R 408.15136 Hand-held chain saw operations.

Rule 5136. (1) A chain saw operator shall shut off a hand-held saw motor when carrying it for a distance of more than 50 feet (15.2m) or in a hazardous situation. A hand-held chain saw shall be carried so as to prevent an employee from coming in contact with the saw chain or muffler. (2) A chain saw operator shall shut down a chain saw or engage the chain brake when carrying a saw less than 50 feet if conditions, such as the terrain, underbrush, and slippery surfaces, create a hazard for an employee. (3) An approved container shall be used for refueling a hand-held chain saw. A hand-held chain saw shall not be started within 10 feet (3m) of a refueling area. (4) A chain saw shall be fueled not less than 10 feet (3m) from any open flame or other source of ignition. (5) A chain saw operator shall hold a hand-held chain saw with both hands during its use, with thumbs firmly locked around the handles. (6) Before starting a cut, a chain saw operator shall clear away brush and other items that would interfere with the cutting operation or the retreat path. (7) A chain saw operator shall be certain of his or her footing before starting to cut. A chain saw shall not be used in a position or at a distance that could cause the operator to become off-balance, to have insecure footing, or to relinquish a firm grip on the saw. (8) A chain saw operator shall not use a hand-held chain saw to cut directly overhead or in a position which could cause him or her to relinquish a secure grip on the saw. (9) A hand-held chain saw which is purchased after July 2, 1996, and which is used by an employee to perform logging operations shall be equipped with both of the following: (a) A chain brake and a chain designed to reduce kickback. (b) A safety bar and a chain designed to reduce kickback. (10) A chain saw shall be operated and adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction. (11) A chain saw shall be started on the ground or where otherwise firmly supported. A chain saw shall not be drop started. (12) A chain saw shall be shut off or the throttle released before a feller starts to retreat. OTHER SAWS