CHAINSAW OPERATOR 1 STUDENT MANUAL

CHAINSAW OPERATOR 1

STUDENT MANUAL

CHAINSAW OPERATIONS – SAWYER 1

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COURSE OBJECTIVES

This course is designed to establish a baseline standard for professional and safe chainsaw operations for TEAM RUBICON’s volunteer disaster responders. It is recognized that many TEAM RUBICON members come with a wealth of prior chainsaw knowledge and experience. This course serves as an introduction to prepare a novice for serving as a Chainsaw Operator 1 on the disaster ground. At the conclusion of this course, you will be able to:

Understand all requirements on chainsaw personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety standards. Safely strip, service, fuel, lubricate, and sharpen a chainsaw. Prepare a safe work site. Develop and communicate a cut and safety plan. Understand the hazards unique to the disaster ground as they pertain to chainsaw operations. Understand hot and cold starting procedures. Buck and limb under supervision. Perform a tension relief cut, a back cut, and a face cut under supervision.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This course is intended for any TEAM RUBICON member who is eligible for deployment and desires to be trained to operate chainsaws under the supervision of a team leader in the field.

COURSE PREREQUISITES

Prior to attending the in-person Chainsaw Operations 1 course, participants must have a fully updated Roll Call profile and have completed all components of online training Module 1, Pre-deployment Basic, as well as the pre-assigned introduction to TEAM RUBICON Chainsaw Operations within Roll Call.

ASSESSMENT

Participants will demonstrate course learning outcomes through review of “skill drills” after each unit and a written examination at the end of the course. Skill drill tasks are in the appendix of the student manual and need to be signed off by both the student and the instructor.

DETERMINING COMPETENCY

Skill Drills: Participants must demonstrate they can complete hands-on tasks in accordance with the standards outlined in the course. Each participant must demonstrate the correct procedure before being allowed to pass on to the next unit. Each of the practical skills units ends with a Skill Drill.

Written Examinations: Pre-test completed prior to course start. Final exam score of 80% or higher to pass the class.

Field Task Books: As participants progress through each skill demonstration, they must sign off on that section in their Field Task Book. A participant should only sign off on each task once he or she is comfortable with the given skill. An instructor will also endorse each section.

Failing: Participants that fail the course are not restricted from retaking the course unless due to attitude or safety violations.


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COURSE OUTLINE Day 1

Unit 1: Course Intro

Unit 2: PPE

Unit 3: The Chainsaw

Unit 4: Maintenance

Day 2

Unit 5: Chainsaw Operations

Unit 6: Starting the Saw

Unit 7: Cuts and Directional Felling

Unit 8: Examination

Complete Skill Task # 1


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UNIT 1 - COURSE INTRO UNIT OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this unit is to provide you with background knowledge and explain the overall approach of TEAM RUBICON’s (TR’s) chainsaw training program. This unit also outlines the instructor’s expectations to allow you to contribute to a successful course delivery.

TR CHAINSAW PROGRAM HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY

Operation Starting Gun was TR’s response to the tornado that swept through Moore, Oklahoma in spring of 2013. It was TR’s largest domestic operation to-date and was the first to involve dedicated chainsaw strike teams. We learned a lot of lessons on that operation, and those lessons sparked a debate on the form our chainsaw curriculum should take. A few things were evident to us:

There is no shortage of hard-charging, A+ types among our ranks. We are an energetic and passionate bunch.

Personnel turnover is imminent. During a single operation, personnel show up, serve for as long as they are available, and then demob. There is no way of ensuring a baseline chainsaw operational capability except when built upon the availability of certain personnel as they are available, and then demob.

Prior chainsaw experience comes from varying backgrounds. We worked with everyone from firefighters and loggers to home users, novices, and arborists.

These observations helped us recognize the need to develop a training program that appealed to the greatest number of our members and remember that grey shirts come first! Our vision is to have personnel in each of our territories who are trained to the Team Rubicon standard and who understand that:

All of the wood we cut on the disaster ground can be considered “unclean.” After high water events or high wind events our wood is frequently full of debris. This will make dangerous saw/debris contact almost inevitable.

