Proper Use - Makita UC3551A Instruction Manual

6. Always keep proper footing and operate the
chain saw only when standing on fixed, secure
and level surface. Slippery or unstable surfaces
such as ladders may cause a loss of balance or
control of the chain saw.
When cutting a limb that is under tension be
7.
alert for spring back. When the tension in the
wood fibres is released the spring loaded limb may
strike the operator and/or throw the chain saw out
of control.
8. Use extreme caution when cutting brush and
saplings. The slender material may catch the saw
chain and be whipped toward you or pull you off
balance.
9. Carry the chain saw by the front handle with
the chain saw switched off and away from your
body. When transporting or storing the chain
saw always fit the guide bar cover. Proper
handling of the chain saw will reduce the likelihood
of accidental contact with the moving saw chain.
10. Follow instructions for lubricating, chain ten-
sioning and changing accessories. Improperly
tensioned or lubricated chain may either break or
increase the chance for kickback.
11. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and
grease. Greasy, oily handles are slippery causing
loss of control.
12. Cut wood only. Do not use chain saw for pur-
poses not intended. For example: do not use
chain saw for cutting plastic, masonry or non-
wood building materials. Use of the chain saw
for operations different than intended could result
in a hazardous situation.
13. Causes and operator prevention of kickback:
Kickback may occur when the nose or tip of the
guide bar touches an object, or when the wood
closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut.
Tip contact in some cases may cause a sudden
reverse reaction, kicking the guide bar up and
back towards the operator.
Pinching the saw chain along the top of the guide
bar may push the guide bar rapidly back towards
the operator.
Either of these reactions may cause you to lose
control of the saw which could result in serious
personal injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the
safety devices built into your saw. As a chain saw
user, you should take several steps to keep your
cutting jobs free from accident or injury.
Kickback is the result of tool misuse and/or incor-
rect operating procedures or conditions and can
be avoided by taking proper precautions as given
below:
— Maintain a firm grip, with thumbs and
fingers encircling the chain saw handles,
with both hands on the saw and position
your body and arm to allow you to resist
kickback forces. Kickback forces can be
controlled by the operator, if proper precau-
tions are taken. Do not let go of the chain
saw.
— Do not overreach and do not cut above
shoulder height. This helps prevent unin-
tended tip contact and enables better control
of the chain saw in unexpected situations.
— Only use replacement bars and chains
specified by the manufacturer. Incorrect
replacement bars and chains may cause
chain breakage and/or kickback.
— Follow the manufacturer's sharpening
and maintenance instructions for the saw
chain. Decreasing the depth gauge height
can lead to increased kickback.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES
1. Read the instruction manual in order to familiarize
yourself with operation of the chain saw.
2. Before using the chain saw for the first time,
arrange to have instruction in its operation. If this
is not possible, at least practice cutting round
timber on a trestle before beginning work.
3. The chain saw must not be used by children or
young persons under 18 years of age. Young
persons over 16 years of age may be exempted
from this restriction if they are undergoing training
under the supervision of an expert.
4. Working with the chain saw requires a high level of
concentration. Do not work with the saw if you are
not feeling fit and well. Carry out all work calmly
and carefully.
5. Never work under the influence of alcohol, drugs
or medication.

Proper use

1. The chain saw is intended solely for cutting wood.
Do not use it for example to cut plastic or porous
concrete.
2. Only use the chain saw for operations described in
this instruction manual. Do not, for example, use it
to trim hedges or for similar purposes.
3. The chain saw must not be used for forestry work,
i.e. for felling and limbing standing timber. The
chain saw cable does not provide the operator
with the mobility and safety required for such
work.
4. The chain saw is not intended for commercial use.
5. Do not overload the chain saw.
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