Chopping Tool Safety Guidelines

1.  Employees should receive instruction in proper chopping techniques and tool sharpening.

     a.  When grinding, use eye protection. 

     b.  Keep loose clothing away from moving parts.

     c.  Inspect grinding wheel for cracks and defects before using.  

     d.  Use rest when grinding, grind slowly toward cutting edge, taper properly, avoid overheating.

     e.  Use file and stone to remove burrs and rough spots.

     f.  Secure work in clamp or vice when filing.  Wear gloves.  Use file equiped with knuckle guard.

     g.  Stroke the file across the edge.  Finish edge with hand stone.

     h.  Discard and repalce tool heads that are excessively round-cornered.  Check templates.

     i.  Inspect for loose or cracked heads.

     j.  Inspect for split, crooked, warped, or splintered handles.

2.  Chopping Tool Carrying Safety.

    a.  Grasp handle close to tool head.

    b.  Hold tool with flat surface of blade vertical (parallel to leg).

    c.  Allow arm to hang naturally to side.

    d.  Carry tool on downhill for ease of discard in case of fall.

    e.  Never carry tool on sholder.

    f.  When walking with other people maintain a distance of at least ten feet.

    g.  Place an edge guard on the tool to protect its edge and the people.

    h.  Keep tools and people separated in vehicles.

3.  Tool Use Safety.

    a.  Always remove branches, underbrush, and debris that might interfer with chopping.

    b.  Keep other people away from chopping area.

    c.  Wear gloves, leather boots, and leg protection.  Stay alert.

    d.  Remove any overhanging obstructions tool may strike or hang on.

    e.  Obtain secure footing.  Position body for working with tool.

    f.  Use natural striking action.  Never chop cross-handed.

    g.  Watch for spring loading when cutting bent branches or saplings.

    h.  Try not to stand on material being cut.

    i.  Don't use chopping tools as wedges or mauls.

    j.  Don't allow two people to chop simultaneously on the same tree.

    k.  Stand on opposite side of tree when removing limbs.

    j.  Remove wood chips from blade before resuming chopping.

    k.  Keep striking head of tool perpendicular to work to prevent tool glancing.