Many of the cuts we make on the disaster ground have the potential to release energy. Tension and compression are always present. Therefore, and almost by default, many of our cuts are considered technical cuts. As such, our program will train participants to understand these forces and to plan for safe operations in their presence.

INSTRUCTOR EXPECTATIONS

To be successful as a sawyer within TEAM RUBICON, we need to be clear. This course is designed to:

1) Take people with different levels of experience using chainsaws under a different standard and ensure they are acclimated with TR’s standard.

2) Take people with little to no prior experience using chainsaws and develop them into safe and proficient Sawyers.


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We expect that ALL sawyers, whether novice or experienced, to commit to being a perpetual student. The day where “you know it all” will never come. If you have had experience on saws prior to TR, we need you to understand that this curriculum represents the TR standard. Just because you have used a saw without chaps or a face shield before is irrelevant here. For your safety and for the wellbeing of our organization, those practices will not be tolerated among the ranks of TR chainsaw operators. The health and safety of Greyshirts is the first priority.



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UNIT 2 - PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)

AND GEAR

UNIT OBJECTIVES

This unit covers TR’s standards for PPE gear and the proper way to use and wear it, as well as how to conduct a ‘buddy check’ to keep your fellow Greyshirts safe. PPE stands for “Personal Protective Equipment.” In essence, PPE forms your last line of defense when working with potentially dangerous tools in dangerous environments. A chainsaw, if used poorly, can certainly be a dangerous tool. The environment we work in is, without doubt, a dangerous one. When operating a chainsaw with TEAM RUBICON, PPE must be worn in the way you are about to learn. No exceptions will be made to this rule. If you are unable to wear a helmet, for example, then simply put, you are unable to use a chainsaw on a TR operation. In this unit, we will cover the PPE and gear standards for TR chainsaw operations.

CHAPS

Chainsaw chaps are specially designed to protect a sawyer’s leg in the unlikely event that the saw strikes the sawyer. Underneath an outer layer, the chaps are made up of layers of long cut-resistant fibers. In the event that a saw strikes the chaps, the outer layer is cut through instantly. The inner fibers are then drawn in by the chain and are designed to wrap around the chain’s drive sprocket, locking it fast and stopping the chain. Chaps must come down two inches over the boots. Avoid wearing dirty, especially oil- covered, chaps. Oil binds the fibers that lock the drive sprocket and can affect the time it takes to stop the saw. Chaps are NOT designed to provide a guarantee that you will not be injured. They simply help reduce the severity of the injury. A powerful, fast-running saw may take a little longer to draw up the fibers and bind them to the drive sprocket. Bottom line: chaps do not make you impervious to cuts.

EYE-PRO WITH SIDE PROTECTION AND FACE SHIELD

At TEAM RUBICON we wear two types of eye/face protection when operating a chainsaw. The first item is regular safety glasses. A few things are worth remembering about safety glasses:

Safety glasses are always marked. Inspect your glasses for the marking “Z-87+.” When this marking is present, the glasses are tested and approved as safety glasses. The testing process involves shooting steel ball bearings at the glasses to test their reaction to impacts. Glasses that are not stamped with “Z-87+” can fracture and fail when struck. Worse yet, they can become part of the debris that then strikes you.

When using a chainsaw, seek out safety glasses that also have ample side protection. Running


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saws throw up a lot of debris; that debris bounces and can enter the eye from the side as well as from the front.

If you wear prescription glasses, take the time before you are deployed to find over-the-top safety glasses you are comfortable wearing. Test a few pairs until you find the right match for you.

FACE SHIELD

The second item is the face shield. We will show you how to mount these to a helmet. The reason we use the face shield is simple: If anything comes off the saw in the direction of your face, the face shield will take the impact, affording the sawyer more chance of focusing on controlling the saw. Both safety glasses (marked “Z-87+”) and a face shield must be worn on TR chainsaw operations. There are no exceptions to this rule.

