Range of VariablesThe Range of Variables explains the range of contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment may depend on the work situations available |
What OHS requirements may be relevant to this standard? | Safe systems and procedures for: operating and maintaining chainsaws hazard and risk control manual handling including lifting and carrying handling, application and storage of hazardous substances outdoor work including protection from solar radiation, dust and noise the appropriate use, maintenance and storage of personal protective equipment.It may also include systems to ensure the assessment of workers safety skills, compliance with enterprise OHS induction, and the provision of appropriate training programs. |
What types of chainsaws may be applicable to this standard? | Types may include engine or electrically operated hand-held chainsaws including top handle chainsaws and pole saws. |
What enterprise requirements may be applicable to this standard? | Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), industry standards, production schedules, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), work notes and plans, product labels, manufacturers specifications, operators' manuals, enterprise policies and procedures (including waste disposal, recycling and re-use guidelines), and supervisors oral or written instructions. |
What hazards may be associated with chainsaw operation? | Hazards may include exposure to loud noise and exhaust fumes, cutting of treated timbers, solar radiation, dust, mechanical vibration, vibration injury, struck by tree or tree limbs, kick back from saw, presence of dangerous insects and spiders, hazardous substances (fuel), the presence of bystanders, livestock and wildlife, adverse weather conditions and confined spaces. |
What personal protective equipment may be relevant to this standard? | PPE may include steel cap boots, hard hat, ear protection, protective eyewear, hearing protection, cut resistant trousers or chaps, reflective vest, gloves, helmets with face masks, and sun protection (e.g., sun hat, sunscreen). |
What information might be included in a maintenance plan? | This may include details of scheduled pre-operational checks and maintenance procedures, designated job tasks, selection of equipment, resources and materials to be used, supervisors instructions, timeframe for work completion, and reporting requirements. |
What might be involved in routine checks and maintenance procedures? | This may include pre-start checks, inspections of chainsaw body, chain guards and chain sprockets, checks of air filters and spark plugs, checks and adjustments of chain tension, oil and fuel, and the replacement of worn or faulty parts. It may also include an assessment of saw sharpness. |
What are the requirements for a safe working site? | A level and clear surface on which to cut the material, and the regular removal of off-cuts and other debris during sawing operations to maintain surfaces and worksite. |
What sawing materials may be identified and positioned? | Sawing materials may include logs and packs of timber (hardwood or softwood), and may range in size and weight. Preparation involves the safe lifting of the material to be sawed onto a clear and level surface and securing into position with chains or wedges. |
What risks may be associated with the operation of chainsaws? | This may include 'kickback' which is a sudden upward and backward movement of the saw which occurs when the tip of the bar nose makes contact with the sawing material. To prevent kickback, ensure chainsaw is fitted with an inertia-activated chain break, ensure the break mechanism is clean and operates effectively, use low-kickback chain types and avoid lowering the depth gauges too much when sharpening. Risks may also include being stuck by tree or limb, vibration injury from poorly maintained chainsaw, permanent hearing loss, cutting above shoulder height, handling the chainsaw with one hand, and fire risk as a result of fuel spillage or sparks. |
What cutting methods and procedures may be considered? | Types of cutting techniques may include bridging, swinging, boring, limbing and horizontal cuts. Procedures may involve a visual assessment of the sawing material for defects, the selection of cutting positions and patterns to minimise capping and splitting, and maximise volume and quality of recovery. |
Who might be involved in the facilitation of worksite communication? | This may include the supervisor and other workers. |
What environmental implications may be associated with the operation of chainsaws? | Negative environmental impacts may result from excessive noise and exhaust emissions, the incorrect use and disposal of maintenance debris (oils and oil containers), and hazardous substances (fuel). |
What reports may be recorded and maintained? | This may include production and tally sheets, quality forms, production sheets, mandatory or statutory inspections, maintenance outcomes, faults, malfunctions and damage details, and hazard and incident reports. |
For more information on contexts, environment and variables for training and assessment, refer to the Sector Booklet. |
|