7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling
6.4
Pushback
WARNING
■ Pushback occurs when the chain on the top of the bar is
suddenly stopped or significantly slowed when it is
pinched, caught or encounters a foreign object in the
wood. The reaction of the chain may drive the saw rapidly
straight back toward the operator, causing loss of control
which, in turn, may cause serious or fatal injury.
■ Pushback usually occurs when the top of the bar is used
for cutting.
■ To reduce the risk of pushback:
– Be alert to forces or situations that may cause
material to pinch or bind the top of the chain.
– Do not cut more than one log at a time.
– Do not twist the chain saw when withdrawing the bar
from an underbuck cut because the chain can pinch
or bind.
– Cut with a sharp, properly tensioned chain.
7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking,
Limbing, Pruning and Felling
7.1
Bucking
Bucking is cutting a log into sections.
0458-573-8621-D
WARNING
■ Be aware of rolling logs. Rolling logs can cause serious or
fatal personal injury. To prevent a log from rolling while
bucking:
– Make sure the log is secure and will not roll downhill
before starting your cut. If necessary, use sturdy
wedges, shims or chocks.
– If on a slope, always stand on the uphill side of the
log.
– Never stand on the log.
■ To reduce the risk of kickback caused by contacting the
nose of the guide bar with other logs or limbs:
– Cut only one log at a time.
– Do not cut logs in a pile.
■ When cutting splintered wood, sharp slivers of wood may
be caught and flung in the direction of the operator of the
saw or bystanders.
– Use caution when cutting splintered wood and
always wear appropriate apparel and personal
protective equipment, including eye protection.
– Keep bystanders out of the work area.
English
25