HELMET WITH EAR DEFENDERS

Helmets must always be worn on chainsaw operations. A “widow-maker” can be dead wood or anything above the place you are cutting that could become dislodged and fall on you. You often will not be able to tell the wood/hazard is present when you inspect the worksite. Vibration from the saw as it cuts may be all it takes to bring this unseen hazard down on top of you. We will always assume that widow-makers are present and will always wear a helmet. We will show you how to mount the ear defenders to your helmet. Over time, continuous running of a chainsaw will damage your hearing. This is the reason we insist that hearing protection is worn. When operating with hearing protection, it is important that you discuss with your partner/spotter how emergency signals will be passed along. Loud noises on the disaster ground can combine to make even whistles hard to hear. Discuss emergency signals and practice them to ensure that they work while wearing ear defenders.

GLOVES

Much of the work you do while operating saws will bring you into contact with harmful substances and fluids. Gloves protect your hands from much more than just small cuts. Whenever you are on chainsaw operations, always wear gloves. High-dexterity work gloves are preferred.

FOOTWEAR

It is highly recommended that all sawyers invest in a good pair of work boots. Get yourself a sturdy pair of boots with a steel or protected toe, a reinforced shank to protect the sole, and an 8-inch-high leg to offer ample ankle support. Keep in mind, not only are you protecting your feet from saw contact and falling objects but also the rugged terrain you will likely cross. A well-fitting, high-leg boot will greatly influence the outcome of any trips or stumbles. Invest in a good pair of boots—they are more than worth the money you spend on them. When using a chainsaw, always tuck long laces into your socks. Anything that can get caught up in a chain needs to be secured and tucked away.

SCRENCH

Every saw comes with a T-shaped tool. One end is a screwdriver, the other a socket wrench. We call this tool the “scrench.” You will learn to use this tool later. For now, understand that without this tool being carried by the sawyer or spotter, you do not have correct PPE. The reason for this is simple: If this tool is left behind, sawyers


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are often tempted to avoid retrieving it order in to re-tension the chain. This will be explained in depth a little later.

WHISTLE

A whistle fits into the same category as the scrench. If it is not on your person, your chainsaw PPE is incomplete. We will go into the use of the whistle a lot more in later training.

BLOOD-STOP KIT

Both the spotter and the sawyer will wear their blood stop kit on their person. It consists of a tourniquet and compression dressings. The tourniquet is to be used in the event of amputations. Please note that, by law, the victim must begin the application of the tourniquet. The Sawyer may help apply the tourniquet, but the victim must initiate the application. The only exception to this rule is if you are a medical professional, licensed by the state in which the accident has occurred, and Advanced Life Support (ALS) is supported within your scope of practice. Only use this tool in the event of an amputation or dramatic and uncontrollable bleeding that is an immediate threat to life. Compression dressings are for moderate to serious bleeding injuries. They should be applied by a partner/spotter wearing latex gloves and using direct pressure. Sawyers and spotters will wear their blood-stop kit on their chaps belt.



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UNIT 3 - THE CHAINSAW

UNIT OBJECTIVES

This unit helps you learn about the components of the chainsaw and some of the basic functions as preview before attempting to operate one. Before you operate any saw, it is imperative that you first take the time to study the owner manual. If the manual for your saw has been lost or damaged, owner’s manuals for the full line of STIHL chainsaws can be found here: http://www.stihlusa.com/manuals/instruction-manuals. Even model differences from a single manufacturer can mean slight differences in the location or function of component parts. Take the time to read the owner’s manual. This unit is designed to assist you in identifying all of the major parts of a chainsaw and their functions.

http://www.stihlusa.com/manuals/instruction-manuals


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COMPONENT PARTS (TIP-TRIGGER)

Guide Bar: Supports and guides the saw chain. Must be the right length according to the spec on the saw.

Has a sprocket, chain groove, and oil ports.

Chain: A loop consisting of cutters, tie straps, drive links, and depth indicators.

Chain Catcher: Protects the operator if the chain comes off or breaks during operation.

Chain Sprocket Cover/Bar Nuts: Attaches clutch cover to saw and maintains chain tension.

Chain Tension Screw: Provides precise adjustments to the chain tension. Operated by Scrench.

