
that you’re aware of what was said, so listen and be
involved.
Managing hazards
For all hazards you need to:
1. Identify the hazard.

2. Assess the hazard.
3. Manage the hazard.

6
Learning activity 1
Please complete the following activity.
In groups of 3 or 4 please read and then complete the

example Risk Assessment Form (Annex 1), as if you
were part of a work team on site.
Hazard management
Follow these three key steps to manage a hazard:
1. Identify the hazard.

2. Assess the hazard.
3. Manage the hazard.
The hierarchy of hazard management:
4. Elimination
5. Substitution
6. Engineering controls
7. Administrative controls
8. Personal protective equipment

7
PC 1.2
Recognise the hazards of operating a chainsaw
This section covers common hazards that you can

face when operating a chainsaw.
Kickback (the most serious)

The greatest hazard when working with a chainsaw
occurs if your saw kicks back. Kickback can happen
if something contacts the upper quadrant of the tip of
the bar, or if you try to cut with the upper quadrant of
the bar tip. The bar tip will then try to climb upwards,
and the saw will be thrown backwards by the force of
the rotating chain.

8
A full kickback event is so violent that it’s not possible

for you to take evasive action. If your head, neck or
shoulders are in line with the plane of the bar, you will
certainly be struck by it. At this point, you would have
to rely on the chain brake and protective clothing to
save you from injury or worse.
Always make sure the bar tip does not contact

anything and never try to cut with the kickback sector
of the bar.
Follow these precautions to avoid kickback:
• Keep a secure grip on the chainsaw at all times.

• Take particular care when cutting small limbs or
light material that may catch in the chain.
• Do not over reach or cut above shoulder height.
• Use extreme caution when re-entering a cut.
• Cut only one log at a time.
• Correctly maintain your chainsaw.
• Check that safety devices are working.
• Make sure the chain is tensioned, sharpened and
depth gauges are set to the manufacturer's
specification.
Saw swings downward towards the operator
when cutting
When the cut is almost finished, reduce speed to
avoid a sudden finish with loss of balance, or the
guide bar and chain hitting the ground, other objects
or possibly following through and connecting with you.
Operator contact with the blade as the chain

continues to rotate
Coming into contact with a moving chain is potentially
going to be a serious accident or fatality.
To avoid that contact use your PPE as instructed and

only operate the saw once you are fully trained in
using it.

9
Push-back throws the saw back towards the

operator
Performing an up cut uses the upper part of the bar.
The chain's reactive force will push the chainsaw
away from the cut and towards you. There is a risk of
kickback if the chainsaw is pushed far enough away
from the cut for the nose of the bar to ride out of the
cut.
Saw malfunction (such as a broken chain)

Before using any chainsaw, thoroughly inspect all
safety features and other parts of the saw.
Do not use the saw if any parts are:
• Damaged
• Ineffective
• Loose
• Not in working order.
Losing control of the saw
Follow these steps to avoid losing control:
9. Place your left hand on the front handle and

make sure you grip the handle between your
thumb and finger, with your thumb under the
handle.
10. Use your right hand to grip the rear handle, with
your index finger on the throttle trigger.
11. Keep control of the chainsaw while the motor is
running by keeping a firm grip with both hands.
Also:
• Keep your feet firmly planted slightly apart in a

balanced position. Do not over-reach. Move your
feet closer to the cutting position.
• Hold the chainsaw close to your body with the
chainsaw powerhead close to the cut for better
control. Slightly bent arms will improve your
control over the chainsaw.
• Position yourself to the side of the intended cut to
lessen the chance of injury from kickback.
• Never use the chainsaw with one hand as you can
easily lose control over it.

10
Fall while using or carrying chainsaw

It is potentially dangerous if you carry the saw
incorrectly and have not engaged the chain brake. In
some cases chainsaw users have fallen over and
landed on their chainsaw. You risk falling onto your
saw with the chain moving at high speed if you don’t
engage the chain brake and carry the saw gripping
the throttle lockout.
When carrying a chainsaw always engage the chain

brake and move your rear hand off the throttle and the
lockout.
Operator struck by falling object.

