Preventing Chainsaw Kickback – Guide to Safety and Prevention

Chainsaw kickback is akin to a sleeping giant. It lies dormant, unnoticed until it awakens with a jolt, often leading to disastrous consequences. But what exactly triggers this giant? It’s the sudden deceleration or stoppage of the chainsaw’s chain. Imagine driving at 60 miles per hour and hitting an immovable object. The abrupt halt sends a shockwave through the vehicle, and the chainsaw is no different.

Therefore, analyzing the influence of actual wood properties on chainsaw kickback is vital for enhancing safety. This research not only fills a knowledge gap but also helps improve chainsaw operators’ skills by understanding variations in wood properties, an important preventive measure.

Chainsaw Kickback: Complete Guide

Kickback can happen without warning, in less than 1⁄10 of a second. It can do serious damage if you’re not prepared. Be careful when researching this topic because you might end up accidentally glancing at a photo of the aftermath of a kickback accident. I promise you, it’s not something you want to see. Don’t worry, you won’t find disturbing photos in this article.

Chainsaw kickback is a rapid, uncontrolled upward and backward motion of the chainsaw, typically caused when the moving chain at the tip of the guide bar, also known as the “kickback zone,” hits an object or is pinched. This sudden stop of the chain’s movement results in a forceful reaction that can propel the chainsaw back towards the operator, potentially leading to serious injuries if not properly managed.

What causes chainsaw kickback?

It’s usually when the tip of the chainsaw bar hits an object, or when the wood closes in and pinches the chain in the cut.

This can cause the saw to jerk back towards the operator in a fraction of a second.

Preventing chainsaw kickback requires a combination of proper technique, safety gear, and the right equipment.

Always hold the chainsaw firmly with both hands, maintain a stable stance, and avoid cutting with the tip of the saw whenever possible.

But the devil, as they say, is in the details. Chainsaw kickback isn’t a singular event but can be categorized into two types: rotational and linear. Rotational kickback is the more common and dangerous of the two. Chainsaw kickback is typically categorized into two types: rotational and linear kickback.

Rotational vs Linear Kickback

Rotational kickback, the more common and dangerous of the two, occurs when the upper quadrant of the chainsaw bar noseᅳoften referred to as the kickback zoneᅳmakes contact with an object like a log or branch.

The chain’s motion coupled with the resistance of the object causes the chainsaw to rotate rapidly upwards and backwards towards the operator.

On the other hand, linear kickback happens when the chain on the bottom part of the bar gets pinched or abruptly halted during a cut, causing the chainsaw to push straight back towards the operator.

While not as violent as rotational kickback, linear kickback can still lead to loss of control and potential injuries.

Preventing chainsaw kickback is a trifecta of proper technique, safety gear, and the right equipment.

When operating a chainsaw, always hold it firmly with both hands and maintain a stable stance.

Avoid cutting with the tip of the saw whenever possible, especially the upper quadrant, to reduce the risk of rotational kickback.

For linear kickback, ensure the chainsaw is running at full speed before starting a cut and avoid situations where the chain could get pinched.

Preventing Chainsaw Kickback: Technique, Safety Gear, and Equipment

Preventing chainsaw kickback is akin to a three-legged stool, each leg representing proper technique, safety gear, and the right equipment. Remove one, and the stool topples over.

When operating a chainsaw, always hold it firmly with both hands and maintain a stable stance. Avoid cutting with the tip of the saw whenever possible, especially the upper quadrant, to reduce the risk of rotational kickback. For linear kickback, ensure the chainsaw is running at full speed before starting a cut and avoid situations where the chain could get pinched.

Safety gear is not an accessory—it’s a necessity. Chainsaw chaps, gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots can make the difference between a close call and a trip to the emergency room.

As for equipment, not all chainsaws are created equal. Some models come with advanced safety features designed to reduce kickback. These include low-kickback chains, chain brakes, and anti-vibration systems.

Kickback is not exclusive to chainsaws. Other saws, such as circular saws and table saws, can also experience kickback if the blade becomes pinched or encounters resistance. In these instances, the blade can either halt or lift the workpiece, propelling it back towards the operator. Similarly, grinders can kick back if the disc becomes pinched or overloaded.

VIDEO | See what Chainsaw Kickback looks like…

The Stark Reality of Chainsaw Kickback: Injury Statistics

The danger of chainsaw kickback isn’t just theoretical. It’s a grim reality reflected in injury statistics. A study published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), estimated 36,000 chainsaw-related injuries annually in the United States between 2009 and 2013. The majority of these injuries were to the upper extremities, followed by the lower extremities, head, and neck.