Chain Sprocket: Toothed wheel that drives the chain.

Clutch: A device that enables the engine to spin freely at low RPMs and engages clutch at higher operation

speeds.

Bumper Spike: Also known as “felling dawgs.” Toothed stop for holding saw steady against wood and for

adding leverage to a cut.

Muffler: Reduces engine noise and vibrations. Directs exhaust away from operator. Contains spark

arrestor screen to reduce the risk of fires.

Front Handle: Provides a sure grip when handling or operating. Designed for left-hand contact.

Front Hand Guard: Protects the hand in case it slips off the handle. Activates the chain brake.

Chain Brake: Stops the rotation of the chain if activated in a kickback situation by inertia or manually by

the operator.

Anti-Vibration System: Springs and buffers designed to reduce operator fatigue.

Shroud Cover: Covers engine, air filter, and spark plug. Removed by turning spring-loaded locks with

combination wrench (scrench).

Decompression Valve: Releases compression to make starting easier. Automatically resets.

Fuel and Oil Reservoir and Caps: Holds essential fluids for the operation of the saw.

Starter Rope/Grip: Used to start the chainsaw.

Master Control Lever: Lever for starting, operating, and stopping the saw’s engine.

Throttle Trigger Lockout: Prevents a runaway saw. Must be depressed before throttle can be activated.

Also called the operator presence lever.

Throttle Trigger: Controls the speed of the engine.

Rear Handle: Support handle for the right hand located at the rear of the saw.

Rear Hand Guard: Protects the right hand in case of a chain-throwing incident.



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UNIT 4 - MAINTENANCE UNIT OBJECTIVES

Proper and consistent chainsaw maintenance is paramount to safe and effective operations. A simple example to keep in mind is this: While using a well-maintained saw with a sharp chain, you may be able to cut through a log in one minute or less, exposing you to the risks of making the cut for one minute or less. A dull chain on a poorly maintained saw may require quadruple the amount of time to cut through the same log, exposing you to the risks for quadruple the time. This unit provides detailed instruction on how to properly maintain a chainsaw.

FIELDWORK BOX/TOOL KIT

A fieldwork box should be issued with the saw. It should contain fuel, oil, scrench, a sharpening kit, 2 felling wedges, and extra chain. This box should always be located within the proximity of the operator and spotter, no more than 50 feet away.

FUEL

Chainsaws must be fueled with a 50:1 mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle oil. TEAM RUBICON recommends the use of pre- mixed, ready-to-use fuel. If pre-mixed fuel is not available, use premium 2-cycle oil and mix according to directions. Most 2- cycle oil bottles are designed to mix two and 1⁄2 gallons of fuel. It is recommended to add two bottles of oil to 5 gallons of fuel for consistent ratios. Fill smaller fuel cans from this 5-gallon container at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) for field use. Always use non-ethanol fuel.

FUEL FILTER

The fuel filter is located inside the fuel tank and should be inspected and replaced as needed.

SAW FUELING PROCEDURES

Carefully fill the saw’s fuel reservoir and replace cap securely. The fuel cap is usually located in the rear of the saw. Never fuel a hot saw. When a saw runs out of fuel in the field, let the saw cool down before refueling. This time should be used for the operator to take a break and perform any needed maintenance to the saw such as re-tensioning and sharpening the chain. Leave a chainsaw for a good 15–20 minutes (longer on hot days) to cool down before even attempting to refuel.

BAR AND CHAIN OIL

Use only designated bar and chain oil. Oil reservoir must be filled when the fuel is refilled. Oil consumption should be close to the same rate as the fuel consumption. Inspect oil ports on the bar and on the saw beneath the clutch—get used to checking this before each use of the saw.

AIR FILTER

The air filter is located beneath the shroud cover and should be cleaned daily. The saw should be put in the choke position before cleaning the filter to prevent debris from entering the engine. For field care of the air filter, remove the filter and lightly brush or knock off debris.


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CHAIN BRAKE

Inspect the chain brake to ensure that the chain does not spin when activated. If the chain brake does not function properly the saw CANNOT be used.