You must wear PPE, such as safety helmets, to
reduce the risk from being struck from overhead
objects. Workers aloft should always give audible
(easy to hear) warnings to advise of falling debris. In
any felling operation you must inspect the area before
and after the operation to assess any risk from
dislodged debris.
Log or branch moving or rolling after being

cut
During ground operations there is always a risk that
the log or branch will be manipulated during cutting.
Always stand on the uphill side of the logs while

cutting and maintain a good body position to allow for
any log or branch movement.

11
PC 1.3
Demonstrate correct fitting and use of personal
protective equipment used during operation of
chainsaws
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

A chainsaw operator must not only make sure their
machine is in safe operating condition but must also
wear protective clothing for optimum protection.
Wearing PPE minimises the risk of:
• Cuts from the moving chain

• Damaging your hearing from the loud noise made
by the saw
• Flying material getting in your eyes
• Crush injury to the feet
• Not being seen.
PPE items
The following items are the minimum recommended
PPE for chainsaw use.
Head protection (safety helmet)

You need to wear an industrial safety helmet at all
times as protection from failing material, and reduce
injuries from kickback.
Leg protection (cut resistant trousers/chaps)

These are vital as the saw’s chain travels at over 25
meters per second. Leg protectors in a variety of
Kevlar and nylon are most effective in preventing cuts
to your legs

12
Ear Protection (ear muffs/ear plugs)

All operators and assistants should wear suitable ear
protection. As chainsaws operate around 100-110
dB(A) at the operator's ear, you need to carefully
consider the strength of the ear protector you are
using. Aim for grade 4 or above.
The noise generated by a chainsaw (when in

operation) can be deafening, and typically exceeds
the Permissible Exposure Level (PEL).
Workers should not be exposed to noise levels

exceeding 85 dBA for 8 hours a day (or equivalent).
To curb such excessive noise production, chainsaws

are provided with mufflers that are Grade 4 or above,
to help reduce noise levels.
Eye protection (goggles/glasses/mesh and

Perspex screens)
The chain on the saw rotates at more than 90 km/h,
so chips and material can be flung at the operator's
eyes at very high speed.
High visibility vest (hi vis vest)

You need to wear these in situations where it is
essential to be visible to both your co-workers and the
public.
Safety footwear (safety boots)

These should be leather with steel toe caps, non-slip
deep tread soles, laces and they should cover the
ankles.
Hand protection (gloves/mittens)

As well as protecting hands from cuts, abrasions, etc.
they can help prevent vibration-induced problems
such as Raynaud's Disease.
Sun protection
Sun-block should be available on each worksite along
with snoods or helmets.

13
Learning activity 2
Look at this picture and describe below it how you

think the chainsaw pants have managed to stop the
chainsaw chain from spinning?

14
PC 1.4
Report procedures on chainsaw

faults/malfunctions
Never operate a chainsaw that is damaged, not
properly adjusted to the manufacturer's
recommendations, incorrectly assembled or has parts
missing – especially safety devices.
Any defective saws or ones with missing or lose parts

should be fixed immediately. If they cannot be
repaired straight away, tag the saw (put tag over
throttle lockout) to make sure other people do not use
the saw.
Do not use a saw if any of these apply:
• The saw chain does not remain stationary when

the motor is idling.
• The saw will not idle correctly.
• The guide bar, handles or controls are loose.
• Any safety features are not working.

15
PC 1.5
Record checks and maintenance of chainsaws
It is essential that you check parts of your chainsaw

on a regular basis to ensure it works at its best and
makes you more productive and safe.
It is good practice to record checks and maintenance

so there is evidence of good care
Here is an example:
Daily checks Daily maintenance

Check throttle trigger is Clean the chain brake and
working check its function
Check function of the oiler Clean or replace the air filter
Check the chain tension Turn the guide bar
Check for loose nuts and Clean the oiler hole and
screws adjust the oiler if required
Ensure the chain catcher is Sharpen the chain
not damaged
Clean the guide bar groove
File burrs off the guide bar
Clean the cooling air inlets
Periodic checks Periodic maintenance

Check the anti-vibration Lubricate the clutch drum
mounts are not worn bearing
Check for burrs and file off Clean spark plug and check
gap
Check starter and starter Clean cooling fins on the
cord for wear and damage cylinder
Clean the carburettor body
and air box
Clean or change the screen
in the muffler as required
Check that the chain is sharpened and tensioned to

the manufacturer's instructions. When the cutters are
sharp, with correct angle and depth gauge settings,
the chain does the work. If the chain is incorrectly
sharpened and maintained, you work harder by
having to force the chainsaw into the cut.

