Safety Manual
38
ENGLISH
OPERATION
TETHERING
For good leverage, the tether line should be attached as high up the trunk as
possible. Use a strong rope. (Do not use nylon rope because it stretches.) Run
the rope in the planned direction of fall to a distance much greater than the
height of the tree. Tugging or jerking on the tether line can cause the tree to
sway, and fall backwards. Always maintain constant tension on the tree using a
steady pull on the rope to prevent swaying.
DANGER! During felling, if a tree starts to lean and fall in an unintended
direction, causing your saw to bind, LEAVE THE SAW! Be particularly careful
as you get away from the tree’s precarious position. Beware of the direction it
is going and do not cross the fall path. Do Not try to save the saw! The saw is
replaceable- You are not!
DANGER! HUNG TREE- When a tree gets hung on another and will not
fall, ask for help from a trained experienced woodsman or tree felling service.
This can become an extremely dangerous condition.
WARNING! Check for broken or dead branches which can fall while
cutting causing serious injury. Do not cut near buildings or electrical
wires if you do not know the direction of tree fall, nor cut at night since
you will not be able to see well, nor during bad weather such as rain,
snow, or strong winds, etc. If the tree does make contact with any utility
line, the utility company should be notied immediately. Carefully plan
your sawing operation in advance. Clear the work area. You need a clear
area all around the tree so you can have secure footing. The chain saw
operator should keep on the uphill side of the terrain as the tree is likely
to roll or slide down hill after it is felled.
Study the natural conditions that can cause the tree to fall in a particular
direction, such as:
• The wind direction and speed.
• The lean of the tree. The lean of a tree might not be apparent due to uneven
or sloping terrain.
• Use a plumb or level to determine the direction of tree lean.
• Weight and branches on one side.
• Surrounding trees and obstacles.
• Look for decay and rot. If the trunk is rotted, it can snap and fall toward the
operator.
• Make sure there is enough room for the tree to fall.
• Maintain a distance of 2-1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person or other
objects. Noise can drown out a warning call.
• Remove dirt, stones, loose bark, nails, staples, and wire from the tree where
cuts are to be made.