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Chainsaws - Kickback

What is "kickback"?

Kickback is the term to describe the unexpected upward motion of the guide bar. Kickback occurs when the end portion of the nose of the bar (the kickback zone) strikes an object and the chain momentarily snags, or is pinched.

The Kickback Zone
Contact with the Kickback Zone

The most common and probably most violent kickback occurs when contact is made, either accidentally or intentionally, in this "kickback zone." In some cases the blade tip may move upward and back toward the operator who could suffer a very serious or fatal injury.


How can I reduce the risk of kickback?

DO

  • Select a chain saw that is equipped with kickback-reducing devices (e.g., chain brake, low kickback saw chain, reduced kickback saw chain) that are designed for the chain saw that you are using and meet standards like the CSA Standard Z62.3-2004: Chain Saw Kickback, or ANSI Standard B175.1-2012 (and A1-2014) (Outdoor Power Equipment - Internal Combustion Engine-Powered Hand-Held Chain Saws - Safety and Environmental Requirements. These devices will reduce but will not prevent kickback.
  • Watch the guide bar nose. Do not let it touch logs, branches, or the ground when saw is running.
  • Make sure the chain brake functions and adequately stops the chain. The stopping power of a chain brake can be greatly reduced by wear, or by oil, dirt or sawdust in the brake parts.
  • Cut only one piece at a time.
  • Run the saw at full power when cutting.
  • Keep the chain sharpened to specifications (e.g. correct depth and angle).
  • Match chain and bar for exact pitch and gauge.
  • Set depth gauges to manufacturer's settings.
  • Maintain correct chain tension
  • Hold the saw securely with both hands. Have one hand on the handle bar and the other on the grip or trigger.
  • Ensure that you have firm footing before starting to saw.
  • Stand to side of the cutting path of the chain saw.
  • Position yourself so that you are not near the cutting attachment when the chain saw is running.
  • Know where the bar tip is at all times.
  • Install a safety tip that covers the nose of the guide bar on the saw to prevent contact with the kickback zone. The tip must be removed for making bore cuts (pocket cuts) or for cutting wood thicker than the length of the guide bar.
  • Wear any required personal protective equipment.
  • Follow all safe use precautions when using chainsaws.
Safety Tip

DO NOT

  • Do not stand directly behind the saw.
  • Do not cut in the kickback zone.
  • Do not saw above should height.

Document last updated on September 28, 2018

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Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information.