CHAIN CATCHER

Ensure the chain catcher is in place and not damaged. It must function properly or the saw CANNOT be used.

CLUTCH COVER

Remove the bar nuts and then remove clutch cover. Use a bristled brush and/or compressed air to clean the inside. The cover and engine case should be cleaned (weekly) to ensure proper operation of internal systems.

GUIDE BAR

The guide bar must be inspected (once per day or after dropping a saw or any kind of rough impact) for wear and damage. Bar should be straight and flat. Bar should be free from flattened or flared edges. A flat file can correct this issue. The bar should be flipped over daily to ensure even wear.

CHAIN

You must constantly inspect the chain for proper tension. If the chain starts to sag, stop the saw and re- tension the chain before continuing work. To adjust chain tension, stop the saw, loosen the bar nuts, use the scrench to tighten the adjustment screw, tighten the bar nuts, re-start the saw, and resume work.

SHARPEN CHAIN (Ensure have safety glasses and gloves on)

It is imperative to always have a well-sharpened chain. The cutting performance of the chain and your safety are dependent on it. Monitor chain performance constantly while working. If the saw cuts slowly, if the chips get smaller, if the engine bogs down, or if you strike an object, immediately stop the saw and sharpen the chain. Use the supplied sharpening kit. Ensure the correct chain file size is used, and in the correct direction. File each tooth the same number of strokes and at the same angle. TR should be using a 13/64” file for the 400 series, and a 3/16” file for the 200 series, 5/32” file for the 130/131, and 1/8” file for the 133 series. Verify that against the guide bar.

SHARPENING TECHNIQUE DEMONSTRATION


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Practice the sharpening technique for one hour. During this hour, the instructor provides instruction on:

FIELD MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Each saw must go through the following pre-check before any work can begin. These items should also be checked periodically throughout the work day.

Fuel and oil filled upon arrival to work site.

Chain must be sharp and properly tensioned.

Visual inspection of all working parts.

Saw is clean and ready for use.

Chain catcher must be intact.

Chain brake must be operational.

Air filter present and clean.

Saw starts and runs properly.

END-OF-DAY MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Saw must be taken apart and cleaned of all loose debris and inspection of components

Chain sharpened and properly tensioned.

Fill fuel and oil.

Replenish work box.

Check all PPE is present and in good condition.

Saw and field box is marked using a piece of tape to condition of saw with date and signature

DEMOBILIZATION MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Saws must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected.

Saws must be drained of all fluids.

Chain should be sharpened and properly tensioned.

Inventory and replenish work box.

PPE cleaned and stored.

Saw and field box is marked identifying the condition of saw and PPE, with a date and signature


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DAY 2 UNIT 5 - CHAINSAW OPERATIONS

UNIT OBJECTIVES

Making contact with a stone or a piece of metal can cause a catastrophic failure of a chain. The ones we use at TEAM RUBICON are built tough, however, the disaster-ground sawyer needs to be constantly on the lookout for hazards that can have a serious impact on his/her safety. This unit will walk you through the very basics of cutting wood on the disaster ground.

UNIT INTRO

This class started with a statement on the hard-charging nature of many of our members. Our people are eager to get to grips with challenges of employing potentially dangerous tools. Combine with this the dangerous environment in which we work, and we’ve got some stuff to watch out for. In the forest, a woodsman will generally be cutting “clean wood,” or wood that is free of debris. On the disaster ground we are frequently in urban areas. Take the example of a fallen oak tree. In the forest we can assume we are cutting clean wood. On the disaster ground after high wind events, we can assume that the same tree contains embedded metallic debris such as nails and screws. Grit and stones may be present after high water events. Let’s be clear: when we use a chainsaw on the disaster ground, we are not using it in the environment it was designed for. We have to use vigilance and careful scrutiny to inspect and re-inspect any wood we want to cut.

CHAINSAW KIT

Participants are introduced to the other major components that make up a chainsaw kit.

