Stihl MS 162 Instruction Manual - Page 21

7 Proper Techniques for Basic Bucking, Limbing, Pruning and Felling English 2 1 ► Make the first cut (1) on the underside of the branch, approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the trunk. Cut through approximately 1/4 of the diameter of the branch. This will help prevent the branch from splintering after it is cut. ► Make the second cut (2) on the top side of the branch, approximately 2 in. (5 cm) from the first cut. ► As soon as the branch starts to fall, withdraw the chain saw and let the branch fall to the ground. 7.5 Felling 7.5.1 Felling Conditions Felling is cutting down a tree. Before felling a tree, carefully consider all of the conditions that may affect the direction of fall. WARNING ■ Before starting the felling operation, make sure the saw you are using has sufficient size, power and adequate fuel to complete the fell‐ ing operation efficiently. ■ There are a number of factors that may affect and change the intended direction of fall, e.g. wind direction and speed, lean of tree, sur‐ rounding trees and obstacles, sloping ground, one-sided limb or foliage structure, wood structure, decay, snow load, etc. - To reduce the risk of severe or fatal injury to yourself or others, look for, analyze and plan for these conditions prior to begin‐ ning the cut, and be alert for a change in direction while the tree is falling. ■ Felling a tree that has a diameter greater than twice the effective cutting length of the guide bar requires use of either the sectioning felling back cut or plunge-cut method. These meth‐ ods can be extremely dangerous because they involve the use of the nose of the guide bar and can result in kickback. Only properly trained professionals should attempt these techniques. If you are inexperienced with a chain saw, plunge-cutting should not be 0000-GXX-1627-A0 attempted. Seek the help of a qualified profes‐ sional. ■ Before starting any felling operation, make sure the saw you are using has sufficient size, power and adequate fuel to complete the fell‐ ing operation. ■ Trees that are split, decayed or rotted inside or that are leaning or otherwise under tension are more likely to snap or split while being cut, causing serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders. - Always observe and be aware of the gen‐ eral condition of the tree. - Inexperienced users should never attempt to cut such trees. - Also look for broken or dead branches which could vibrate loose and fall on the operator during the felling operation. Cer‐ tain types of trees are more susceptible to this condition, such as Douglas firs. You should check with a reputable tree service if you have questions about the stability of the trees you will be cutting. - When felling on a slope, the operator should stand on the uphill side if possible. When felling: 0000-GXX-1437-A0 1 1/2 1 2 1/2 ► Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person or structure. ► Take extra precautions in the vicinity of roads, railways and power lines. Inform the police, utility company or railway authority before beginning to cut. 7.5.2 Escape Path Before making your first cut, prepare an escape path: 0000-GXX-1246-A0 B B 0458-200-8621-A 21