Start the Chain Saw on Firm Support

Read aloud

A chain saw can move before the cut ever begins. Drop-starting—holding the saw with one hand while pulling the starter with the other—reduces control and puts the moving chain near the operator's legs and body. A rushed start also makes it easier to miss poor footing, a loose chain, or a person entering the area.

Before starting, inspect the saw according to the manufacturer's instructions. Confirm the chain, handles, guards, throttle control, and chain brake are in serviceable condition. Move the required distance from the fueling location and clear people from the immediate area. Place the saw on the ground or another firm support, engage the chain brake, secure the saw as trained, and use the approved starting method.

Once it starts, maintain control and verify that the chain does not continue driving when the throttle is released. If a control, guard, or brake does not work, shut the saw down and tag it out under company procedure. Operating a saw aloft, felling, storm-damaged tree work, and cutting wood under tension require specific training and planning. This short talk does not qualify anyone for those tasks.

Scenario

A worker carries a saw from the truck and prepares to drop-start it beside a brush pile. A trained operator stops the start, clears stable ground, confirms the brake is engaged, and uses the manufacturer's approved method.

Supervisor follow-up

Observe the next routine start by each authorized operator and correct unsafe starting methods. Confirm that manuals, inspections, PPE, and task-specific qualifications are current.

Session and source notes

Suggested session: 3–5 minutes including discussion. OSHA Fact Sheet — Working Safely with Chainsaws — https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/CHAINSAWS.pdf. It recommends firm support, an engaged chain brake, secure footing, and operation within the worker's skill level.

Show the crew

With the saw off, cool, and unable to start, have an authorized trainer identify firm support, the chain brake, the controls, and the safe body position. Do not start the saw during the talk.