CANT HOOK

If a log can be moved safely and doing so will afford you a better position and outcome, then use the cant hook. Practice positioning the cant hook and rolling logs

POLE SAW (DEMO ONLY)

A Chainsaw Operator 1 only uses a pole saw for light overhead trimming and only under the supervision of a Chainsaw Instructor. INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION

LARGE SAW (DEMO ONLY)

The largest saws in the kit have powerful engines. As a result, the reactive forces of the saw are much more pronounced. Generally, these tools are also heavier. Our large saws have a variety of bar lengths and will be


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used on the big cuts. For now, these saws are not to be used by Chainsaw Operator 1s. When they are in use, Chainsaw Instructors will demonstrate and vocalize the steps for properly using them. INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION

CUT PLAN PROCEDURE

One of the duties of every Sawyer is to communicate intent with a chainsaw to the Lead Sawyer. The reason for this is simple: every time you use a chainsaw, you need to follow a series of safety-related steps and procedures. They can never be overlooked. Adhering to a cut plan procedure helps us establish a culture of following those safety-related steps and procedures. As a sawyer within TR, you must commit to communicating intent every time you pick up a saw. It is the role of the Lead Sawyer to ensure that you continually ask yourself the right questions. For those who have used a saw outside of TR, this will be a little difficult at first. We ask that you stick with it and support the culture of safety and professionalism we’re establishing. There are three overarching items you need to examine:

1. What are the risks? Is the wood under compression or tension? Will the cut release energy? If so, what will that release look like?

2. How will I manage them? Will I first prepare and clean my work site? Do I need to cut in a specific location to lessen the risk? How will I reduce the energy release and control it?

3. What is my safety plan? Where is my escape route? Does this job require additional safety measures? Ropes? In the event of an accident, what is my plan? Have I identified a person to call 911?

4. What is my spotter communication plan? Have you determined what and how you are going to communicate with each other the stop work signal?

The toughest question to ask is one you must ask yourself on every challenging cut: “Am I confident? Am I ready for this cut?” The sign of a good sawyer is in his/her ability to say, “This one is a touch too big for me,” and then call in for help, advice, or coaching. A modest and humble sawyer is a good sawyer. A good cut plan may be communicated verbally or jotted down on a piece of paper. The most critical component is that a communication of intent takes place from the Sawyer to the Lead Sawyer.

WORKSITE PREPARATION

Once you have communicated your intent, the next crucial step (often overlooked) is careful preparation of your worksite. Learn to take your time in doing this. You are preparing two things:

1. Worksite: An area that is clear enough for you to work and move in with relative ease and comfort, but most of all an area that is safe to work in. Clear trip hazards. Deal with any branches that could pose a problem. Get used to demanding as sterile a worksite as you can.

2. Escape Route: Always have one or more escape routes cleared. Take a minute to travel those routes and mentally prepare yourself to use them in the event of an unplanned outcome.

Do not rush to start the saw. Instead, check to ensure that you are ready, the chainsaw is ready, and the worksite is ready. Accidents are all too frequently the result of haste. Step one in becoming a safe sawyer is practicing patience and attention to detail.


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Every team member in Team Rubicon has the ability to stop work if there is an unsafe condition!


Instructor sets various cut scenarios and each participant presents a cut plan complete with site prep and emergency plan.

(Day 2) UNIT 6 - STARTING THE SAW

UNIT OBJECTIVES

Two start methods are permitted at the Sawyer Level One. The primary start method is the ground start method. Where terrain permits, this method is to be used first. The second is known as the three-point start method. The three-point start works best with a warm saw. Get used to using the ground start method for cold starts and only using the three-point method with warm saws. As you grow in confidence as a sawyer, you will adopt and use a preferred method. A good sawyer, however, practices both methods to ensure familiarity and proficiency. This unit covers the key steps and procedures associated with safely starting the chainsaw.

STOP-WORK SIGNAL

Before you even consider starting a saw, work out as a group what the signal will be to issue a “Stop Work” order. A stop-work order means just that: when the signal is given, every saw is shut down and everyone looks to the strike team leader. The stop-work order may be issued in the event of an accident or a sudden threat to safety. It can be given on an air horn, a vehicle horn, or a whistle. What is critical is that this is discussed and every member of the team understands how the stop-work command is to be given.

