By Tim Griffiths

This was an exciting day for me as after buying my chainsaw and appropriate Chainsaw PPE, I was keen to ensure that I was still on the right rack in its use and operation.

Once again we met at the Clubroom and spent the first hour re-capping the operation of the saw and covering the essential daily maintenance and safety checks. We also went over Comprerssion and Tension cuts and assessing how these may occur and change while cutting tree limbs both on and off the tree as well as for logs on the ground. This was convenient as during this time we had a few heavy showers.

Having completed the revision we went off to a local logging yard where there were plenty of logs to cut into firewood. We all donned our appropriate chainsaw PPE and assembled to recap the correct starting procedure. One at a time we all demonstrated this to Andrew. Once he was happy with this he split us up into groups of similar ability, each with an experienced member to keep an eye on things. He floated around the groups giving individual coaching and guidance. We all got 'stuck in' cutting the huge pile and selection of logs. We were able to practice and demonstrate the correct and safe methods for the 'up, down and plunge cuts'. Having refuelling a couple of times we went back to the Clubroom for some lunch and to do another written test.

Once again the test was of an 'open book' nature and were able to work thorough these at our own pace.

 

After attending the two day course I feel that I am now much better equipped and knowledgeable to carry out simple chainsaw operations in a safer and more efficient way. I think this is something everyone should do if they intend to use a chainsaw for any operation - especially for the folk who may have some prior experience.

Apparently we also got some Level 3 NVQ Credits. So technically we are now deemed to be competent, as we have had the appropriate training and demonstrated our practical skills but our knowledge and understanding by passing the written units of the course.