16
Recognising types and identifying
components of chainsaws
knowledge:
• Recognise the types of chainsaws

• Identify components to enable maintenance
• Identify safety features of chainsaws
• Chainsaw maintenance and tool box
2.1 Recognise types of chainsaws

2.2 Identify the components of chainsaws
2.3 Identify the safety features included on
chainsaws
2.4 List the tools required in a chainsaw
maintenance toolbox

17
Range and context
PC 2.1
Recognise types of chainsaws
Four common types of chainsaws are outlined here.
Pole saw
Pole saws are used to cut at heights from the ground,
they are useful for low pruning when climbing or an
elevated work platform is not an option.
There are two main disadvantages of using a pole

saw:
• Often the debris has a tendency to fall on the

operator.
• It can be difficult to make accurate pruning cuts.
Electric cord or battery powered saws

Electric saws are not often used in commercial
operations as they need a constant source of power,
which is not always available.
Battery powered saws are becoming more popular

with tree workers because of their reduced noise as
well as environmental considerations. However
reduction in power is the compromise with a battery
operated saw.

18
Rear handle saw (conventional)

This petrol powered chainsaw is the most commonly
used ground saw. You operate it with your left hand
on the front handle and rear hand at the back handle
of the saw.
Top handle saw

As the name suggests the handle is on the top of this
chainsaw. It is used by workers aloft, such as
climbing. This saw should not be used as a ground
saw.

19
PC 2.2
Identify the components of chainsaws
The following photos can help you identify the parts

of a chainsaw. These components can need
maintenance.
• Starter mechanism:
• Clutch:
• Clutch springs:

20
• Chain, cutter bar:
• Decompression button:
• Power head:
• Choke:

21
• Rim sprocket:
• Spur sprocket:
• Air filter:
• Chain oiling mechanism:

22
• Spark plug:
• Side cover:
• Carburettor:

23
PC 2.3
Identify the safety features included on
chainsaws
Here are the common safety features found on

chainsaws.
On/off switch
Make sure your chainsaw has a clearly marked on/off
switch.
Chain Brake
Chain brakes prevent movement of the saw's cutting
chain by applying a steel brake band around the
driven clutch drum. A powerful spring provides the
clamping force for the brake band.
The chain brake can:
• Be used to secure the chain when changing

position, moving between cuts or during starting
procedures
• Activate under kickback conditions to prevent the
operator from being struck by a running chain.
You push the top-hand guard forward to engage the
brake, and pulled back to disengage. The spring-
loaded action allows powerful braking under
emergency conditions and can halt a chain under full
power in a fraction of a second.
As well as being deliberately activated by the

operator, the brake can engage automatically by the
force of a kickback event.
Many models also incorporate a link between the top

handle and the chain brake trigger, which applies the
brake if the saw's bar is forced suddenly upwards.
This is known as an "inertia" chain brake and allows
the chain brake to activate even if the operator's left
hand does not make physical contact with the chain
brake.
Chain Catcher
If the saw chain is not maintained properly it may jump
off or break. The chain catcher is designed to protect
you by catching the chain from flying backwards.

24
Anti-vibration mounts
Chainsaw operators can develop hand-arm vibration
syndrome (HAVS), or white finger, if exposed to
excessive vibration over long periods. This is a
potentially permanent and debilitating industrial
injury.
Both metal springs and rubber bushes can be used to

provide suspension. Metal springs are more robust
and longer wearing, but rubber bushes provide
damping in addition to a spring action.
Throttle lock out

This mechanism prevents accidental throttle
operation. As an additional safety feature you must
activate the throttle lock to operate the throttle.
When carrying a saw it is recommended you place

your hand behind the throttle lock out – to avoid
accidentally operating the throttle if you fall or trip.
Rear hand guard

The rear hand guard protects your right hand from
being struck by a snapped or derailed chain. It also
allows you to hold down the rear of the saw with your
boot for starting it. This is especially useful for cold
engines, and for operators who physically struggle to
start a saw using the warm start method.
Muffler
The muffler-exhaust system is designed to reduce the
amount of chainsaw noise. It is also designed to direct
fumes away from the operator when used normally.
Spark arrester
This is a screen integrated within the muffler, which is
a used to minimise the fire risk from sparks that could
be discharged from the chainsaw.

