Chainsaws are one of the most dangerous hand-held tools used on construction sites. They can cause catastrophic injuries including deep lacerations, amputations, and fatalities in a fraction of a second. Only operatives holding a valid chainsaw competency certificate for the specific task — felling, cross-cutting, or aerial work — may use a chainsaw on site. Full chainsaw PPE including helmet with visor and hearing protection, chainsaw trousers, and chainsaw boots must be worn for every task.
Key Hazards
Deep lacerations and amputations from chainsaw chain contact at high speed
Kickback throwing the chainsaw towards the operator's head and upper body
Struck by falling timber during felling and limbing operations
Noise and vibration exposure exceeding daily limits during sustained chainsaw use
Control Measures
Ensure the operator holds a valid NPTC or equivalent chainsaw certificate for the specific task.
Wear full chainsaw PPE: helmet with visor, hearing defenders, chainsaw trousers, and chainsaw boots.
Inspect the chainsaw before every use including chain tension, brake function, and throttle return.
Establish a drop zone at least twice the height of the tree before commencing any felling operation.
Never work alone when using a chainsaw — a second person must be within visual and audible contact.
Use the correct cutting technique to minimise kickback risk and maintain control of the saw at all times.
Keep all bystanders and non-essential personnel outside the exclusion zone during chainsaw operations.
Carry a personal first aid kit with large wound dressings suitable for treating chainsaw injuries.
Allow the chain to stop fully before moving between cuts or walking with the chainsaw.
Emergency / Rescue
For a chainsaw injury, apply a large wound dressing with direct pressure to control severe bleeding. Call 999 immediately. Keep the casualty still and warm. Chainsaw wounds bleed heavily and the casualty may go into shock rapidly.
Remember
Chainsaws can cause fatal injuries in a fraction of a second — full PPE is mandatory for every cut.
Only operatives with a valid NPTC chainsaw certificate may use a chainsaw on a construction site.
Kickback is the most common cause of serious chainsaw injury and occurs without warning.
Chainsaw trousers contain fibres that jam the chain on contact — they are not optional equipment.
Never work alone with a chainsaw and always have a second person within visual contact.
The exclusion zone around chainsaw operations must be maintained for all bystanders at all times.
Applicable Legislation: PUWER 1998 · AFAG Safety Guides · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · CDM Regulations 2015