What is this document?
INDG317 provides essential guidance on safe working practices for portable, hand-held, petrol-engine chainsaws in workplace settings. Chainsaws are among the most dangerous hand-held tools, and this leaflet sets out the key requirements for employers and operators.
The guidance covers everything from operator fitness and competency through to equipment selection, maintenance, and safe working procedures for various chainsaw operations.
Who needs to read this?
- Employers whose staff use chainsaws at work
- Self-employed chainsaw operators including tree surgeons and arborists
- Forestry workers and managers overseeing woodland operations
- Grounds maintenance contractors carrying out tree work
- Farm workers using chainsaws for land management
- Construction site managers where chainsaws are used
- Anyone who controls the use of chainsaw work equipment
Key points covered
The guidance addresses comprehensive safety requirements:
Operator competency
- Chainsaw operators must be trained and competent
- Formal training and certification is expected for workplace use
- Different levels of certification apply to different operations
Risk assessment
- All chainsaw work requires risk assessment
- Specific hazards must be identified and controlled
- Emergency procedures must be in place
Personal protective equipment
- Full chainsaw PPE is mandatory
- Includes helmet with visor and hearing protection
- Chainsaw trousers or chaps with protective lining
- Chainsaw boots with protective toecap and instep
- Gloves designed for chainsaw use
Equipment selection and maintenance
- Chainsaws must be suitable for the work
- Regular maintenance and inspection is essential
- Chain brake and other safety features must work correctly
Specialist operations
- Tree felling requires additional competencies
- Work at height has specific requirements
- Lone working procedures must be in place where applicable
How this applies to you
Training and competency
Ensure all chainsaw operators:
- Have completed appropriate training for the operations they carry out
- Hold relevant certification (such as Lantra or City and Guilds)
- Are assessed as competent before working unsupervised
- Receive refresher training as needed
Common certification levels include:
- Cross-cutting and maintenance
- Felling small trees
- Felling medium trees
- Felling large trees
- Windblown and hung-up trees
- Chainsaw use from a rope and harness
Personal protective equipment
Provide and ensure use of:
- Safety helmet with integral visor and ear defenders
- Chainsaw protective trousers or leggings (Type A, B, or C depending on use)
- Chainsaw protective boots
- Chainsaw protective gloves
- High-visibility clothing where appropriate
PPE must be maintained in good condition and replaced when damaged.
Risk assessment
Before any chainsaw work, assess:
- The specific hazards of the task
- Whether the operator is competent for the work
- Escape routes for tree felling
- Proximity of other workers and the public
- Overhead hazards including power lines
- Ground conditions and slopes
- Weather conditions
Lone working
Chainsaw operators often work alone. Establish:
- Communication systems and check-in procedures
- Emergency response arrangements
- First aid provisions including trauma kits
- Limits on lone working for higher-risk operations
First aid
Due to the severity of potential injuries, ensure:
- Appropriate first aid equipment is available
- Operators are trained in emergency first aid
- Trauma dressings are carried on site
Related Safety Clarity content
- Workplace Safety Requirements - General employer duties for health and safety
Source: This page summarises HSE guidance document INDG317. For the full official guidance, visit the HSE website.