Another study published in the International Journal of Injury Control and Safety Promotion found that chainsaw injuries often resulted in hospitalization, with a median hospital stay of 3 days. The study also found that chainsaw injuries were more common in rural areas, likely due to increased chainsaw use for tree felling and firewood collection.

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VIDEO | Understanding Chainsaw Safety Features, including kickback

Preventing Chainsaw Kickback: Technique, Safety Gear, and Equipment

Preventing chainsaw kickback is akin to a three-legged stool, each leg representing proper technique, safety gear, and the right equipment. Remove one, and the stool topples over.

When operating a chainsaw, always hold it firmly with both hands and maintain a stable stance. Avoid cutting with the tip of the saw whenever possible, especially the upper quadrant, to reduce the risk of rotational kickback. For linear kickback, ensure the chainsaw is running at full speed before starting a cut and avoid situations where the chain could get pinched.

Safety gear is not an accessory—it’s a necessity. Chainsaw chaps, gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots can make the difference between a close call and a trip to the emergency room.

As for equipment, not all chainsaws are created equal. Some models come with advanced safety features designed to reduce kickback. These include low-kickback chains, chain brakes, and anti-vibration systems.

Standard Chain Brake vs Inertia Chain Brake

The chain brake, a vital safety feature in chainsaws, is a marvel of mechanical engineering and physics. It’s a silent guardian, always on standby, ready to spring into action when things go awry. The chain brake is a testament to human ingenuity, a perfect blend of practicality and safety. Yet, despite its importance, it remains a mystery to many. Let’s unravel this mystery, shall we?

Chain brakes come in two types: standard and inertia-activated. The difference between the two is not just in the name but in the way they function. The standard chain brake is manually activated by the operator’s hand hitting the hand guard in a forward motion. The inertia-activated chain brake, on the other hand, works on the principles of physics, specifically inertia.

Inertia, as you may recall from your physics classes, is the resistance of any physical object to any change in its velocity. In the context of a chainsaw, when a kickback occurs, the chainsaw’s rapid movement is suddenly halted. This abrupt stop triggers the inertia-activated chain brake.

Inside the chainsaw, a mechanical marvel unfolds. An inertial mass, held in place by a spring, is jolted forward due to the sudden stop. This movement activates a spring mechanism connected to a brake band. The brake band, a metal loop, tightens around the clutch drum, which is connected to the chain sprocket.

The tightening of the brake band creates a frictional force, halting the rotation of the drum and, consequently, the chain. This all happens in a fraction of a second, faster than you can say “inertia-activated chain brake”. It’s a beautiful symphony of physics and engineering, all in the service of safety.

So, is an inertia-activated chain brake worth the extra cost? The answer lies in the value you place on safety and efficiency. While a cheaper chainsaw might seem like a good deal for occasional use, remember that accidents can happen even with infrequent use. An inertia-activated chain brake provides an added layer of safety, potentially preventing serious injuries.

In the end, the choice between a standard and an inertia-activated chain brake will depend on your specific needs, budget, and comfort level with the tool. But remember, understanding the mechanics of your chainsaw not only helps you make an informed buying decision but also allows you to operate it safely and efficiently. After all, knowledge is power.

Chainsaw Safety Features to Consider

Chainsaws, from the most basic to the high-end models, come equipped with a variety of safety features designed to protect the user. Here are some common safety features you’ll find across different chainsaw models:

Standard Features:

1. Chain Brake: This is a standard feature on most chainsaws. It stops the chain almost instantly when a sudden movement (like a kickback) is detected, or it can be manually activated by the operator’s hand in reaction to a problem.
2. Low-Kickback Chain and Bar: These are designed to reduce the risk of kickback. The chain’s design includes a series of safety tie straps and drive links that effectively limit the force of any kickback. The bar has a small radius tip which reduces the size of the kickback danger zone.
3. Chain Catcher: This feature is designed to catch the chain if it derails or breaks, preventing it from flying back towards the operator.
4. Throttle Lock: This feature prevents accidental throttle engagement, which can lead to unintentional chainsaw operation.
5. Right-Hand Guard: This guard protects the right hand in case the chain breaks or derails.
6. Bumper Spikes: Also known as felling dogs, these spikes provide stability during cutting, reducing the chance of the chainsaw slipping and causing injury.
7. Anti-Vibration System: This feature reduces the vibration of the chainsaw, making it more comfortable to use and reducing the risk of vibration-related injuries over time.
8. Safety Throttle: This feature requires two separate actions to engage the throttle, reducing the chance of accidental throttle engagement.

