If you show up for a trail build day, chances are you won’t be using power tools, but you may be asked to help someone who IS certified to use them. Mike and Leigh take us through all the necessary safety tips for working around chainsaws and trimmers, and explain what it means to swamp for a saw operator.
This video is not meant as a substitute for in-person safety training, and it’s definitely not designed to teach chainsaw or power tool operation. Check with your land manager or owner to find out what safety requirements are in place, and be sure to follow them to the letter.
I’ve had riders go blowing by me driving a brush mower or trimmer without even slowing down. It’s terrifying. I really don’t want to do a scene from Tucker & Dale vs Evil. I picked up a Dewalt electric hedger last year that I did some mods to so it would handle the thick multiflora rose I’m up against (reinforced the blade pivot with a good piece of steel). The electric trimmer doesn’t require ear protection, so it’s much easier to hear riders and runners sneaking up on me. One thing that has really helped is to put orange cones in the middle of the trail I’m working on some distance to either side of where I’m working. I have “TRAIL WORK – SLOW” written on them, and that at least lets people know what’s expected. Yes, you can still use the trail, but go slowly. I haven’t sawn anyone’s legs off so far, and really hope to keep it that way.
Its crazy, I have had riders and hikers come right by me while running a gas powered saw.
Some folks are rather absent minded, I suppose. Good on ya for the cone zone idea. That should provide notice that work and hazards are present.
This day and age, we are dealing with folks that turn a blind eye to common Courtesy and common sense, sadly.
Nice job all!
Great video! Most osha or ansi standards specify keeping 10 feet between a saw operator and anyone else on a worksite. Keeping distance is key to safety! Also, make sure your safety glasses are Z87 rated at a minimum. Sunnies look great but when you’re getting smacked in the face by a loaded branch it’s best to have proper safety glasses. Smith makes some spectacular safety glasses that go above and beyond the ansi standards all the way to mil-spec ballistic lenses.