Ryobi P5452BTL Operation Manual - Page 7

PRUNING SAW SAFETY WARNINGS KICKBACK See Figures 1 - 3. ROTATIONAL KICKBACK WARNING Kickback may occur when the moving chain contacts an object at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar or when the wood closes in and pinches the saw chain in the cut. Contact at the upper portion of the tip of the guide bar can cause the chain to dig into the object and stop the chain for an instant. The result is a lightning fast, reverse reaction which kicks the guide bar up and back toward the operator. If the saw chain is pinched along the top of the guide bar, the guide bar can be driven rapidly back toward the operator. Either of these reactions can cause loss of saw control which can result in serious injury. Do not rely exclusively upon the safety devices built into the saw. As a chain saw user, you should take several steps to keep your cutting jobs free from accident or injury. Fig. 1 KICKBACK DANGER ZONE Fig. 2 n The following precautions should be followed PULL to minimize kickback: • Always grip the saw firmly with both hands. Hold the saw firmly with both hands when the unit is running. Place your right hand on the rear handle and your left hand on the front handle with your thumbs and fingers encircling the chain saw handles. A firm grip together with a stiff left arm will help you maintain control of the saw if kickback occurs. • Make sure that the area in which you are cutting is free from obstructions. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, fence, or any other obstruction that could be hit while you are operating the saw. • Always cut with the unit running at full speed. Fully squeeze the throttle trigger and maintain a steady cutting speed. • Use replacement parts such as low kickback chain and special guide bars that reduce the risks associated with rotational kickback. Use only the replacement guide bars and low kickback chains specified by the manufacturer for the saw. PUSH Fig. 3 n With a basic understanding of kickback, you can reduce or eliminate the element of surprise. Sudden surprise contributes to accidents. n Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. n Do not cut above chest height or overreach when cutting. Do not let the nose of the guide bar contact a log, branch, ground, or any other obstruction while you are operating the unit. n Follow the sharpening and maintenance instructions for the saw chain. 7 - English