25
Learning activity 3
List all of the parts marked on this chainsaw:
A:
B:
C:
D:
E:
F:
G:
H:
I:
J:
K:
L:
M:
N:
O:
P:

26
PC 2.4
List the tools required in a chainsaw
maintenance toolbox
There are a range of essential tools for maintaining

chainsaws. These include chainsaw files, hammer
and screwdrivers.
• Files
You use various files to sharpen and maintain your
chain.
Left to right: flat file, file holder, round files and file
guides.
• Chainsaw hammer
This tool is essential for removing bar nuts,

maintaining spark plug and adjusting the chain
tension.
• Turning screwdriver
These are for making air/fuel idle adjustments.

27
Perform routine pre start checks and post
use maintenance
knowledge:
• Routine pre-start checks

• Post operational checks
• Maintenance schedules /plans/diaries
3.1 Select tools and materials required for

maintenance
3.2 Complete daily routine prestart checks
completed in accordance with instruction
manual
3.3 Remove bar and chain, clean, rectify simple
faults and reassemble
3.4 Adjust chain to correct tension according to
model specification
3.5 Oil and refuel saw using safe working
procedures
3.6 Perform post operational check
3.7 Start chainsaw to check operation
3.8 Record checking and maintaining of chainsaws
upon completion according to maintenance
diary

28
Range and context
PC 3.1
Select tools and materials required for
maintenance
The tools you need for maintaining chainsaws (as

described earlier) include, a chainsaw spanner,
sharpening files, flat files and appropriate gauges to
aid in sharpening.
Other maintenance tools you could also use include:
• Bar wrenches specific to chainsaw models –

these are usually included in starter packs with
new saws
• Stump vice
• Screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Flat file.
Work benches, air hoses and permanent vices are
useful when carrying out maintenance on chainsaws.

29
PC 3.2
Complete daily routine prestart checks
completed in accordance with instruction
manual
Before carrying out any work with your chainsaw, your

routine prestart checks must include the following
precautions:
• A full check of all safety devices.

• Make sure there are no parts that are loose,
damaged or ineffective.
• There is enough fuel and oil to do the job.
• You are at least three metres away from your
refuelling site.
• There are no people or obstructions nearby that
could get hurt by, or caught in, the chain.
• You are standing on a level or secure piece of
ground.

30
PC 3.3
Remove bar and chain, clean, rectify simple
faults and reassemble
After removing the chain and bar you need to check,

clean and turn the bar (to avoid excess wear one
side). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean the bar to make sure there is adequate

lubrication being passed to the chain:
• Use a bar cleaning tool to clean the bar channels

• Always start from the tip of the bar and work back
towards the rear of the bar. This is to help reduce
debris getting caught in the tip of the bar.
• Check the bar for wear, and dress it (using a flat
file) according to the manufacturer’s
specifications.

31
PC 3.4
Adjust chain to correct tension according to
model specification
It is important to adjust the chain to the correct tension

specified for the particular model you are using.
Always make the adjustment according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Learning activity 4
Your instructor will demonstrate the way to adjust the

chain to the correct tension on your chainsaw. Carry
out the same operation to show that you fully
understand what is required in getting the correct
tension.

