There are standards, qualifications, equipment, procedures, and safety practices, and techniques for chainsaw operations which are set down by the USDA Forest Service in their Health and Safety Code Handbook.  You can access this handbook on the web at:  USDA Forest Service Health and Safety Code Handbook.

These guidelines are a great resource for FTA, as we develop the culture of safety.  Rather than try to reinvent the wheel, we use the USFS Health and Safety Code Handbook, as our standard for chainsaw operations, and for many other trail maintenance tasks. But for now let us focus on what it says about chainsaw operations.

FTA has decided to adopt the USFS policies for chainsaw safety as those for the entire organization.  This is being done in the interest of safety for our members.  Chainsaws are without doubt one of the most potentially dangerous tools used in trail construction and maintenance.  USFS policies offer an established and tested set of safety guidelines.

The first step in the use of a chainsaw is proper training.  All sawyers must have completed the nationally approved classroom and field training for general saw work or specialized uses as developed at the USFS Missoula Technology and Development Center.  There are several proficiency levels that have been set down by the USFS.

“A” apprentice sawyer. These sawyers have completed the nationally approved classroom and field training for general saw work (such as bucking, limbing, and the first basic steps in felling) or specialized uses (such as construction, maintenance, and fencing). Generally, they are trained at the local unit and must be supervised by a B or C level sawyer during saw work activity, which may include slashing and felling in the least complex situations.  This certification expires 3 years after the date of issue. The certifier has full authority to impose restrictions on apprentice sawyers as deemed necessary.

“B” intermediate sawyer. This level includes skilled saw operators capable of performing only those tasks as approved by a certifier and documented on the back of the certification card. During saw activities, intermediate sawyers are not allowed to field certify sawyers. Certification is restricted to “C” advanced sawyers and “C” certifiers. This certification expires 3 years from the date of issue. The certifier has full authority to impose restrictions on intermediate sawyers as deemed necessary.

“C” advanced sawyer. At this level of proficiency, advanced sawyers are approved to handle complex sawing and felling operations, including fireline construction.  They are qualified to conduct classroom and field training at the “A,” “B,” and “C” level. They are also allowed to field certify “A” and “B” level sawyers. They are not allowed to field certify at the “C” level; this certification is restricted to “C” sawyer certifiers. This certification expires 3 years from the date of issue.

“C” sawyer certification. The “C” sawyer certification level includes individuals who are currently “C” advanced sawyers and have been further trained through a formal Regional program to organize and conduct field certification sessions. They have demonstrated communication skills, the ability to transfer and relate concepts to others, and current knowledge of policy and regulations pertaining to saws and related equipment. This certification expires 3 years from the date of issue.

Once certified, a sawyer must utilize the proper Personal Protective Equipment.  This includes a Forest Service-approved hardhat, eye protection, hearing protection, appropriate gloves, long-sleeved shirt, chainsaw chaps, and boots.  The boots must be 8” high, heavy duty leather, water repellant or waterproof, lace-up, with non-skid soles.  Whew, what a mouthful.  In addition to the Personal Protective Equipment, some general equipment is required as well, including a first aid kit (Type IV), a fire extinguisher, a chainsaw wrench, a chain file with handle and guard, approved safety container for fuel, chain and bar oil container, proper wedges, and a single-bit axe or maul (3-5 pounds).

Of course I’ve left out the most important piece of hardware, the chainsaw.  The chainsaw must have a throttle interlock, falling and bucking spikes, an anti-vibration system, a fully functional chain brake, a proper bar length for the job, a filed and maintained chain, and bow bars with top and bottom chain guards and stingers.

This may seem slightly overwhelming, but as responsible trail builders and maintainers it is our duty to abide by and encourage others to take these requirements to heart.  The safety of our family is and will continue to be our greatest concern.  Realizing that many of us are not currently chainsaw trained, FNST Trail Manager, Michelle Mitchell and Trail Resource Coordinator, Deb Blick, arrange for several chaisaw training sessions every year..

I hope this article has answered any questions regarding the chainsaw operation regulations.  Given the safety concerns created along much of the trail due to the hurricane damage in 2005, this program couldn’t have come out at a better time. We have been working diligently to implement the new safety program, and we appreciate the willingness and dedication of the FTA membership in getting this program off the ground. 

Dave Rohe, Wilderness First Responder