Chainsaw Safety Certification: What You Need to Know

Chainsaws are among the most dangerous power tools in use. The chain moves very fast and can cause deep cuts to the legs, arms, head or neck in a split second. A slip, a loss of footing or a single kickback is enough.

Most chainsaw injuries can be prevented with three things: a saw in good condition with working safety features, the right protective gear, and an operator who knows how the saw behaves and how to control it. Training covers all three, and it builds the habits that keep you safe when you are tired or rushed.

Provincial OHS regulations require employers to make sure workers who use chainsaws are trained and use the right protective equipment.

Other hazards include pull-in and push-back (when the chain pinches or catches and the saw is pulled or pushed suddenly), noise, vibration, flying chips, exhaust fumes in enclosed spaces, and slips and trips on uneven ground.

Chainsaw PPE is designed for this tool. Regular work pants and gloves will not stop a moving chain. The typical set includes:

Leg protection, such as chaps, is made with layers of fibre that jam the chain on contact. Once it has been cut, it must be replaced. Inspect all PPE before each use, and make sure it is the right size and type for the work you do.

Before you use any chainsaw, learn its main parts and safety features, and check them before every use:

• Chain brake: stops the chain fast, either by hand or during kickback. Test it before you start work.
• Throttle lock: stops the throttle from being squeezed by accident.
• Chain catcher: helps catch a broken or derailed chain.
• Hand guards and an anti-vibration system.
• Stop switch that works every time.
• Sharp chain with the right tension. A dull or loose chain makes kickback and pull-in more likely.

Never use a saw with a broken or missing safety feature. Tag it and report it. Basic care, such as keeping the chain sharp, checking chain oil, and cleaning the air filter, keeps the saw running smoothly and makes it easier to control.

Plan before you cut. Look over the work area first. Clear brush, rocks and debris that could trip you or catch the chain. Check for overhead hazards such as dead branches and power lines. Pick a clear escape path. Look at how the wood is lying and where it is under tension or compression, because wood under tension can spring and wood under compression can pinch the bar. Make sure other people know where you are working and stay well back.

• Start the saw safely, on the ground or held firmly, with the chain brake on. Never drop-start a saw.
• Use both hands, thumbs wrapped around the handles, and keep a firm stance.
• Watch the bar tip. Avoid cutting with the upper tip, and keep the bar away from other logs and branches.
• Do not cut above shoulder height, and stand to the side of the cutting line.
• Engage the chain brake when moving even a few steps, and stop the engine to carry the saw longer distances.
• Refuel safely: stop the engine, let it cool, refuel away from sparks, wipe spills and move away before restarting.
• Never work alone if you can avoid it, and keep others well clear of your work area.

Anyone who uses a chainsaw at work, including:

It is also a good refresher for experienced users. Commercial forestry and tree falling work need separate, specialized in-person training beyond this course.

The Gama Safety Chainsaw Safety course takes about one hour and has two parts:

• Chainsaw Safety Training Course: how a chainsaw works, its main parts and safety features, and the hazards that cause injuries, including kickback.
• PPE Requirements, Safe Handling and Operating Procedures: the PPE you need, and how to start, carry, cut, refuel and maintain a chainsaw safely.

Important: this online course is the theory part of chainsaw training. You should also complete a hands-on practical evaluation with the saw, done by your employer or a qualified evaluator, before you use a chainsaw at work.

Does it expire? There is no single national expiry date. It depends on your province and employer. Many employers ask for a refresher every 1 to 3 years.

1. Enrol in the online Chainsaw Safety course and start right away on your phone, tablet or computer.
2. Learn at your own pace. Your progress saves automatically.
3. Pass the final exam with 80% or better. Retakes are unlimited and free. Download your certificate right away, and a wallet card is mailed to you free.
4. Complete your hands-on evaluation with your employer or a qualified evaluator before using a chainsaw on the job.

The course is available in English, French, Spanish, Punjabi, Hindi, Mandarin and more, and is recognized by employers across Canada. Training a team? Volume pricing starts at 2 seats, with an admin dashboard to track progress.