Are you Competent to Operate a Chainsaw Safely?

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is concerned with the increased number of fatalities involving chainsaws at work. Over the last 5 years 12 persons have suffered a fatal accident arising from the use of chainsaws or tree felling work activities.

The Teagasc National Farm Survey indicates that about 6.5% of all injuries, in the Agriculture & Forestry sector, are chainsaw or wood related indicating that approximately 120 serious injuries occur each year. Self-employed farmers, farm workers and contractors are particularly at risk. These persons may only use chainsaws occasionally and may lack the training, experience and knowledge required for certain tasks.

Chainsaw injuries involve cuts and lacerations to the limbs, neck, head and trunk. The major cause of timber related fatal accidents is being struck by falling trees or branches while felling trees. Appropriate training in chainsaw use and the wearing of suitable protective clothing to protect against these injuries is essential.

If you find you cannot meet the competency/training requirements or don't have all the personal protective equipment for chainsaw work activities, then you must engage the services of a competent chainsaw provider.

November 2013