32
PC 3.5
Oil and refuel saw using safe working
procedures
Chainsaws usually require two-stroke fuel for

operation. Some models run on different mixes of
petrol to two stroke oil. Always check the user guide
or manual to identify the correct mix of two-stroke to
petrol for your model of chainsaw.
If you are at all unsure on the mix of two-stroke –

check first. Also if two-stroke oil is missing from your
fuel, do not use this fuel for your chainsaws. Many
chainsaws engines have seized or blown up from
using incorrect mixes of two-stroke.
Bar lubrication is needed to reduce the amount of

heat generated from the chain spinning around the
bar. Only use only approved bar lubrication/oil as it
has the required viscosity (it is stickier) than some
other types of oils. It is possible to find
environmentally friendly bar lubrication that is
biodegradable.
Always remember to check the fuel and oil levels

before operating your chainsaw.
How to oil and refuel the chainsaw

Follow these safe working procedures to oil and refuel
your saw:
12. Turn the saw off to refuel – always refuel at least

three metres away from the worksite.
13. Allow the saw time to cool down
14. Always fill up on even ground. (Never smoke
while refuelling.)
15. Fill the bar lubrication oil first then two-stroke
mix.
16. Take care to clean up any spills of fuel or oil.

33
PC 3.6
Perform post operational check
After you have finished using a chainsaw:
• Check that there are no parts that have become

loose or are not working.
• Examine the chain tension as this may have
changed during operation and adjust it if
necessary.
• If required sharpen the chain and adjust the depth
gauges.

34
PC 3.7
Start chainsaw to check operation
There are two methods for starting a chainsaw – cold

start and warm start.
Cold start method:

17. Get into the correct position (see the diagram
below).
18. Place the saw firmly on the ground.
19. Open the choke.
20. Start with short sharp pulls on the starter cord.
21. When the motor fires close the choke until the
motor is going.
22. Release the throttle control trigger.

35
Warm start method:

23. Get into the correct position (see the diagram
below).
24. Start with short sharp pulls on the starter cord.
25. If the saw doesn’t start use the cold start
technique.

36
PC 3.8
Record checking and maintaining of chainsaws
upon completion according to maintenance diary
It can be useful to record any checks and

maintenance of chainsaws in a diary. This allows a
new user to easily understand what has been
previously carried out on a chainsaw.
Learning activity 5
Chainsaw
Check cycle Task / to do
part
Chain brake
For example:
• Lubricate drum bearing
Clutch drum Weekly • Check clutch drum &
springs for wear
Starter
mechanism
Air filter
Spark plug
Spark
arrestor

37
Sharpen chain and components
knowledge:
• Reasons for sharpening

• Tools for sharpening
• Cutter shapes
• Common filing angles
• Procedure when filing, setting depth gauge and
cleaning chain gullets
4.1 Identify the different types of chainsaw chains

4.2 Identify the different types of cutter shapes
4.3 Sharpen chainsaw chain to manufacturer’s
specifications
4.4 Check and adjust depth gauges to
manufacturer’s specifications
4.5 Clean chain gullets
4.6 Report irregularities and faults to supervisor

38
Range and context
PC 4.1
Identify the different types of chainsaw chains
Chain size is measured in three components:
• Length –determined by the number of drive links

and its pitch and gauge.
• Pitch – a chain and sprocket measurement. This
determines if a chain and sprocket match. Chain
pitch is the distance between any three
consecutive rivets divided by two. The chain and
sprocket pitch must match.
• Gauge – the width of the groove in the guide bar
and the thickness of the drive tangs on the chain.
The gauge of the bar and the chain must match.
Here are some examples of different types of chain:
Low kick back chain

39
PC 4.2
Identify the different types of cutter shapes
These are four common cutter shapes:

40
PC 4.3
Sharpen chainsaw to manufacturer’s
specifications
When sharpening your chainsaw you need to file the

cutting teeth on the chain to three different angles:
filing angle, side plate angle and top plate cutting
angle.
The angles vary depending on the type of chain you

have. If you use a filing gauge you do not need to think
about the different angles to ensure a good result.
Just follow the instructions and you will get the right
angles on the cutting tooth.

41
Follow these six steps to sharpen a chainsaw:
26. Start with the cutting teeth. Use the round file
and filing gauge designed for the type of chain
that you have.
27. Place the filing gauge on the chain. The arrows
on the gauge should point in the chain’s
direction of rotation (towards the nose wheel).
Make sure the gauge has contact with the chain.
28. File with both hands. Place the file at a 90-
degree angle in relation to the rollers on the filing
gauge. The file should rest on both rollers. The
filing angle is then 25–35 degrees depending on
the type of chain. File the cutting tooth away
from you with smooth strokes.
29. Now proceed to file every other tooth. Each
cutting tooth is to be filed so that it is sharp. It is
important that all the cutting teeth are of equal
length.
30. Once you have finished filing all the cutting teeth
on one side, loosen the vice and then attach the
guide bar from the other direction.
31. Sharpen the cutting teeth in the same way from
the opposite direction.
When do you need to replace the chain?

