MAD to saw operator?

[Raven]

Soooo,,, I cannot find a definitive answer to the question of "How far should a bystander or co-worker be from a chainsaw operator?" or "What is the minimum approach distance to a sawyer with a running chainsaw?"

All standards and operator manuals I have referenced simply use some vague wording basically saying "Don't get too close", or "Maintain a safe distance".

My personal rule has been ten feet, anyone got anything more concrete?

 

[flyingsquirrel25]

For some reason I thought the ANSI Z had a concrete number. (2006)

6.3.6 - Chain-saw engines shall be started and operated only when other arborists and workers are clear of the saw.

8.7.2 - When more than one worker is limbing or bucking a tree, each shall be positioned and their duties organized so that the actions of one worker will not create a hazard for any other worker.

I wonder if the new Z addresses this? That being said I have always tried to use the 10' when possible.

 

[Tom Dunlap]

The 2012 Z is printed and available.

I don't have my copy yet but I remember talking about setting a distance of three bar lengths or some defined distance separation. Right now I can't recall what was included in the final draft.

 

[TreeCo]

I use ten feet. Heard it in an OSHA chainsaw class 15 years ago.

 

[Treespotter]

Mmmm, I don't think you can come up with a fixed minimum safety distance.
Ten feet can be sufficient when a small guy is operating a small saw, but when a long armed big guy is operating a saw with a thirty inch bar this ten feet can be a killer.
My advice? Never approach a saw operator from behind.

 

[Norm_Hall]

[ QUOTE ]
Soooo,,, I cannot find a definitive answer to the question of "How far should a bystander or co-worker be from a chainsaw operator?" or "What is the minimum approach distance to a sawyer with a running chainsaw?"


[/ QUOTE ]

I was told by Forest Apps: 2 bar lengths. Never stand directly in front of a rotating chain. Never approach an operator from behind.

 

[TLHamel]

Before you begin cutting, throw the chainsaw as far as you can. Have someone bring it back to you and count the steps as they approach. Add one. Voila!