Pro-Grade Chainsaw Safety Features

Higher-end, professional-grade chainsaws often come with additional safety features not found on cheaper models. These include:

1. Inertia-Activated Chain Brake: This advanced feature can detect a sudden change in motion (like during a kickback) and immediately stop the chain, even if the operator’s hand doesn’t hit the brake handle.
2. Adjustable Oil Pump: This allows the operator to control the chain lubrication according to the cutting conditions, ensuring optimal operation and reducing the risk of chain breakage or derailment.
3. Heated Handles: While not directly a safety feature, heated handles can increase comfort and reduce fatigue in cold conditions, allowing for better control and safer operation.
4. Quick-Stop Super Chain Brake (Q): Found on some STIHL models, this feature stops the chain in fractions of a second, providing an additional layer of safety.
5. Tool-Free Chain Tensioning: This feature allows for quick and easy chain tension adjustments without the need for additional tools, reducing the risk of operating the chainsaw with a loose chain.

Remember, these safety features are not a substitute for proper chainsaw use and safety practices, but they can provide an additional layer of protection.

Wear Proper Safety Gear

Safety gear is not an accessory—it’s a necessity. Chainsaw chaps, gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy boots can make the difference between a close call and a trip to the emergency room. It’s like a seatbelt; you hope you never need it, but you’ll be glad it’s there if you do.

As for equipment, not all chainsaws are created equal. Some models, like those from Makita, come with advanced safety features designed to reduce kickback. These include low-kickback chains, chain brakes, and anti-vibration systems. It’s like choosing a car with airbags and anti-lock brakes; you’re investing in your safety.

Operating a chainsaw, while necessary for many outdoor tasks, is not without its risks. Chainsaw kickback is a significant hazard that can lead to severe injuries. Therefore, understanding chainsaw safety and investing in the right safety gear is paramount. It’s like learning to swim before diving into the deep end; you need to be prepared before you start.

A chainsaw safety helmet is a must-have piece of equipment. It protects your head from falling debris and the impact of kickback. Some helmets also come with a face shield and earmuffs, providing additional protection for your face and ears. It’s like a hard hat, face shield, and ear protection all in one.

Safety glasses or goggles protect your eyes from flying wood chips and dust. When a chainsaw kicks back, it can throw debris in unpredictable directions, and your eyes are particularly vulnerable. It’s like a windshield for your eyes; it keeps the road ahead clear.

Cut-resistant gloves not only provide a better grip on the chainsaw but also protect your hands from cuts. In the event of a kickback, your hands are often the first line of defense, so ensuring they’re well-protected is crucial. It’s like having a second skin; it protects you without getting in the way.

Chainsaw chaps or pants are made from cut-resistant material and can protect your legs from cuts. If a kickback occurs and the chainsaw comes into contact with your lower body, these chaps or pants can prevent the chain from cutting into your skin. It’s like wearing armor; it provides protection without sacrificing mobility.

Sturdy boots with non-slip soles can provide a stable footing and protect your feet from falling objects. Chainsaw work often involves dealing with unstable or slippery surfaces. It’s like having four-wheel drive for your feet; it keeps you grounded no matter the terrain.

A chainsaw safety jacket provides additional protection for your upper body. These jackets are made from cut-resistant material and can provide crucial protection in the event of a kickback. It’s like a shield; it provides an extra layer of defense.

Remember, no piece of safety gear can provide 100% protection, but each one significantly reduces the risk of severe injury. It’s also important to remember that safety gear is just one part of chainsaw safety. Proper chainsaw handling, maintenance, and operation are equally, if not more, important in preventing accidents like kickback. It’s like a three-legged stool; remove one leg, and the whole thing topples over.

Choosing the right chainsaw can also make a difference. Gas, cordless, or corded-electric – does it matter? In terms of kickback, not so much. It’s more about the design of the chainsaw and the operator’s handling. But remember, a heavier chainsaw can be harder to control if kickback occurs.

The Science of Kickback: A Deeper Dive into the Physics

Chainsaw kickback is a phenomenon that has been studied extensively, but not in its entirety. The majority of the kinetic energy during kickback is consumed in the creation of a kerf, or cut, with only a fraction causing the chainsaw to recoil. However, the influence of different wood types on kickback, a factor that can vary significantly in real-world scenarios, has been largely unexplored.

This gap in knowledge is significant, as wood properties such as density and hardness, which differ among species, could potentially impact kickback behavior. Therefore, investigating how these real-world variations in wood properties affect chainsaw kickback is not only a novel contribution to our understanding of this phenomenon, but also a crucial step towards enhancing chainsaw safety. This knowledge could serve as a vital preventive measure, equipping chainsaw operators with the insights needed to navigate the risks associated with different wood types.