It is time to replace the chain when the longest portion
of the cutting tooth is less than 4 mm or if you find
cracks.

42
PC 4.4
Check and adjust depth gauges to
manufacturer’s specifications
The height difference between the position of the

depth gauge and the tip of the tooth (depth gauge
clearance) determines how much the cutting tooth will
cut.
It works much like a plane. When the plane is set up

with minimal cutting blades, it takes a very little
amount of wood. The same thing happens with the
saw chain if the distance between the depth gauge
clearance lip and the tip of the tooth is too small.
Also if the depth gauge clearance lip has been filed

down too much – the cutting tooth will cut too deeply
into the wood. This causes the cut to be more
aggressive with high vibrations. The risk of kickback
increases and the chainsaw is exposed to
unnecessary stress.
The way to check and adjust depth gauge:
Here is a close-up view showing how the depth gauge

works by exposing only the required amount of cutter
to the material being cut:

43
PC 4.5
Clean chain gullets
To make sure there is good chip flow from your chain

it is sometimes necessary to clean the chain gullets.
Clean out the gullets after every fifth time you sharpen
the chain. A clean gullet opens up the area for chip
removal which in turn allows for better side plate
cutting action.
Gullets form when square ground chisel cutter teeth

are sharpened. They don't usually occur with round
filing or grinding, because it is easy to remove them
during the sharpening process.
When gullets are allowed to get long, they make it

difficult for the sharp cutter to get at the wood. This
makes it difficult for the chain to feed. Here is the
reason: Every time a cutter tooth is sharpened, it gets
shorter. As the tooth becomes shorter, the "set" or the
amount the cutter sticks out beyond its chassis is
reduced, too. Gullets retain their set and if allowed to
get too long, they rub in the cut. Also, long gullets
impede chip flow.

44
PC 4.6
Report irregularities and faults to supervisor
Chainsaws are hazardous tools and using a saw that

has irregularities or faults increases the chance of
injury or fatality.
Learning activity 6
Answer the following questions.
32. What should you do if you find your chainsaw

has a fault?
33. What should your supervisor do once you have

made them aware of any faults?

45
Assessment information
The trainer may use oral questions to check the trainees underpinning knowledge of
the competency elements (if required).
Competency Element Assessment Activity Assessment Method
1. CE 1 Apply safe work

Participants will be briefed on Assessment may be conducted
practices required
the assessment requirements through oral questioning,
when handling,
and process on the first day of practical demonstration, or a
maintaining and
course summative blend of the above
operating a chainsaw
2. CE 2 Recognising Participants will be briefed on Assessment may be conducted

types and identifying the assessment requirements through oral questioning,
components of and process on the second day practical demonstration, or a
chainsaws of course summative blend of the above

3. CE 3 Perform routine
the assessment requirements through oral questioning,
pre-start checks and
and process on the third day of practical demonstration, or a
post use maintenance

4. CE 4 Sharpen chain the assessment requirements through oral questioning,
and components and process on the third day of practical demonstration, or a
Reference material
• WSH Council, Workplace Safety and Health Guidelines, Landscape and
Horticulture Management, Singapore, Section 3.5 Operation of chainsaw
• Department of Labour approved Code of Practice for safety and health in

arboriculture 2012 - (New Zealand)
• Australian Standard AS 2727-1997, Chainsaws – guide to safe working practices
• NZS 5819:1982 Chainsaw safety: Part 1: Code of Practice for safe use of petrol
and electrical chainsaws
• Approved code of practice for safety and health in forest operations 2012 (New
Zealand)

46
Annex 1 - Learning activity 1

Risk Assessment (RA) Form

Company A Tree Company RA conducted by: Joe Bloggs/Senior Arborist /
Work task/location Above ground pruning from (name/designation/date)
EWP
Approved by: Joe Bloggs / Senior Arborist / Last review 25/01/15 Next review date As required, or work
(name/designation/date) date conditions change
1 – Hazard Identification 2 - Risk evaluation 3 - Risk control