COLD/WARM START

A “cold” start is starting a chainsaw in very cold conditions or starting it for the first time that day. A “warm” start has nothing to do with exterior weather conditions, but refers to the process of starting a saw that has recently been run.

BUDDY/SPOTTER

Your buddy/spotter must always be present and in full PPE whenever you start your saw. The reason for this is simple: Should the unthinkable happen while you perform the start procedure, your partner needs to be ready to shut down a still-running saw. Spotter is responsible for control of the work environment around the sawyer.

LOOSE HAIR AND CLOTHING

Make sure long hair is pulled up and tied back. Avoid loose clothing. All clothing should be properly fastened. Draw strings and cords should be removed from shirts or jackets. Look for any clothing item that could potentially become entangled in the chain and remove it.

PPE/BUDDY CHECK

Finally, check each other over! One good look for any missing or poorly fitted PPE items. Your buddy checks you; you check your buddy. Never become complacent and forget this critical step!


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CARRYING THE SAW

Carry the saw with the cover on the chain if traveling over 50 feet. When walking with saw it should be carried on the right side of your body with the guide bar pointing behind you. When saw is placed on ground lay the guide bar so it is flat to the surface to avoid injuries if someone falls on the chain.

Now you are ready for the saw—but is the saw ready for you?

PRE-START CHECKLIST

Saw is clean, full of fuel and oil, and in good working condition.

The chain brake is working and engaged.

Chain catcher is present.

Chain is sharpened and properly tensioned.

Spotter is present and watching.

GROUND START PROCEDURE

1. Engage the choke: The choke is part of the master control switch. It is engaged when the switch is either all the way up or down, depending on the model. The choke must be engaged to cold- start the saw.

2. Perform a cold start: Engage the chain brake. Engage the choke. Place the saw in an approved position for starting. INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION OF GROUND START Firmly grasp the starting handle and pull. Pull several times until the saw “burps” or sputters.

3. Disengage the choke: Pull the starting handle until the saw starts. Squeeze the throttle to return the engine to idle.

4. Disengage the chain brake. INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION

5. Throw an oil line: Dip the tip of the saw over a light-colored surface until it casts a visible oil line.

6. Engage the chain brake. (instructor demonstrates)

7. Move saw to carry position. INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION

THREE-POINT START PROCEDURE (WARM START)

1. Engage the chain brake.

2. Make three points of contact with the saw and start the saw.

3. Place saw in the ready position.

4. Disengage the chain brake.

5. Throw an oil line.

6. Stop and ground the saw.


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INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION

Never Drop-Start a Chainsaw!


1. Start the saw (vocalizing cold-start procedure). 2. Demonstrate correct working position, disengage the chain brake, and throw an oil line. 3. Engage the chain brake, move the saw to the carry position, and walk ten feet toward your

buddy/spotter. 4. Then ground the saw and stop the saw.


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UNIT 7 - CUTS AND DIRECTIONAL FELLING

UNIT OBJECTIVES

Cutting wood with a chainsaw is fun. Chainsaws are powerful tools and are capable of powerful feats. This may be true, but the one thing a good sawyer needs to understand is that becoming “too familiar” with the tools and tasks can lead to complacency. In this unit, we will address the reactive forces of the saw (Push and Pull of the Bar INSTRUCTOR DEMO). You will be coached on your stance when preparing to cut. One thing we will never do is cut above shoulder height INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION. Be patient as you are coached through this section. The habits you develop here will go a long way to ensuring your safety on operations. The reason you carry the scrench as part of your PPE will also now become evident. You must continually monitor the chain’s tension and be able to adjust this tension in the field. Get used to making a tension check something you do as a matter of routine every ten minutes or so.

