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Text from
the OSHA Logging Compliance Directive, CPL 2-1.22
J.
Definitions and clarifications
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7. Paragraph (e) - Hand and portable powered tools
a. Paragraph (e)(2)(i) - Chain brakes. Each chain saw placed
into initial service after February 9, 1995 must be equipped with a chain brake. In
addition, each chain saw shall meet the chain saw brake and other performance and safety
requirements of the ANSI B175.1 - 1991 "Safety Requirements for Gasoline - Powered
Chain Saws." No chain-saw kick back device shall be removed or otherwise disabled.
A chain-saw manufacturer challenged the chain-brake provision and requested the U.S.
Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit to stay the provision. The court denied the
petition for review and upheld the chain-brake provision. (Homlite v. OSHA, No. 94-2588,
Decided January 17, 1996)
b. Paragraph (e)(2)(iv) - Refueling chain saws. The final
standard has been revised to require that chain saws be fueled and started at least 10
feet from any open flame or source of ignition and fueling area. A 10-foot distance
provides adequate ventilation in both situations because outdoors, where constant air
movement dissipates vapors, it is unlikely there could be a concentration of flammable
vapors beyond 10 feet.
c. Paragraph (e)(2)(vi) - Starting chain saws. The final rule
requires that chain saws be started on the ground or where otherwise firmly supported. The
final rule has been revised to state explicitly that drop starting chain saws is
prohibited.
Nothing in the final rule prohibits an employee from standing upright when starting a
chain saw, provided that the employee has firmly supported or secured the chain saw. For
example, a chain saw operator would be in compliance if he or she rested the chain saw
firmly on a log or other stationary item and started the chain saw while standing upright.
d. Paragraph (e)(2)(xii) - Carrying chain saws. The final rule
requires chain-saws to be carried in a manner that will prevent employee contact with the
cutting chain and muffler. There are devices currently available and used in the logging
industry to prevent cuts and burns while carrying a chain saw, including leather and felt
shoulder pads. These devices are not required by the final rule.
e. Paragraph (e)(2)(xiii) - Retreating with chain saws. The
final rule has been revised to require that the chain saw be shut off or the throttle
released before the feller begins his retreat. The feller is not required to remain next
to the tree waiting for the chain saw to idle down before retreating a safe distance from
the falling tree. Rather, as soon as the feller releases the throttle, placing the machine
into idle, he should immediately move on the retreat path a safe distance from the falling
tree.
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