MS200 One Handed follow on poll

[Dean Lofthouse]

Who says it's not allowed

 

 

...and is it law

 

 

...will I get fined or locked up

 

 

"One handing" is no more dangerous than walking the dog..

 

You choose whether or not to introduce danger into chainsaw operations, that is the problem

 

The same problem occurs with normal chainsaw use, you can use one quite safely should you choose or you could stand over your saw with your face a foot away from the chain all the time, to introduce a little danger, it's your choice

[RobArb]

just found this risk hierarchy, which is printed in many things like the AA "a guide to good climbing practice" and other HSE reports.

 

at no point does it mention the using of saws in one hand as a bad practice or inherent risk.

 

 

 

This is from the CS39 assessment schedule

 

4. Demonstrate knowledge of the risk hierarchy for load bearing supplementary anchor points and use of tools in the tree

- Handsaw use is preferable to chainsaw use

- Wherever possible use load bearing supplementary anchor points to achieve a good work positioning

- When using a chainsaw or handsaw a work position must be achieved where there is no risk to the climbers ropes

- Where there is a risk of cutting the climbers ropes a load bearing supplementary anchor point must be achieved

- If there is a risk of cutting the climbers ropes with a chainsaw and no second load bearing supplementary anchor can be achieved, another system of work must be used e.g. MEWP, pole saw

 

[arbogrunt]

lets face it, we ALL cut one handed now and again. You just have to accept that the risk of cutting yourself is increased hugely whey doing so. The important thing is to know when NOT to cut one handed. Good work positioning should mean that you can keep both hands on the saw 90% of the time. Conifer hedges are another matter..everyone I know cuts and holds and throws the branches out...most of the blokes I know that have had cuts from top handle saws have had them inflicted whilst doing exactly this.