Gorham Fire Department

Gorham Fire Department	Standard Operating Procedure #18	Chainsaws Operation
To All Fire Department Members	Approved by SOP Committee: March 21, 2000	Approved by Officers: April 11, 2000
Approved by Town Manager:	Revised:	Accepted by Members:

Purpose:

To establish a guideline to indicate the proper maintenance, training, use, and personal protective equipment needed in order to ensure the safety of the fire department personnel when operating a chainsaw or venting chainsaw.

Responsibility:

It is the responsibility of the Chief to assure that the chainsaws are kept in working order and that all member of the fire department are trained in accordance with the Standard Operating Produces.

Maintenance and Inspection:

Once a year and/or after extended use the chainsaw shall be inspected by a technician. This will insure the chainsaws are proper running order and safe to operate.

After each use the chainsaws will be inspected for chain sharpness, proper chain tension, loose parts, chain brake function, throttle trigger and shut-off switch operation, clogged air filter and lubrication hole, and wear on the bar. If any problems are found that can not be resolved immediately, take the chainsaw out of service, and report the problem. The chainsaw will be taken to a service technician for repairs.

When preparing to use a chainsaw, inspect the for chain sharpness, proper chain tension, loose parts, chain brake function, throttle trigger and shut-off switch operation, clogged air filter and lubrication hole, and wear on the bar. Start the chainsaw to insure it is running smoothly (Never drop start the chainsaw, place on ground hold rear handle down with right foot, grasp front handle firmly with left hand, and then grasp pull cord with right hand and pull.) If any problems are found that can not be resolved immediately, take the chainsaw out of service, and report the problem. The chainsaw will be taken to a service technician for repairs.

Chaps shall be inspected before and after using and taken out of service if there are any holes, cuts, or defects found.

Training:

The Firefighter I class covers the use of chainsaws, but it is important that the department prove operation manuals and chainsaw safety training for the use of chainsaw. Firefighters who do not have experience using chainsaws shall not use them until training is provided.

Emergency Scene Use:

Chainsaw will only be use to cutting trees, and shall not be used on building material.

The venting chainsaw is designed to cut into building material without damaging the saw, so it can be used for venting and overhaul.

Personal Protective Equipment:

When using the chainsaw the proper personal protective clothing shall be worn. When cutting trees in a non-hazardous area the minimum personal protective clothing shall be:

When using venting chainsaw the proper personal protective clothing shall be worn. When venting roofs or cutting building material for overhaul, SOP #1 (Personal Protective Clothing) and SOP #17 (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) shall be followed.

Buddy System:

Always work in teams with one firefighter watching for hazard that the chainsaw operator can not see while operating the chainsaw. Some of the hazard to watch for:

Conclusion:

It is for the safety of ever firefighter to keep the chainsaws in proper condition. Regular inspections, maintenance, and training of power tools can accomplish the level of safety needed during an emergency. It is essential to use the proper protective clothing whenever operating a chainsaw because of the potential of serious injury that can happen from kickback or accident contact with the moving chain. Following this standard operating procedure will help in preventing injuries that can occur from the misuse of equipment.

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