BUCKING AND LIMBING

“Bucking and limbing” is the name given to the process of removing branches and sectioning a downed tree. Within TR, we employ the “H” technique for this. The main reason for using this method is to ensure we always direct our cutting away from the sawyer. (INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION - The “H” technique) (Participant practice)

SPRING POLES (DEMO ONLY)

Spring poles are generally stout saplings that are bent double by a falling tree or branch. Before the tree itself can be dealt with, all spring poles must be eliminated. Cutting straight through a spring pole can have dramatic and catastrophic consequences. Over time, we will coach you in the method used to tackle these hazards. The way we do it is by lightly and slowly trimming the underside of the spring pole close to the apex of the curve. Almost shaving away the tension. (INSTRUCTOR DEMO)

As you can see, the more the instructor trims, the more pressure is released. However, the pressure release is not dramatic; it is slow and controlled.


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HANG-UPS/SEMI-FELLED TIMBER (DEMO ONLY)

On the disaster ground, this will be one of the most frequent problems we face. Trees and telephone poles frequently land and get hung up on structures. We may be called to clear these life hazards. The first thing to understand is, as a Sawyer, you will be coached at all times on these types of cuts. The Lead Sawyer will walk you through the process and set you up for the desired outcome. You must not attempt to tackle these cuts without the supervision of a Lead Sawyer. (INSTRUCTOR DEMONSTRATION: 2–3 hang-up eliminations)

TENSION RELIEF CUT

A tension relief cut is nothing more than a V- shaped cut on the top or the bottom of the log you are about to cut. It allows the wood to open up as opposed to clamping shut and pinching the bar. Whenever you cut through a log, gravity will move one or both sides of the cut. When this happens, it is very easy to “pinch” the bar of the saw or get it trapped between the now-shifted sides of the cut. The first thing we need to understand is that gravity will always cause a reaction. Learning to predict the reaction is the first step in learning to cut. Time and practice will hone this skill.

The more wood you inspect and then cut, the more accurately you will be able to predict the effect gravity will have in certain cuts.

DIRECTIONAL FELLING


PARTICIPANT PRACTICE

FACE CUT (DEMO ONLY)

Felling will always be the duty of the Lead Sawyer. However, if the conditions are deemed safe, you may be called upon to develop and practice your felling skills under a Lead Sawyer’s supervision. Site inspection is the first step. The next section covers the basics of felling as well as the required planning, preparation, cutting, and support tools. You do not need to memorize these techniques at this stage. This section is merely your introduction to the world of directional felling. Unlike felling in a forest, felling on the disaster ground often means felling in an urban setting. You must become very skilled at looking at the bigger picture. Overhead wires, snag potential, structures and vehicles, and a host of other hazards all need to be calculated into your thought process.


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Instructor discusses site prep, widow-makers, sighting line, and escape routes.

BACK CUT (DEMO ONLY)

Once the face cut is made, the next step in the felling process is the back cut.

INSTRUCTOR

DEMONSTRATION

Instructor demonstrates position of the back cut, the hinge, and use of wedges. Instructor explains in detail how to safely retreat from a moving tree.

Complete Skill Task # 8 (SAW TEAM)

1. Split into saw teams 2. Under instructor supervision, demonstrate the ability to properly inspect, plan, and execute a buck, limb, and

section of a downed tree, using a 200 series saw and a cant hook. 3. Demonstrate the ability to make relief cuts on sectioning of a downed tree. 4. Demonstrate where the kickback corner is and the risks involved. PARTICIPANT DEMONSTRATION


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UNIT 8 - COURSE WRAP-UP AND EXAMINATION Over the last 16 hours, you have had a comprehensive introduction to the world of the TR sawyer. You will now join their ranks. Part of your role is to be a champion of chainsaw safety. You will be exposed to sawyers who may not have had the training you have just gone through. It is important that you never allow yourself to be drawn into unsafe working practices. Make no mistake! Accidents happen with chainsaws, but every single one of those accidents is avoidable. Maintain your saw. Maintain your PPE and always wear it. Maintain your skills, but most of all… maintain YOUR high standards! The TRaining Shop wants to thank you for being an ambassador of safe and professional chainsaw use. Your support of this program will contribute to the safety of other volunteers and help strengthen our organization’s capacity to quickly come to the aid of those who have been impacted by disasters.


CHAINSAW OPERATOR 1 STUDENT MANUAL

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Transcript of CHAINSAW OPERATOR 1 STUDENT MANUAL