1a 1b Work 1c Identified risk 1d Possible 2a Existing risk control (if any) 2b 2c 2d Risk 3a Additional 3b Action
No. activity of harm accident / causal Severity Likelihood rating risk control designation
agent
1 Work plan Mis- Various injury to Site supervisor to brief crew Minor Remote Low Toolbox Site
communication or workers as result on proposed work plan before meeting held supervisor
confusion over of not following commencement of work each to brief all
task to be work plan day. Operations performed by workers on
performed procedure trained /experienced RA & work
personnel only plan
2 Protect Members of Members of the Barricade the work area prior Minor Remote Low Install Site
public public entering public being to commencement of the work; appropriate supervisor /
safety work zone struck by falling ensure barricade allows for the signage and groundsman
debris or safe passage of pedestrians barriers to
objects, exposed around the worksite. Assign direct
to machinery in one worker to be in charge of members of
use public safety the public
3 Pre- Tension or Kick-back or Chainsaw operator to conduct Major Remote Medium Toolbox EWP
sawing compression other chainsaw thorough inspection of ground meeting held Operator
fallen identified - reaction – and wood to be cut for best to brief all
timber sloping or uneven steady level footing and awareness of any workers on
inspection ground beneath ground tension or compression in RA & work
material to be cut (topography) fallen timber. Move any wood plan
to better ground if appropriate

47
Using the above examples as reference, complete the last 3 task assessments below in groups of 3 or 4.
1 – Hazard Identification 2 - Risk evaluation 3 - Risk control

1a 1b Work 1c Identified risk 1d Possible 2a Existing risk control (if any) 2b 2c 2d Risk 3a Additional 3b Action
No. activity of harm accident / causal Severity Likelihood rating risk control designation
agent
4 Access
and move
around
tree from
an EWP
5 Perform
pruning of
tree from
an EWP
6 Use
chainsaw
to prune
tree from
an EWP
Key
Likelihood Severity Remote (R) Occasional (O) Frequent

(F)
Major (Ma) M H H
Moderate (Mo) L M H
Minor (Mi) L L M
H=High Risk, M=Medium Risk, L=Low Risk

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Learner Guide

Chainsaw Safety and

WSQ Higher Certificate in Landscape Operations

Photo credit: Tan Yoke Sim

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Purpose and Focus

Brief Description of Competency Unit

The competency unit contains the following elements:

CE1 Apply safe work practices required when

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

The Competency Unit would be appropriate for

• Senior Tree Care Technician.

Whenever this symbol appears in the Learner Guide

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Assumed skills and knowledge

• Identify and use arboricultural tools used in

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

• Workplace safety and health practices relevant to

1.1 Recognise and apply workplace safety and

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Range and context

Using chainsaws is potentially a very dangerous

What are on-site toolbox meetings?

Toolbox meetings are job specific and require

Tailgate sessions are held to:

• Create work progression (the order of work)

1. Identify the hazard.

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Please complete the following activity.

In groups of 3 or 4 please read and then complete the

1. Identify the hazard.

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

This section covers common hazards that you can

Kickback (the most serious)

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

A full kickback event is so violent that it’s not possible

Always make sure the bar tip does not contact

Follow these precautions to avoid kickback:

• Keep a secure grip on the chainsaw at all times.

Operator contact with the blade as the chain

To avoid that contact use your PPE as instructed and

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Push-back throws the saw back towards the

Saw malfunction (such as a broken chain)

Do not use the saw if any parts are:

9. Place your left hand on the front handle and

• Keep your feet firmly planted slightly apart in a

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Fall while using or carrying chainsaw

When carrying a chainsaw always engage the chain

Operator struck by falling object.

Log or branch moving or rolling after being

Always stand on the uphill side of the logs while

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wearing PPE minimises the risk of:

• Cuts from the moving chain

Head protection (safety helmet)

Leg protection (cut resistant trousers/chaps)

Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance LS-MT-102E-1 V2 (2017)

Ear Protection (ear muffs/ear plugs)

The noise generated by a chainsaw (when in

Workers should not be exposed to noise levels