The science of chainsaw kickback is surprising when you begin to look deeper into the phenomenon. I want to share with you some key points from a 2015 study:

This report provides a wealth of information on kickback and the first study that looks at the science of kickback. The study delves into the intricate details of chainsaw operation, revealing how various factors can influence the kickback effect, a common and potentially dangerous occurrence when operating a chainsaw.

Let me remind you that, Kickback occurs when the moving chain at the tip of the guide bar of a chainsaw comes into contact with an object, or is pinched, causing a rapid reverse reaction. This violent reaction can propel the chainsaw upwards and backwards towards the operator, leading to serious injuries if not properly managed. Understanding the factors that influence this kickback effect will help you mitigate the risks and inform how you make decisions when using a chainsaw.

One of the key findings of the study is the relationship between the surface radius in contact with the guide bar tip and the kickback angle. The tests showed that as the surface radius in contact with the guide bar tip increases, so does the kickback angle. This suggests that the size of the object being cut can significantly influence the severity of a potential kickback.

Humidity also plays a role in the kickback effect. The study found that within a humidity range of 20–60%, an increase in this parameter caused an increase in the chainsaw kickback angle. This indicates that environmental conditions, such as the level of moisture in the air, can affect the behavior of a chainsaw during operation.

The type of wood being cut is another critical factor that influences kickback. The study found that regardless of the species of wood tested, cutting resistance was greatest for kerf arrangement 2, which had the smallest kickback angles. This suggests that the physical properties of the wood, such as its hardness and grain structure, can affect the likelihood and severity of kickback.

The tests yielded large differences in the angles of chainsaw kickback, ranging from 15° to 52°. The greatest kickback angles occurred for spruce samples and the lowest for oak samples. For beech and pine samples, comparable chainsaw kickback angles were obtained.

Kickback risk of portable chainsaws while cutting wood of different properties: laboratory tests and deductions

The study concludes that in order to reduce the risk of chainsaw kickback, it is necessary for the operator to account for the properties of the wood to be cut, which may vary when using a chainsaw in an open area. This highlights the importance of understanding the material being worked with, as well as the operating conditions, in order to safely use a chainsaw.

The science of chainsaw kickback is a complex interplay of physical factors, including the size and type of the object being cut, the environmental conditions, and the properties of the wood. By understanding these factors, operators can take steps to reduce the risk of kickback, improving the safety and effectiveness of chainsaw use. This study provides valuable insights into these factors, contributing to our understanding of this important aspect of chainsaw operation.

Summary of Key Findings of Study

• When cutting spruce wood logs, heightened vigilance is required due to the substantial kickback angle that results from the saw chain’s cutting links snagging the wood and decelerating abruptly.
• The likelihood of kickback is at its lowest when slicing wood across log fibers; this risk escalates when the wood is cut along the fibers of the log.
• Sawing through frozen wood logs is the safest type of wood to cut. The variations in their structure do not significantly influence the kickback phenomenon.
• When dealing with wood that has high humidity, extra caution is warranted due to the increased kickback risk.
• Maintaining the efficiency of the chain brake is crucial. The brake not only halts the chain during a kickback but also reduces the kickback angle by dissipating the kickback energy within the chainsaw’s mechanisms.
• The risk of kickback escalates with the diameter of wood logs cut across fibers. The highest risk of kickback occurs when the tips of the guide bar come into contact with a flat wood surface.

Tips on How to Avoid Chainsaw Kickback

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Book Recommendation : Homeowner’s Complete Guide to the Chainsaw : A Chainsaw Pro Shows You How to Safely and Confidently Handle Everything from Trimming Branches and Felling Trees to Splitting and Stacking Wood

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Additional Resources | Chainsaw Kickback & Safety

For more information on chainsaw kickback, have a look at these resources below:

• Operating a chainsaw safely (University of Missouri)
• Chainsaw Safety Features (Wikipedia)
• Chain Saw Kickback Explained: Learn How to Avoid The Danger (Oregon)
• Chainsaw Safety : Understanding Rotational Kickback (Tree Care Industry Association)
• STIHL Safety Manual  (PDF document)
• Study : Kickback risk of portable chainsaws while cutting wood of different properties: laboratory tests and deductions

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Safer Chainsaw: WORX JawSaw

Consider the WORX WG320. This eliminates all the dangers of kickback. If you only need to cut branches less than 4″ then this is an excellent alternative to a conventional chainsaw. Read our review.