Operation Manual

4
English / USA
MS 361 C
Because a chainsaw is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool, special safety
precautions must be
observed to reduce the
risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand and
observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manual and
the safety instructions periodically.
Careless or improper use may cause
serious or fatal injury.
!Warning!
Reactive forces, including kickback, can
be dangerous. Pay special attention to
the section on reactive forces.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. All safety
precautions that are generally observed
when working with an axe or a hand saw
also apply to the operation of chainsaws.
Observe all applicable federal, state and
local safety regulations, standards and
ordinances. When using a chain saw for
logging purposes, for instance, refer to
the OSHA regulations for “logging
operations“ at 29 Code of Federal
Regulations 1910.266.
!Warning!
Do not lend or rent your power tool
without the instruction manual. Be sure
that anyone using it understands the
information contained in this manual.
!Warning!
The use of this machine may be
hazardous.The saw chain has many
sharp cutters. If the cutters contact your
flesh, they will cut you, even if the chain
is not moving. At full throttle, the chain
speed can reach 67 mph (30 m/s).
Use your chainsaw only for cutting
wooden objects. It must not be used for
any other purposes, since such misuse
may result in an accident or damage to
the machine.
!Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
!Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders
and damage to property, never let your
power tool run unattended. When it is
not in use (e.g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that
unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
chainsaws. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your instruction
manual for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
model.
Safe use of a chainsaw involves
1. the operator
2. the saw
3. the use of the saw.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
this machine when you are fatigued.
!Warning!
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any power tool can be
strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work,
check with your doctor before operating
this machine.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques