Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024
Section 56-2-13 - Chain Saws13.1. Each chain saw shall be equipped with an operable chain brake which shall meet the requirements of the manufacturer.13.2. Each gasoline-powered chain saw shall be equipped with a continuous pressure throttle control system, which will stop the chain when pressure on the throttle is released.13.3. The chain saw shall be operated and adjusted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.13.4. The chain saw shall be fueled at least 10 feet (3 m) from any open flame or other source of ignition.13.5. The chain saw shall be started at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling area.13.6. The chain saw shall be started on the ground or where otherwise firmly supported. Drop starting a chain saw is prohibited.13.7. The chain saw shall be started with the chain brake engaged.13.8. The chain saw shall be held with the thumbs and fingers of both hands encircling the handles during operation unless the employer demonstrates to the director that a greater hazard is posed by keeping both hands on the chain saw in that particular situation.13.9. The chain-saw operator shall be certain of footing before starting to cut. The chain saw shall not be used in a position or at a distance that could cause the operator to become off-balance, to have insecure footing, or to relinquish a firm grip on the saw.13.10. Prior to felling any tree, the chain-saw operator shall clear away brush or other potential obstacles, which might interfere with cutting the tree or using the retreat path.13.11. The chain saw shall not be used to cut directly overhead.13.12. The chain saw shall be carried in a manner that will prevent operator contact with the cutting chain and muffler.13.13. The chain saw shall be shut off or the throttle released before the feller starts his retreat.13.14. The chain saw shall be shut down or the chain brake shall be engaged whenever a saw is carried further than 50 feet (15.2 m). The chain saw shall be shut down or the chain brake shall be engaged when a saw is carried less than 50 feet if conditions such as, but not limited to, the terrain, underbrush and slippery surfaces, may create a hazard for an employee.