If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tree?

Marc_H

Marc_H

Location
Denver, Colorado
In section 6.3.5 of the Z it states "Drop-starting a chain saw is prohibited." I could not find any exceptions to this rule not even the mention of drop-starting with the saw outside the bucket that was in the past versions. So how on earth are you suppose to start the saw?
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

Section 6.3.4 "Secure footing shall be maintained when starting the chain saw." How do you manage that while suspended?
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

[ QUOTE ]
You can secure it between your legs and pull it to start it.

[/ QUOTE ] I can think of a few situations where that would be hard to do such as when using a larger saw on a spar. (while still maintaing secure footing)
 
I do find it difficult to "properly" start a saw in tight positions or while balancing on a limb, etc. However, it is possible, even by holding the saw in an extended or rigid arm while pulling the starter cord.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

I've never understood why you're not supposed to drop start the saw even if you have the chainbrake engaged.

I can't remember the last time I didn't drop start my saw while in a tree. It seems like any other way requires too much contortion, and I can't really see any benefit. I do always engage the brake before starting, though.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

Drop starting is when the saw moves and the starter handle is stationary. The way that is recommended in order to comply with the Z is to hold the saw still with a stiff arm and pull the rope. By doing this the saw is much less likely to jump around when it starts. Of course, setting the chain brake is necessary. This is subtle but it does make starting the saw safer.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

My understanding of the starting issue is that we are looking for people to have control of the saw when they start it. Drop starting does not allow for control of the saw. The key is locking the elbow of the arm that is holding the saw. This can be done from the ground, in a tree or from the bucket, with any saw.

ANSI Z133.1 -2006

“6.3.5 When starting a chain saw, the operator shall hold the saw firmly in place on the ground or otherwise support the saw a manner that minimizes movement of the saw when pulling the starter handle. The chain saw shall be started with the chain brake engaged, on saws so equipped. Drop-starting a chain saw is prohibited.”

Interesting that this discussion has come up now as there was just an accident posted where the person was drop starting the saw, without the chain brake on, and was injured.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

Ok, but with that accident, it is more likely the result of the chain brake not being on than drop starting? No?
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Kind of like if a driver going 30 mph has an open beer in the car and gets T-boned by a minivan running a red light going 80, you can be sure that accident will be reported as the fault of the open beer
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Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

In that case, either setting the chain brake or properly starting it could have prevented the accident. Both are required by the Z and reduce risk, so why wouldn't you?
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

It is quite likely the same accident would have happened with or without drop starting, correct?
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

[ QUOTE ]
I've never understood why you're not supposed to drop start the saw even if you have the chainbrake engaged.

I can't remember the last time I didn't drop start my saw while in a tree. It seems like any other way requires too much contortion, and I can't really see any benefit. I do always engage the brake before starting, though.

[/ QUOTE ]


Leon took the words right outta my mouth.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

No, a proper start would have meant that the operator would have been in control of the saw.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

Yes, but without the chain brake on, chain spins, operator looses control, and gets cut despite not drop starting. Thus, the chain brake is the pivotal decision, no?
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

Here, with an 066, if I lean over my right side, hang the saw out into space, engage the chain brake, and drop start, where pray tell, can an accident happen?

There is nothing for the saw to come in contact with.
 

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Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

I think you can adequately control a smaller saw when you drop start. Just because a saw is in motion doesn't mean it's uncontrollable.

The chain brake is a key safety feature that's so easy to use, there's no excuse for not engaging it whenever you aren't cutting... if you want to be safe.

Still, I don't really drop start in the tree, I hold the saw stiff arm and pull.

The Z is a great thing, but it's no substitute for judgement and experience.
 
Re: If you follow the Z how do start a saw in a tr

up a tree my starting technique, chainbrake on, hold saw in right hand and cord in left hand, drop saw and pull cord, maybe a blip of throttle. hold saw in both hands, remove chainbrake and blip throttle to make sure the saw is good. then i either reapply the chainbrake or cut what ever i need a running saw for.

for all teh folk who say get it started and sent up. what if the starter switch is poked off by a stick or the saw cuts out??

Jamie
 
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