A chain saw is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as cutting firewood and clearing land. However, operating a chain saw can be five times more dangerous than driving a racecar. Many chain saw accidents are caused by kickback. Kickback is the reactive force that happens when the nose or tip of the guide bar comes in contact with a solid object or is pinched and recoils toward the operator. Saws manufactured since 1985 come equipped with at least three anti-kickback features.
Reactive forces can cause loss of control and result in a serious injury.
One of the easiest ways to prevent injuries is with protective clothing, including a hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, long sleeve shirt, long pants and sturdy boots or shoes. Eye protection is necessary to prevent chips from getting in your eyes. An object the size of a pea traveling at six miles an hour can knock your eyes out, so flying wood chips have the potential to cause even more damage. To reduce the risk of an injury, you should wear goggles or safety glasses with adequate top and side protection. Operating a chain saw for longer than twelve minutes without hearing protection can damage your hearing.